Reflectors, also known as reflective films or liners, are another essential piece of equipment when it comes to maximizing the efficiency of your indoor grow lighting. In order to enhance your indoor garden’s lighting system to it’s full potential, your unit will consist of:
Overhead reflectors increase the lighting’s coverage area. Image via Miami Hydro.
A reflector is needed to mount your grow lights in. They can be placed around the room, increasing the effectiveness of each HID bulb, while reducing the number of lights you actually need for your indoor garden.
There are grow light reflectors for every type of indoor gardener. Whether you’re a beginner, hobbyist, or professional grower. Reflector hoods come in all sizes and shapes available for every type of garden. Reflector hoods come in two styles:
1. Air cool-able: include glass shields with fittings to connect ductwork for cooling the lamps and cooling tubes.
2. Open air: include Wing and Umbrella styles.
Air cooled reflectors allow you to maintain a precise temperature in your garden preventing the climate from getting too hot. Pair the reflectors with inline fans for cooling, ducting to direct the air, bulbs to grow your plants, and ballasts (required) to power your bulbs.
Foylon: a spun polyester fabric reinforced with foil laminate. Foylon is resistant to most solutions, won’t tear or fade, and can be wiped clean. Slightly more expensive but its durability will more than make up for its cost.
Mylar: reflective polyester film. Not quite as durable as the foylon, but is still fairly rugged.
Elastomere paint: rubberized roofing paint with 90% reflection. Good for growboxes. Mildew resistant. Highly reflective.
White/Black poly: useful if you are setting up a temporary grow room or don’t want to damage the walls. Poly is easily cleaned. Ensures your dark cycle remains dark. If this plastic is put too close to the light, it will obviously melt.
What Not To Do: Do not use a mirror. Mirrors actually absorb light.
You may decide to purchase a light meter to measure your light directly.
You can purchase all-in-one packages or individual components from your indoor gardening supply store or online. Check out:
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