DIY 3w LED grow light v2.0

Since I had the space for another grow setup I decided to build another grow light. I had some things I wanted to a bit differently from my other led grow light, so this was the perfect time to get cracking on version 2.0.

Parts list

My other parts list can be followed, but I decided to up the blue ratio, and added a few 6500k white LEDs to the mix. The heatsink is also smaller and the total LED count is 53.

I also decided to focus more on using the more efficient 620-630nm reds and 460-470nm blues in stead of the 660-670/445-450nm red/blues. There are a couple of reasons for it, but mainly because the higher efficiency leds are cheaper, output considerably more light per watt and because of that are probably just as well suited, or maybe even better (more light, right?).

I decided to go with the same type of heatsink as in my previous build, but opting for a considerably more dense layout, hopefully with more even light.

As you can see I just used libreoffice calc (similar to microsoft excel) to plan the layout. Each row represents a u channel aluminum profile.

My rationale for adding the white leds is providing a little extra light in other frequencies that plants use less of, but may (or may not) benefit from. Main reason is probably that I had the lights on hand so I figured why the hell not? I’ve grown aquarium plants with these exact LEDs with extremely good results before.

Here’s what the layout looks like when lit up with 60 degree lenses.

It’s ridiculously bright and hurts your eyes.

And here’s the back side of the heatsink, showing wiring and the fan.

If anyone has questions or comments about the build then by all means please ask in the comments.