What's the diff between raising or lowering the height of the lights versus lower the dimmer switch to control the amount of light the plants are getting?
The long and short of it is that your light disperses/defuses within inches.
So if you can dim your lights you can put the light closer and increase you efficientcy by using less electricity and still putting the photons on the plant.
I don't have a dimmer so I have to run full blast at a higher level.
Also, your LEDs have a life span and running at full runs that life down faster.
Underdriven LEDs can last many time longer than expected VS full power.
Another advantage is the lower heat output.
To properly dial it in, you will need a par meter, you could use a lux meter but it will not be as accurate.
The long and short of it is that your light disperses/defuses within inches.
So if you can dim your lights you can put the light closer and increase you efficientcy by using less electricity and still putting the photons on the plant.
I don't have a dimmer so I have to run full blast at a higher level.
Also, your LEDs have a life span and running at full runs that life down faster.
Underdriven LEDs can last many time longer than expected VS full power.
Another advantage is the lower heat output.
To properly dial it in, you will need a par meter, you could use a lux meter but it will not be as accurate.
Good Growing