Secret Lighting SL-830 “GHOST” UV/IR LED Grow Light Review

Looking for a high-performance grow light to take your setup to the next level? The Secret Lighting SL-830, also known as the “GHOST,” might just be the one. Packed with advanced features like UV and IR wavelengths, adjustable spectrum controls, and solid build quality, this light is built for serious growers who want to maximize their plants' potential. Let’s dive into why the SL-830 stands out.

Unboxing and Setup

When you open the box, the SL-830 UV/IR LED Grow Light is ready to go. It includes a 10-foot power cord, a 10-foot control cable, a power supply, and wire mounting hardware—everything you need for a smooth setup. Its tri-fold design makes it easy to handle: just unfold it, lock the frame, and hang it 12 to 24 inches above your plants, depending on how much coverage and intensity you’re aiming for. Measuring 43.3” x 43.3” x 3.1”, it’s perfectly sized for spaces like 4x4 or 5x5 grow tents, racks, or even open rooms.

Spectrum and Diodes

The SL-830 comes with a full-spectrum bright white light enhanced by 660nm deep red diodes and two key extras: UV (385nm) and Infrared (730nm) wavelengths. This makes it versatile for all stages of growth, especially the flowering phase when intensity really matters.

One of its best features is the multi-channel dimming system. Using the onboard dials, you can easily adjust the intensity of the full spectrum, UV, and IR channels independently in 25% increments. This adjustable spectrum gives you full control to tailor the light to your plants' specific needs.

Performance and Efficiency

The SL-830 GHOST doesn’t just perform—it excels. With a light output of 2374 µmol/S and a PAR efficacy of 2.86 µmol/J, it’s one of the most efficient options on the market. At full power, the fixture draws 830 watts according to the specs, but real-world tests showed 847 watts at 112V with separate power draws for each channel: UV: 37.7W, IR: 28.5W, and full spectrum: 782W. Plus, it’s passively cooled, so there’s no need to worry about noisy fans. This light is built to last, with a 50,000-hour diode lifetime at Q90, meaning it’ll maintain at least 90% of its original output even after years of use. On top of that, it’s DLC Hort listed, ETL certified, and IP65 wet-rated, so you know it’s durable and safe.

Advanced Control Options

If you want even more control, pairing the SL-830 with the optional Secret Lighting Controller is a game-changer. This add-on lets you adjust the UV, IR, and full spectrum outputs with precision and even program on/off schedules or sunrise/sunset effects. For example, you can activate UV light during the day for a few hours or trigger IR after lights-out to help your plants transition to their dark phase faster. Managing multiple lights? No problem. The controller can handle up to 250 fixtures, and if you’re using a third-party 0-10V system, the Secret Lighting Adapt makes integration seamless.

Performance Insights

The PAR maps for the SL-830 show strong intensity and excellent uniformity, especially when used in a grow tent or with multiple fixtures in a larger setup. While the test results were measured in an open space, performance improves even further in a controlled environment like a 4x4 or 5x5 tent.

Final Thoughts

The Secret Lighting SL-830 “GHOST” UV/IR LED Grow Light is a standout choice for growers who want precise control and top-notch performance. With its adjustable spectrum, independent UV and IR controls, and rugged design, it’s a perfect fit for both home and commercial setups. Whether you’re working in a 4x4 tent or a larger grow room, this light is a worthwhile investment, especially for flowering-heavy grows. If the SL-830 isn’t quite right for you, check out the SL-760 or SL-680 Mega for smaller spaces, or go big with the SL-1000 for maximum intensity.

Ready to upgrade your grow? The Secret Lighting SL-830 has what it takes to deliver impressive results.

Happy growing!