So I have just started up my new lights... and boy oh boy is the ballast hot. Much hotter than my 400w MH. I don't think I could put a figure on it for more than a sec. Is this normal ?
Maybe a fire suppression system is in order? check out this link -- http://www.atlantishydroponics.com/SUNLIGHT-SUPPLY-Flame-Defender-Fire-Extinguisher-264-lb12-KG-4957
With no air circulation my 1000 watt coil over magnetic ballast runs at 112 deg F. It helps to have either a small fan blowing on it or use the intake from your cooling fan to your hood.