Replies

1. 
   maddog3 | Jul 13, 2005 01:32am | #1

   mostly "a" , the same is true with .... just about everything,
   try building your car with parts. if you buy a new ballast be sure to match it with the right lamps and not the existing ones,there could be a difference.

   "
2. 
   4Lorn1 | Jul 13, 2005 10:34am | #2

   Replacing the whole fixture is usually the most economical solution in terms of both time and money.

   There are a few things you can check before going that far:

   Be sure the ground is good. Older ballasts get weaker and become more dependent on a good ground being present. Of course an older ballast will eventually need replacement but tightening the ground connections can often buy you another year or two.

   Also try replacing both lamp at the same time. Wouldn't be the first time that someone assumes the ballast is bad because neither lamp works by itself. Most late model fixtures are not this way but some older ones are.

   Also look for a starter. Usually a small aluminum cylinder. Some older units use them and the starter is usually cheaper than a new lamp. and a lot cheaper than a new fixture.

   Also check the tombstones to see that they are making connection and that the wiring is still connected. A slight tug on the wire will make sure. If a wire comes out stuff it back in until the tab grabs. these are push-in connections. OK because they carry such a small current.

   Once you have tried all that get you a decent fixture as a replacement. Avoid 'shop' lights unless you don't care about the noise, cheesy construction and the likely need to replace it in a few years. They aren't a bad deal for a shed or over a workbench but for indoor use in a living space they leave a lot to be desired.

1. 
   edwardh1 | Jul 13, 2005 12:48pm | #3

   thnaks any idea what the difference btw residential lights and commercial are- cases of commercial look stronger

3. 
   frenchy | Jul 13, 2005 01:39pm | #4

   Wain,

     The ballast makes or breaks a florescent light.  Most lights have really cheap and cheesy ballests the great ones are really quiet and efficient..

     You can replace the cheap and cheesy bulbs with good quality full spectrum lights but replacing the ballast is usually another matter..  The stamped metal that makes up the fixtures seldom has any real value or thought behind it but if you have one that is well designed it may be worth your time to replace only the ballast and bulbs..

     Regarding bulbs  Don't for a minute think that all bulbs are alike!

     Look at the lumens given and you'll be amazed at how much differance there is between a cheesy cheap bulb and the better ones.. In addition the better bulbs last years longer than the cheap ones do.  Finally the most expensive bulbs are full spectrum bulbs,   ones that give off true light.    I honestly used to sell full spectrun high lumen output bulbs to customers that cost $20.00 each!  That was over 15 years ago and the people I sold them to still have those bulbs and still make positive comments about the quality of the light. 

     Cheap and cheesy ballasts sometimes can't even fire them so if you buy a fixture it's worth your time to buy great bulbs and great ballests..