How to Troubleshoot and Repair Fluorescent Light Fixtures
- Shut off power to the fixture. Do this by turning off power at the main circuit breaker. ...
- Remove the Diffuser and Cover Plate. To access the parts of the fixture, you'll need to remove the diffuser, usually done by pressing lightly on the sides of ...
- Disconnect the Sockets. The end of each tube is connected to a socket that is attached to the fixture with screws or, in some cases, snap-in hardware.
- Remove the Old Ballast. The old ballast will be attached to the body of the fixture with screws or nuts. ...
- Replace the New Ballast. Attach the new ballast to the fixture using the same method and fasteners as the old one employed. ...
- Reassemble the fixture. Reinstall the sockets securely and then replace the cover plate. ...
Why are my fluorescent lights not working sometimes?
- Flickering.
- Buzzing.
- Delayed start.
- Low output.
- Inconsistent lighting levels.
- Switch to an electronic ballast, keep lamp.
- Switch to an electronic ballast, switch to a T8 fluorescent.
Why would a fluorescent light stop working?
Like other lighting fixtures, fluorescent light fixtures sometimes work improperly. Aside from a burnt tube, other factors, such as a worn starter and loose or oxidized electrical contacts, can contribute to a fluorescent light not working properly.
How do you replace a fluorescent light fixture?
where consumers can install lighting elements such as LEDs, incandescent bulbs or fluorescent bulbs. All fixtures have a fixture body and one or more lamps. The lamp is attached to the socket for easy replacement. Fixtures require an electrical connection ...
Why did my fluorescent light stop working?
Why did my fluorescent light stop working?
- Then disconnect the electricity.
- If you are working on a light, we recommend that you cut off the power at the breaker to prevent unintentional electricity being delivered to the light.
- The bulbs should be removed.
- Removing the metal barrier that protects the ballast is necessary.
- Check to see what kind of ballast is installed in your light fixture.
Can fluorescent tube be repaired?
Fluorescent bulbs designed to replace incandescent bulbs in standard fixtures, such as in recessed lights or table lamps, have all the same features of a fluorescent fixture. Alas, they cannot be repaired... they must be replaced if they become defective.
How do you fix a fluorescent light that won't turn on?
If a fluorescent tube neither lights nor flickers when switched on, first check to see that the fixture is plugged in and that no fuse has blown or circuit breaker has tripped. If this does not help, try wiggling the tube gently in its sockets by rocking it back and forth and from side to side.
Can a fluorescent light ballast be repaired?
If you can change out a light switch or outlet you can definitely replace an old ballast that doesn't work. As I said in the beginning, you'll save yourself $75 to $90 doing this fix yourself. Years ago I paid our electrician to do a similar fix at a rental and this is how much the fee was.
How do you tell if it's the ballast or the bulb?
Take out your current bulbs and replace them with the new bulbs. If the bulbs fail to light up, then 9 out of 10 times the ballast is culprit. You could also try using a multimeter set to measure resistance.
How can you tell if a ballast is bad in a fluorescent light?
If your fluorescent lighting is displaying any of the signs below, it could be a symptom of a bad ballast:Flickering. ... Buzzing. ... Delayed start. ... Low output. ... Inconsistent lighting levels. ... Switch to an electronic ballast, keep lamp. ... Switch to an electronic ballast, switch to a T8 fluorescent.More items...•
How do you tell if your fluorescent fixture needs a new bulb or just a starter?
The older the fluorescent tube is and the older the fluorescent starter is, the less efficient they are at igniting. A tube that takes more than a few seconds to start-up is a clear indicator that the tube and starter may need replacing.
How do you fix a dead ballast?
2:077:23How to fix "ANY" fluorescent Light | Ballast Replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe can cut any wires that are holding the ballast in place. And once we've done this we can go aheadMoreWe can cut any wires that are holding the ballast in place. And once we've done this we can go ahead and remove the ballast. From the lighting fixture. Guys once you have the bottles removed.
How much does it cost to replace a ballast in a fluorescent light?
A replacement ballast costs about $10-25 depending on capacity and brand. The bite is that an electrician trip charge (which includes 30 or 60 minutes work) is going to be $75-150 probably - for about 5 minutes work on each light fixture.
How do you check a ballast?
To measure it, set your digital multimeter to around a thousand ohms resistance setting. Connect the black leads to the white ground wire on your ballast. Afterward, test every other wire with the red lead. When you do this test, a good ballast will return an “open-loop” or max resistance.
Can you put LED fluorescent bulbs in a regular fluorescent fixture?
You have fluorescent tube lights in your home or business already, and you're wondering if you can pop LED tubes in these fixtures or if you'll need to change out the fixtures for something designed for LED. Good news! You can use LED tubes in your existing fixtures!
How long do ballasts last?
12 to 15 yearsAccording to the Certified Ballast Manufacturers Association, the average magnetic ballast lasts about 75,000 hours, or 12 to 15 years with normal use. The optimum economic life of a fluorescent lighting system with magnetic ballasts is usually about 15 years.
What causes a ballast to go bad?
Ballast failure is often caused by the surrounding environment—mainly heat and moisture. When it's too hot or too cold, a ballast can burn or fail to start your lamps. Heat, along with continuous condensation inside an electronic ballast, can cause corrosion over time.
Are ballasts repairable?
While simply swapping burned out bulbs in an existing ballast is deemed “ballast repair” by many – and can offer advantages in longevity and energy savings – sometimes this simple “fix” is not enough.
How long do ballasts last?
12 to 15 yearsAccording to the Certified Ballast Manufacturers Association, the average magnetic ballast lasts about 75,000 hours, or 12 to 15 years with normal use. The optimum economic life of a fluorescent lighting system with magnetic ballasts is usually about 15 years.
How do you change a ballast without turning off power?
Remove the wire nut from one of the power wires and carefully strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from the end, making sure not to touch the end. Hold the ballast wire next to this wire with the stripped ends parallel but not touching. Quickly slip on the wire nut and screw onto the ends.
When should I replace my ballast?
The ballast takes in electricity and then regulates current to the bulbs. A typical ballast will generally last about 20 years, but cold environments and bad bulbs can decrease this lifespan significantly. You can get a new ballast at a hardware store or home center and install it in about 10 minutes.
How to troubleshoot a fluorescent light?
Troubleshooting a Fluorescent Light 1 Fixture does not light. Check for power and test to see if the bulb is seated properly in the sockets. Next, replace the tube or tubes. If the new tubes do not light, use a multimeter or voltage detector (at the switch and the sockets) to confirm that the fixture is getting power. If power is confirmed, try replacing the starter (see above), if your fixture has one. The last step is to try replacing the ballast. 2 Tube flickers: First, check to make sure the tube is securely seated in the sockets. Next, inspect the tube to make sure it is not burned out (indicated by darkening at the ends). If you have a multimeter tool, you can also check it for continuity. If replacing the tube does not correct the flickering, replace the starter. If flickering still persists, replace the ballast. As a last resort, replace the fixture. 3 Fixture hums or buzzes: Replace the ballast (see "How to Replace a Fluorescent Ballast," above).
What is the cover plate on a fluorescent light?
Inside the fluorescent fixture, a cover plate protects a special transformer, called a ballast, which has preattached wires for hooking up to your electrical supply. The ballast passes 120‑volt household current to the fixture's sockets, to which the tubes are connected. The sockets transfer power to metal pins that extend into the tube.
How long does a fluorescent light bulb last?
They are relatively inexpensive to replace and should last 10 to 20 years, at least.
What is a diffuser in a light fixture?
In most fixtures, a diffuser protects the fluorescent tube and softens the light. Fluorescent lights are normally hardwired in the ceiling, often in recessed fixtures called troffers.
What to do if new tube does not light?
If the new tubes do not light, use a multimeter or voltage detector (at the switch and the sockets) to confirm that the fixture is getting power. If power is confirmed, try replacing the starter (see above), if your fixture has one. The last step is to try replacing the ballast.
Why is my light fixture not lighting?
Replacing Fluorescent Tubes. A burnt-out lamp is the most common reason any light fixture does not light. A fluorescent tube that is failed or failing usually has darkened areas near one or both ends of the tube. To replace, remove the old tube and bring it to the hardware store.
How do fluorescent tubes work?
In the latter, the filament is electrified and provides high resistance to the current, which causes the filament to glow inside a confined glass globe. This creates light, but also a lot of heat.
What can go wrong with fluorescent lights?
You may need to learn about fluorescent tube replacement, starter replacement, ballast replacement, or socket replacement.
Why does my fluorescent light bulb glow dimly?
If the light still does not work, try replacing the fluorescent lighting starter (see below), then the ballast (see below). If the lamp glows dimly, the cause is either a defective tube or starter.
How does a fluorescent light fixture work?
A fluorescent lighting fixture converts electricity into light by making gas inside a phosphor-lined tube glow. The fluorescent fixture is either wired into the house electrical system or plugged into a nearby receptacle.
What does a starter do when a fixture is turned on?
When the fixture is turned on, more electricity is needed than during normal operation, so a starter tells the ballast to boost the voltage. Once running, the starter turns off and the ballast maintains the voltage to a lower operating level.
What is ballast in fluorescent?
A ballast is the most expensive component in a fluorescent lighting fixture. If it requires replacement, check the price of a new fixture; it may be less expensive. Because the ballast is a wire transformer you may be able to recycle it as metal.
What happens if fluorescent light flickers?
If the light flickers, the tube may be burning out, or the starter or ballast may be defective. If the fluorescent light repeatedly flashes on and off, the tube or the starter may be defective.
Why does my fluorescent light keep flashing?
If the fluorescent light repeatedly flashes on and off , the tube or the starter may be defective. If the socket doesn’t firmly hold the tube, first make sure that the pins are straight. If the pins are not straight, the socket may need replacing.
What to do if fluorescent light bulb doesn't work?
If only one end is dark, turn the bulb end-for-end. If the tube is new and these fixes don’t work, you may have to replace the starter or ballast. A fluorescent light doesn’t work right when the bulb begins to fail.
Why does my fluorescent light hum?
If the sound seems too loud–or if you can smell electrical burning–shut off the power. The ballast is probably either the wrong type, improperly installed, or defective. Replace it or call an electrician.
Why does my old tube blink?
This problem may also occur because of poor contact between the pins at the ends of a tube and the tube holders.
How to replace a ballast?
You can replace a ballast or tube holder if you’re fairly familiar with wiring. 1 Turn off the power to the circuit. 2 Remove the tube and the cover plate that conceals the workings. 3 Disconnect or cut the wires to the tube holder or ballast and remove. 4 Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the wires.
Do fluorescent lights have starters?
Although newer fluorescent fixtures have built-in starters or no starters at all, most older lights have an easy-to-change, visible starter. It is a small, silvery cylinder that plugs into one of the tube holders.
What is a fluorescent lamp?
A fluorescent lamp is a “gaseous discharge” light source . Fluorescent light is produced by passing an electric arc between tungsten cathodes in a neon tube filled with a very low pressure mercury vapor (about 0.3 atm) and an inert gas such as argon, neon, or krypton.
How does a fluorescent light work?
Let's look at just how a fluorescent lamp works in more detail. Fluorescent lamps have two electrical requirements. Start-up voltage and operating voltage. To start the lamp, a high voltage surge is needed to establish an arc in the mercury vapor between the lamp filaments at each end of the lamp tube.
What to call if your lights are flickering?
In Canada or the U.S. call 911. In Mexico call 066. [Click to enlarge any image] A fluorescent light fixture may be the only electrical device that is flickering, for any of several reasons we will explain below. Other causes of flickering lights are very dangerous.
What to do if your electrical panel is not working?
If you cannot safely access your electrical panel to turn off dangerous circuits or components, leave the building and call your local emergency services.
Why do lights flicker?
While some causes of flickering lights may be normal and harmless, such as flickering in certain types of light bulbs, many others indicate a dangerous condition, risking fire, shock, injury or worse.
What is the purpose of inert gases in a mercury tube?
The inert gases (instead of air that contains oxygen) help prevent oxidation or combustion of the mercury inside the tube. This radiant energy causes the phosphor coating on the inside of the tube to “fluoresce,” converting the ultraviolet light (invisible to the human eye) into visible light.
Is mercury in fluorescent bulbs?
Mercury is present in the lamp in both the phosphor powder and in the vapor. Fluorescent lamps are more energy efficient than incandescent light bulbs of an equivalent brightness because more of the energy input is converted to usable light and less is converted to heat.
How to stop fluorescent lights from flickering?
One way to eliminate the problem of dim or flickering fluorescent lights that are controlled by a motion detector is to have the motion detector trigger a small 120 volt control relay, and have the light fixture controlled through the contacts of the control relay, not the motion detector.
What happens if a fluorescent bulb burns out?
If a fluorescent lamp burn out while in the socket it may also burn out the ballast, and if that is the case then a new ballast may be needed. Also, check to see if there is a lamp starter which looks like a small round silver can about 1/2 inch in diameter and about 1 inch long.
What factors affect fluorescent light fixtures?
The factors that affect a fluorescent light fixture are basically the lamps and the ballast but if the lamps are allowed to turn dark and burn out in the sockets then the ballast may need to be replaced. Be sure the lamp pins are fully seated into the sockets and that the light fixtures are well grounded. Shine On!
How long does a T5 fluorescent lamp last?
A quality brand name standard T5 fluorescent lamp is rated up to 30,000 hours of life based on 12 hours of usage after a single start. Keep in mind that all lamps are not the same, and an off brand lamp of lesser quality may have a lower life span, and the same goes for the ballasts.
When replacing a ballast, should you replace all of the lamps?
When you replace a ballast always replace all of the lamps and start fresh. Lamps are much less expensive that a ballast, and besides, you don’t have to worry about lamps for a while. A Bad Ballast. As indicated above, if replacing a ballast make sure it is intended for the exact lamps that are being used.
Can you force a light fixture to be grounded?
Never force a lamp. No Ground Wire. Fluorescent lights require a ground wire from the electrical circuit to be attached to the metal frame of the light fixture, and the grounded metal reflector must be mounted within 1/2 inch of the lamps.
What is the color of the wire on an instant start ballast?
One end of the light may have a wire joining the two sockets together. This wire is usually yellow. All of the wires on this end will need to be joined together. This instant start ballast doesn't need to heat the filaments in the tubes so only one ballast wire (the red one on this ballast) will need to be connected to all of these wires
What wires are on the other end of a light fixture?
On the other end of the fixture one socket is wired with blue wires and the other socket is wired with red wires. Both red socket wires need to be connected to one of the blue ballast wires, and both blue socket wires need to be connected to the remaining blue ballast wire. Ask Question.
Does Home Depot have a warranty on fluorescent lights?
Fluorescent lights from places like Home Depot look good and seem like a real bargain but the ballasts inside don't last. The lights come with a warranty but removing the light and returning it about once a year isn't worth the trouble.
Step 1: Disclaimer
Electricity is dangerous, don't use the information in this instructable if don't know your way around it. Disconnect your home main switch before doing anything. I take no responsibility for any damage to person or property or death. Use this information at your own risk. Compact fluorescent lamps are dangerous.
Step 2: First Repair Attempt
I disassembled one of the fixtures and took it to my workshop. I looked at the parts, and it was very simple, just an electronic ballast and some wiring.
Step 3: Second Repair Attemp
I disassembled the electronic ballast, and saw several ill-looking capacitors and resistors, so I went to another electronic store and bought new ones and replaced the old ones with them. It didn't work, so I started googling for electronic ballast in order to learn how they work, in order to repair them.
Step 4: This Is the Good One
First I went for the 32 W tube electronic ballast, so I bought the most similar CFL I found (at the dollar store), wich was a 30 W. I took it to my workshop and disassembled it by sawing it and levering with a screwdriver.
Step 5: Get the Electronic Ballast From the CFL
The electronic ballast is connected to the CFL by 6 wires, 4 to the tube and 2 to the base. Cut them all, but leave the base ones as long as possible since we will use them later
Step 6: Preparing the Electronic Ballast for the New Connections
The four wires that went to the fluorescent tube are rolled around four pins in the PCB. Desolder and withdraw the pins. Strip the endings of the other two wires.
Step 7: First Connections
We are going to use the connectors from the old electronic ballast. Take the old electronic ballast. In one of its sides you will see four wires. These wires are equivalent to the ones in the ballast from the CFL. Now we have to pay a look at the PCB of the ballasts.