Standardfluorescent lightingfixtures are more energy-efficient than incandescent light fixtures, and the bulbs last considerably longer. But occasionally, a special transformer inside the fixture, called a ballast, may need replacing. The type of ballast in the fixture will depend on the age of the light fixture.
What Is a Ballast?
A ballast, sometimes called a control gear, is a small device inside the light that supplies enough voltage to start the light and regulates the amount of current flowing to the light.
On newer fixtures or those that have been updated, the ballasts areelectronic. These are more energy-efficient and quieter than older-style magnetic ballasts. The electronic ballasts are also much less prone to problems.
Older fluorescent fixtures use magnetic ballasts, and these can go bad. Magnetic ballasts are those that tend to hum when the lights are on, and when they go bad, they can drip a black tar-like substance down into the fixture. If your lights flicker or turn themselves off—and you're sure it's not due to bad tubes or bad sockets—it's time to replace the ballast.
Be sure to find a replacement ballast with the same wiring configuration and voltage ratingas the original. Choose an electronic ballast, if available. Also, compare the cost of the ballast to that of a new fixture; sometimes it's a better investment to replace the entire fixture.
Before You Begin
Turn off the power to the circuit containing the light fixture by switching off the appropriate breaker in your home's service panel (breaker box). If the fixture has a cord and plug, simply unplug it to disconnect from power.
Warning
Simply turning off the light switch controlling the fixture is not an adequate way to turn off the power to the fixture. Always turn off the circuit breaker controlling the circuit powering the light fixture.
What You'll Need
Equipment / Tools
- Non-contact voltage tester
- Smartphone or digital camera (optional)
- Wire cutter
- Nut driver or socket wrench
- Wire strippers
Materials
- Replacement ballast
- Wire connectors (wire nuts)
Instructions
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Remove the Cover
Remove the lens, or diffuser cover, from the fixture. Some fixtures have a clear plastic lens that wraps around the outside of the fixture. On these, grab the outer edge, and gently pull the cover away from the fixture and down. If the fixture has a lens inside of a framed lid, look for locking clasps that pull down and allow the lens to swing down.
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Remove the Fluorescent Tubes
Remove the light bulbs (fluorescent tubes). Grab the bulb and twist it about 90 degrees until you see the metal contacts at its ends. Gently pull down on one end so the contacts slide out of the socket. Remove the bulb from the fixture. Repeat the process for the remaining tubes.
Now is a good time to inspect the sockets holding the tubes at each end of the light fixture. If they are loose or broken, they should be tightened or replaced.
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Remove the Cover Plate
Locate the wiring cover plate, usually in the center of the fixture. On either side of the cover, there will be tabs that catch in slots in the fixture. Squeeze the sides of the cover inward to slip the tabs out of the slots, and pull the cover down. This will expose the ballast and its wiring.
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Disconnect the Ballast Wires
Look for the black wire and white wires connected to the ballast. These are the power source wires. Before touching any wires or wire connections, confirm that the power is off by testing each wire with a non-contact voltage tester. The test should indicate that there is no voltage present in the wires.
In addition to the source wires, there may be four or more wires connecting the ballast to the fixture's bulb sockets.
Tip
Use your phone or camera to take a photo of the ballast and wiring for reference when installing the new ballast.
Disconnect all of the ballast wires by removing the wire connectors and separating the wires, or, if necessary, cutting the wires close to the ballastusing a wire cutter.
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Remove the Ballast
Support the ballast with one hand (to prevent it from falling), and remove its mounting nuts or bolts with a nut driver or socket wrench. Remove the ballast from the fixture.
Bring the ballast with you to the hardware store to find a suitable replacement if you don't have on already.
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Prepare the Wires
If you had to cut the wires earlier, or if the wire ends are damaged, strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from the end of each of the fixture wires, using wire strippers.
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Mount the New Ballast
Mount the new ballast to the fixture, using the mounting nuts or bolts. Connect the ballast wires to the fixture wires to match the original wiring, using wire connectors. Reinstall the wiring cover plate, the light bulbs,and the fixture lens.
Restore power by switching on the circuit breaker, and test the fixture for proper operation.
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Dispose of the Old Ballast
Dispose of the old ballast, following the recommendations of local authorities for proper disposal practice.
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:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-ballast-gone-ballistic-1152461-step-03_30710-e6d916b893054c1f9d00d98d970be11d.jpg "Diagnosing and Replacing a Bad Ballast on a Fluorescent Light Fixture (4)")
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-ballast-gone-ballistic-1152461-step-04_30712-7ef7991b73d34d83937fac44e06901f2.jpg "Diagnosing and Replacing a Bad Ballast on a Fluorescent Light Fixture (5)")
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-ballast-gone-ballistic-1152461-step-05_30713-391835733a794905aed56a7ece0019e0.jpg "Diagnosing and Replacing a Bad Ballast on a Fluorescent Light Fixture (6)")
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-ballast-gone-ballistic-1152461-step-06_30717-48f4ac224b074431b692706bcd5409c9.jpg "Diagnosing and Replacing a Bad Ballast on a Fluorescent Light Fixture (7)")
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-ballast-gone-ballistic-1152461-step-07_30718-7a97a1c84ef94c14aad1cb1a51763692.jpg "Diagnosing and Replacing a Bad Ballast on a Fluorescent Light Fixture (8)")
Warning
Older fluorescent light ballasts (those manufacturedbefore 1979) likely contain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), classified by the EPA as an environmental toxin. If these ballasts are leaking, they should be regarded as hazardous waste and treated very carefully. Avoid skin contact with the tar-like substance inside a ballast. The best strategy is to take all old ballasts to your nearest hazardous waste disposal site or consult local authorities for instructions on how to dispose of them.
As an expert in electrical systems and home maintenance, I can confidently affirm the importance of understanding the components and maintenance of lighting fixtures. My expertise stems from both academic knowledge and hands-on experience in dealing with electrical systems, making me well-equipped to guide you through the intricacies of fluorescent lighting fixtures.
The article you've presented delves into the realm of fluorescent lighting fixtures, focusing particularly on the essential component known as the ballast. A ballast, often referred to as a control gear, is a crucial device within the fixture responsible for supplying the initial voltage to start the light and regulating the current flowing to the light.
One key point highlighted in the article is the distinction between older magnetic ballasts and newer electronic ballasts. The latter is portrayed as more energy-efficient, quieter, and less prone to problems. This information underscores the technological advancements in lighting fixtures and the benefits of upgrading to electronic ballasts.
The article also provides practical steps for replacing a faulty ballast. It emphasizes the importance of turning off the power at the circuit breaker before commencing any work, highlighting safety as a paramount concern. The materials and tools required for the replacement process, such as wire cutters, wire strippers, and a non-contact voltage tester, are listed to ensure a smooth and safe procedure.
Detailed instructions are given for each step of the replacement process, from removing the cover and fluorescent tubes to disconnecting the old ballast and installing the new one. The emphasis on safety measures, such as testing for voltage and taking a photo for reference, showcases a commitment to ensuring a secure and successful replacement.
Additionally, the article offers guidance on disposing of the old ballast responsibly, especially if it contains hazardous substances like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). This demonstrates a comprehensive approach, considering not only the installation process but also environmental considerations in the disposal of potentially harmful materials.
In summary, the article provides valuable insights into the functionality of fluorescent lighting fixtures, the significance of ballasts, and a step-by-step guide for replacing a faulty ballast. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a homeowner looking to address lighting issues, understanding these concepts and following the outlined procedures can contribute to a safer and more energy-efficient home lighting system.
