Have you ever heard of a light ballast? Alight ballast regulatesthe flow of current into a fluorescent light bulb. It is important because it provides sufficient voltage to start the fluorescent lamps. Without a ballast to limit current, a fluorescent lamp connected directly to a high voltage power source would rapidly increase its current draw, meaning that the lamp would overheat and burn out within seconds…
Are Light Ballasts Necessary for LED Lights?
All fluorescenttubes need ballaststo operate. Contrary to popular belief, not all LEDs do.Unlike fluorescent tubes,LED tubes don’trequire a ballastto regulate current.LEDs use a driver, which comes in a variety of sizes and available options. For retrofit purposes, manufacturers have come up with a couple different ways of dealing with the unnecessary ballasts. Ultimately, these solutions include bypassing the existing ballast, removing it, or working with it.
Signs of a Problem
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.
You can easily mistake problems with your light ballast for actual problems with your light bulbs. If your fluorescent light fixture is 15 years or older, then you may need to replace it.The most common signs of trouble include changing colors, buzzing, and dimming lights. Also, look for a delayed start, low light output, or inconsistent lighting levels. If you notice that your ballast has a swollen casing or burn marks, then it may be damaged.
Tim Kyle Electric, Heating & Cooling can Help!
If your light ballast needs to be replaced, then get the help of a commercial and residential electrical service in Elkridge, MD. Contact Tim Kyle Electric, Heating & Cooling for your service needs. No job is too small. We give 100% to every light bulb change, just as we do to a remodeling or rewiring project. At Tim Kyle Electric, Heating & Cooling, we use only high-quality, contractor-grade materials.
