Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - flourescent light won't start

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yudamann
07-20-07, 05:59 PM
I recently replaced the bulbs in my dual lamp 48" ceiling fixture after about 5 years of use as they would not turn on completely [strike]. Things were fine for a couple of months, then the same thing occurred. I rotated the bulbs in the lamp holders and they worked fine, once. Then, the same thing. I can wiggle [highly scientific term] them in the holder and they strike fine for one or 2 times, then the same thing happens. Could 2 month old bulbs be bad already [they are like-new bright after the wiggle], or could this be a bad ballast? How do you test the ballast?

racraft
07-20-07, 06:06 PM
The bulbs are not likely bad (yet) unless they were the wrong type of bulb. The connectors for the bulbs might be the problem.

Usually it is cheaper to replace the fixture than to repair it. Keep that in mind when you start shopping for replacement parts.
chandler
07-21-07, 06:05 AM
Keep in mind another thing with fluorescents....they love their grounding wire. Check to see that it is continuous through the switch. Sometimes it is not connected in the switch box, and will cause your problem.