My Fluorescent Light is Not Working Does it Need a New Ballast
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I have a built-in light fixture above my stove that is at least 20 years old. I just tried to replace the starter and the bulb and the bulb flashed once and then was dead. |
Fluorescent Light Fixture
Electrical Question: I replace the starter and the bulb and the bulb flashed and does not work.
Does my Fluorescent Light Need a New Ballast?
- I have a built-in light fixture above my stove that is at least 20 years old.
- I just tried to replace the starter and the bulb and the bulb flashed once and then was dead.
- After pulling the dead bulb I could hear something rattling around inside of it. Since it was a fresh starter, is this a ballast problem?
This electrical wiring question came from Bud, a Homeowner in Ohio.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Bud.
How to Repair a Fluorescent Light
Application: a Fluorescent Light.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor, or Certified Electrician.
Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester, and appropriate Safety Gear.
Estimated Time: Depends on the personal level experience, ability to work with tools, install electrical circuit wiring, and the available access to the project area.
Electrical Safety: Identify the electrical power source to the Fluorescent Light, turn it OFF and Tag with a Note before working with the electrical wiring.
Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials: Electrical parts and materials for the Fluorescent Light should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and national electrical codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections: Installing or changing home electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes as adopted in Akron, Ohio. A permit and inspections may also be required.
Problem with a Fluorescent Light Fixture
This electrical wiring project is about a Fluorescent Light in the Kitchen of a Old Home.
Fluorescent Light Ballast
- From what you have described it is possible that the ballast is bad as well, however it is best to start with a new starter and new lamp first, then if the fixture does not work then the ballast is most likely the problem, and will require replacing.
Bud, Please see the following articles that will assist you:
Fluorescent Lighting Problems and How To Fix Them
How to Fix Your Fluorescent Lighting Problems: The Most Common Problems with Fluorescent Lighting and How to Fix Them, Troubleshooting Problems with Fluorescent Light Fixtures.
How to Stop Fluorescent Lights from Flickering
Solving the Problem of Flickering Light Fixtures: How to Stop Those Annoying Flickering Fluorescent Lights, The Main Causes of Flickering Fluorescent Lights and How to Fix Them<
More about Light Fixtures
How to Install Kitchen Electrical Wiring
Kitchen Electrical Wiring
Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Kitchen Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.
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