How to Fix Fluorescent Strip Fixture

A fluorescent strip fixture is a common sight in many homes, as these strips are becoming ever more popular. However, although the strips themselves can be long lasting, they do not last forever, and you have to replace them. Also, when the light goes, you may find that the solution to fixing the fixtures may not be as easy as taking out the fluorescent strip and putting in a new one. There can be a number of other problems which just cannot be fixed by the man in the street. If you are anxious to try and put in a new fluorescent strip, or you are keen to try and troubleshoot the problem with the fluorescent strip fixtures, then you may need some home improvement tools, some time, and most of all, a step ladder.

Step 1 - Replace the Fluorescent Strip

Take your step ladder, and place it below one of the fluorescent strip fixture ends. Remove the light fixture lens from the corner of the fixture, and look at the lighting. If you see a dark strip, or line, around the end of the fluorescent tube, then you will need to replace the tube. Take hold of the end, and turn it until the tube comes free. You should be able to pull it down in one turning movement. Place it on the ground, and then take up the new one. Put the tube into the far end, and turn until you feel a click. This is the tube slotting into place. Put the lens back on the end.

Step 2 - Check the Starter

If this did not solve your problems, then you need to look at other areas in the fixture. Turn off the power supply at the wall, and take off the lens, as previously. Take the fluorescent tube, and then take off the tube which usually fits into the sides of the fixture. This covers the ballast and the electric wires. Use your voltmeter to test the wires to ensure that they are not carrying any residual current, and then look for a small round object, rather like a cylinder. This is the starter. Turn it to the right to dismantle it. Use a replacement starter button, and put it into the gap you just created, and then turn it to the left until it snaps into position. Replace the parts of the fixture you removed, and test.

Step 3 - Check the Lampholder

If you have no joy from replacing the starter, then turn the power off again, and remove your fluorescent tube. Look at the lampholders which hold up the tube, and check to ensure that none of them are broken or damaged. Test the wires using a voltmeter to check that the power is off, and then remove the lamp holder. You need to extract the wires by pulling the clip with them on out of the lampholder. Attach the wires into the new device, and replace the lamp into the fluorescent strip holder.