Changing balast advice needed
#1
07-15-13, 12:58 PM
Changing balast advice needed
My bathroom fixture mounted above medicine cabinet has 2 30W 36" 2 prong bulbs.
A few months ago it failed to fully light when turned on. The problem disappeared for several months but has now returned. I replaced both bulbs which lit fully 1st time they were turned on, then only dimly since. What's my problem, ballast? If so, how do I correct it? Can I purchase ballast as a separate item , and is it difficult to install? I hate to buy a new fixture as similar ones are in the $300 range.
Any advice or instruction appreciated!
Thanks
A few months ago it failed to fully light when turned on. The problem disappeared for several months but has now returned. I replaced both bulbs which lit fully 1st time they were turned on, then only dimly since. What's my problem, ballast? If so, how do I correct it? Can I purchase ballast as a separate item , and is it difficult to install? I hate to buy a new fixture as similar ones are in the $300 range.
Any advice or instruction appreciated!
Thanks
#2
07-15-13, 01:21 PM
Yes, you can purchase a new ballast. The old one is probably a magnetic T12 ballast. You can look at that label to verify that. When you are looking at the ballast do you see what looks like tar running out. With the switch on after a few minutes is the ballast to hot to touch?
Assuming it is a T12 ballast the best recommendation would be to replace with an electronic T8 ballast and new T8 bulbs. The T8 bulbs will fit in the same sockets (tombstones) as the T12. Wiring will probably be different and you will need to follow the diagram on the new ballast. Reasoning: T-12 is being phased out and T-8 is more energy efficient and brighter.
Assuming it is a T12 ballast the best recommendation would be to replace with an electronic T8 ballast and new T8 bulbs. The T8 bulbs will fit in the same sockets (tombstones) as the T12. Wiring will probably be different and you will need to follow the diagram on the new ballast. Reasoning: T-12 is being phased out and T-8 is more energy efficient and brighter.
Last edited by ray2047; 07-15-13 at 06:24 PM.
#3
07-15-13, 02:41 PM
Changing balast advice needed
Thanks for the reply!
Question, I have a new unused 2 lamp 48 inch shop lite that I don't need. Could I remove the ballast from that and use it in the 36" fixture? How do I determine if it is compatable, I.E. model no. etc.
Thanks again.
Question, I have a new unused 2 lamp 48 inch shop lite that I don't need. Could I remove the ballast from that and use it in the 36" fixture? How do I determine if it is compatable, I.E. model no. etc.
Thanks again.
