What is electronic ballast for fluorescent lights?
In a fluorescent lighting system, the ballast regulates the current to the lamps and provides sufficient voltage to start the lamps. Without a ballast to limit its current, a fluorescent lamp connected directly to a high voltage power source would rapidly and uncontrollably increase its current draw.
What type of ballast is used for fluorescent lights?
Magnetic ballasts vs. For the fluorescent family, both T12 linear fluorescents and two-pin CFLs use magnetic ballasts. For HIDs, some metal halides and HPS lamps use magnetic ballasts. Magnetic ballasts are typically the culprit for buzzing and flickering because they regulate electricity incrementally.
Is ballast needed for LED tube?
No LED bulbs require a ballast, although some are engineered to work with an existing ballast. You will find ballast-compatible or “plug-and-play” LEDs that are designed to replace linear fluorescents, compact fluorescents, or HIDs.
How do I WIRE an electronic ballast?
Individual ballast wires each connect to a lampholder on one side of each tube. The common wire(s) connect to all of the lampholders on the other side of the tubes.
Can I replace a magnetic ballast with an electronic ballast?
However, replacing magnetic ballasts with electronic ballasts is not without its complications. The wiring may be different. Look at the wiring diagram on the ballast label to make sure. Check the ballast label against the labels on the lamps to make sure that they are compatible.
What does the ballast do in a fluorescent light fixture?
In a fluorescent lighting system, the ballast regulates the current to the lamps and provides sufficient voltage to start the lamps. Without a ballast to limit its current, a fluorescent lamp connected directly to a high voltage power source would rapidly and uncontrollably increase its current draw.
How do you replace a fluorescent light ballast?
To replace a fluorescent light ballast, take off the cover of the old ballast, cut out the wiring, unscrew the old ballast and attach the new ballast. Ballast replacement is a common solution to flickering or humming fluorescent lights.