[Shop-talk] fluorescent lights and coils

[Pat Horne]

Dan,

I've had problems with T8 fixtures starting when they were only about a 
year old. These fixtures are the 3 tube, 4' drop in fixtures. The 
ballasts are made by Sylvania and have been nothing but junk. I've 
replaced about 3 ballasts a month with GE ballasts, which have worked 
fine ever since. The installation has close to 100 fixtures in it and by 
now  all but a few of the Sylvania ballasts have gone bad. I found it 
really strange that the lamps outlast the ballasts! So far I have had to 
replace only a hand full of tubes. Multiple Emails to Sylvania have gone 
unanswered.

There is not an easy way that I know of to test the ballast other than 
trying a new ballast in the fixture.

Peace,
Pat

Thusly spake Dan and Jenny Fest (Coles Nurseries Inc):
> Guys:
> I have two questions:
> First, I am having trouble with my shop fluorescent lights.  There not very
> old(3-4yrs old) - both the thinner T 8 and the thicker ones.  It's not the
> bulb.  Is there anyway to test the ballast ? I would think this is the only
> other thing it could be ?
> Next, is there anyway to check a coil for starting an older car.  I have a few
> lying around and would like to see if there're worth keeping.
> Thanks,
> Dan
> _______________________________________________
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-- 
Pat Horne, Owner, Horne Systems 
(512) 797-7501 Voice		5026 FM 2001
Pat at HorneSystemsTx.com	Lockhart, TX 78644-4443
www.hornesystemstx.com
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