Are all T8 ballasts the same?
Not every T8 ballast is created equal. In such a case, a programmed start ballast might be better choice. Programmed start ballasts also work well in dimming applications, because as a lamp is dimmed, the electrodes cool. Programmed-start ballasts can heat the electrodes as they cool, prolonging lamp life.
How do I know which ballast to use?
It needs to fit the electrical requirements of the lamp that it will run. When purchasing a ballast, you’ll need to read the type of lamps it’s designed for, how many lamps it operates, and the voltage the lamps will run on. Choosing the right ballast for a lamp will optimize the light output and life of the bulb.
What are the different type of fluorescent ballast?
Fluorescent ballasts are manufactured for three primary types of fluorescent lamps: preheat, rapid start, and instant start.
Are there different types of ballasts?
And there are two types of ballasts in each family: magnetic and electronic. Magnetic ballasts are the older ballast technology. For the fluorescent family, both T12 linear fluorescents and two-pin CFLs use magnetic ballasts.
Can I use a T5 ballast for T8?
A T8 ballast is generally not compatible with a T5 linear fluorescent lamp. These are ratings used to describe the shape and size of fluorescent light bulbs. The T stands for tube shape and 5 or 8 refers to the diameter of the bulb in 1/8 inches.
What is a T8 ballast?
T8 Fluorescent ballasts operate a wide range of T8 Lamps including F17T8, F25T8, F32T8, F32T8ES, F40T8 and more. Fluorescent bulbs or lamps are categorized according to their wattage, shape and diameter. The “T” in T8 indicates the bulb is Tubular, while the “8” means they are eight / eighths inch (or 1″) in diameter.
How do I choose a fluorescent ballast?
By selecting a ballast with an ideal ballast factor, you can optimize the light output of your fluorescent lighting system and maximize your energy savings. To estimate your total system lumens, multiply the rated lumens of your lamp by the ballast factor. For example, 3200 lumens x 0.77 BF = 2464 total system lumens.
What are the two types of ballasts?
There are two categories of ballasts – magnetic and electronic. Magnetic ballasts are the most basic type and operate bulbs through a core and coil transformer.
How do I know if I have a T8 or T12 ballast?
If no markings are available, the size in diameter of the tube is the easiest way to determine the type you have installed. T8 tubes are 1-inch in diameter and T12 tubes are 1 1/2 -inch.
Are T5 and T8 ballasts the same?
T5 and T8 lamps have different diameters so they are not usually interchangeable. The pin sockets will only line up and complete a circuit in a correctly sized ballast. The exact design of each ballast differs across manufacturers. There are a few ballasts which can be rewired for T5 or T8 bulbs.
How do you replace ballast?
Replacing the Ballast in a Fluorescent Light Fixture Step 1 – Turn Off Electricity Step 2 – Remove Cover Step 3 – Remove Bulbs Step 4 – Remove Ballast Cover Step 5 – Disconnect Wires Step 6 – Remove Ballast Step 7 – Install New Ballast Step 8 – Turn Power Back On
How do you replace ballast in fluorescent light fixture?
How to Replace a Ballast in a Fluorescent Light Gather Tools & Materials Voltage tester (non-contact) Wire cutter/stripper. Wire nuts Cut Power. Turn off power to the light at the breaker box, then unplug the light if possible. Take the Cover Off the Fixture. On fixtures with a clear plastic lens surrounding the fixture, remove the cover.
What are the different types of ballasts?
There are several different kinds of ballasts, but the three basic types are electronic ballasts, magnetic ballasts and digital.
What is advance ballast?
An advance ballast or transformer has a similar function to all other types or kinds of ballasts; that is to control or limit the amount of current that would flow to an electronic circuit or appliance.