Fluorescent Lighting TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

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Most fluorescent lighting installations provide reliable service for many years with no maintenance, except routine cleaning and lamp replacement. If a malfunction does occur, use this guide to diagnose and correct the problem:

SYMPTOM	.	CORRECTIVE ACTION
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LAMP(S) WILL NOT OPERATE:	1.	Be sure lamp is properly seated in socket.
	2.	Replace lamp.
	3.	Reseat or change starter (preheat only).
	4.	Check wiring connections.
	5.	Test ballast.
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SLOW OR ERRATIC STARTING	1.	Be sure lamp is properly seated in socket.
	2.	Check ballast label for correct lamp.
	3.	Check wiring connections.
	4.	Check for low supply voltage.
	5.	Check ground (Fixture must be properly grounded for reliable starting.)
	6.	Test ballast.
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BLINKING, SNAKING OR FLICKERING	1.	Turn fixture on and off several times at one-half hour intervals.
	2.	Check ambient temperature and change to ballast rated for conditions if below 50°F * (Check for fans or air conditioners blowing across lamps).
	3.	Check wiring connections.
	4.	Check supply voltage.
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REDUCED LIGHT OUTPUT	1.	Check for ambient temperature significantly above or below 70°F.
	2.	Check for fans or air conditioners blowing across lamps.
	3.	Check wiring connections.
	4.	Test ballast.
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RADIO INTERFERENCE	1.	Move electronics at least 10' from lamps.
	2.	install Radio Interference Filter.
	3.	Improve equipment grounding or install shielded and grounded radio antenna.
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REPEATED CYCLING (ON/OFF)	1.	Check ballast label for correct lamp cycling.
	2.	Check wiring connections.
	3.	Check voltage. supply.
	4.	Check for higher ambient temperatures, ventilate or suspend fixture.
	5.	Test ballast.

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* Fluorescent lamps experience starting problems when ambient temperature is below 50°F . New lamp break-in period is approximately 100 hours before reaching maximum light output.