Fluorescent Lamp Troubleshooting Guide
Canlyte
Lighting system maintenance is a top priority for many facility managers. But when something goes wrong in a fluorescent or HID lighting system, identifying the problem can be a challenge. The guide below provides step-by-step help for diagnosing and correcting several common fluorescent lamp issues. To see the full guide, including HID troubleshooting help, click here.
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Symptom
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Corrective Action
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Lamps will not
operate
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1. Check if there is power to the fixture.
2. Be sure lamp is properly seated in socket.
3. Replace lamp.
4. Reseat or change starter (preheat only)
5. Check wiring connections.
6. Test ballast
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Slow or erratic
starting
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1. Check ground (fixture must be grounded for reliable starting)
2. Check ballast label for correct lamp.
3. Check wiring connections.
4. Check for low supply voltage.
5. Be sure lamp is properly seated in socket.
6. Test ballast.
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Excessive Noise
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1. Tighten loose components.
2. Install ballasts of the proper sound rating.
3. Replace faulty ballast(s). Normal operation should resume.
4. Note: All fluorescent ballasts emit some noise.
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Lamp(s) are
cycling
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1. Check air temperature in and around fixture.
2. Check ballast and coil temperatures – ballast case temperatures should not exceed 90° C and coil temperatures should not exceed 105° C.
3. Remove building insulation from above fixtures to allow for heat dissipation.
4. Replace faulty ballast(s). Normal operation should resume.
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Lamp flickering
and or swirling
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1. New lamps with less than 100 hours of service can exhibit this
2. Defective starters
3. Lamp to cold
4. Defective lamp
5. Improper voltage
6. Defective ballast
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Strobing/Blinking
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1. Improper fixture design or ballast application
2. High circuit voltage
3. Improper wiring or installation
4. Defective ballast
5. Poor lamp maintenance
6. Incorrect type of lamps
7. Incorrect number of lamps
8. High ambient temperature
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Interference
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1. Radio and antenna must be 4-10 feet from lamps.
2. Correct condition by use of radio interference filters.
3. Lighting fixtures should be on separate electrical circuits.
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Recycling Fluorescent Lamps with Air Cycle
When the time comes to recycle spent fluorescent lamps, Air Cycle has a solution to fit every size facility. The Bulb Eater® lamp crushing system is a convenient and cost-saving way for larger facilities to store their spent lamps prior to recycling.
The EasyPak™ prepaid recycling container program makes recycling spent lamps simple, and offers online features such as Recycling Reports and Container Tracking. Learn more » Air Cycle lamp recycling solutions
