Are you tired of constantly replacing your ballasts in your fluorescent light fixtures? Bypassing the ballast and directly wiring your fluorescent tubes can save you money and time. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide and wiring diagram to help you bypass your ballast.
What is a Ballast?
A ballast is a device used in fluorescent lights to regulate the electrical current flowing to the bulbs. Without a ballast, the electrical current in the bulb would increase to an unsafe level and cause the bulb to burn out quickly or even explode.
However, ballasts can be expensive to replace and can fail frequently. By bypassing the ballast, you eliminate this potential problem and can save money on future maintenance.
FAQs About Ballasts
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What are the signs of a bad ballast? | Signs of a bad ballast include flickering lights, buzzing noises, and the need to replace bulbs frequently. |
| How long do ballasts typically last? | Ballasts can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years, depending on the type of ballast and usage. |
| Can ballasts be repaired instead of replaced? | Some ballasts can be repaired, but it is typically more cost-effective to replace the ballast entirely. |
How to Bypass the Ballast
Before you start, make sure to turn off the power to the light fixture at the breaker box.
Step 1: Remove the Old Ballast
Start by removing the cover of the light fixture and locating the ballast. Cut the wires going to the ballast and remove it from the fixture.
Step 2: Identify the Wires
Now it’s time to identify the wires. You should have two wires coming from each end of the fluorescent tube. One wire will be connected to a socket, and the other will be connected to a starter or a fuse.
You should also have two wires coming from the power source, usually black and white wires, and a ground wire. The black wire is the hot wire, the white wire is the neutral wire, and the ground wire is usually green or bare.
Step 3: Connect the Wires
Connect the hot wire from the power source to one end of the fluorescent tube. Connect the neutral wire from the power source to the other end of the fluorescent tube. Make sure to connect the wires securely and tightly.
Next, connect the ground wire from the power source to the ground wire from the fixture. If your fixture does not have a ground wire, attach it to the metal frame of the fixture.
Step 4: Test the Light
Now it’s time to test the light. Turn the power back on at the breaker box and flip the light switch. If you followed the wiring diagram correctly, the light should turn on without any issues.
If the light does not turn on, turn off the power and double-check all of your connections. Make sure everything is connected securely and tightly.
Conclusion
Bypassing the ballast can be a cost-effective and time-saving solution for fluorescent light fixtures. Just make sure to follow the wiring diagram carefully and turn off the power before starting any work.
