Flourescent lighting question!

[TonkaJoe]

Alright gentlemen and ladies, rather simple, (yet not so simple) question here regarding mounting a fluorescent light. I have a 4ft double bulb fluorescent fixture that I am planning to mount on the underside of my steel cabinets above my workbench. I came up with the idea that instead of drilling or using self tappers to secure the light to my new cabinets I would attempt the use of magnets to hold the light up. This will allow for easy removal if I plan to move in the future. I found some excellent magnets made by Mastercraft at Canadian Tire. A two pack of Automotive grade for $5.99 capable of supporting up to 3lbs. I purchased 2 packs to test them out, they are unbelievably strong!! and more than safely support the weight of the fixture to the point where I have to forcefully remove it. Now the question... Will the magnets interfere with the ballast of the fluorescent fixture? I'm aware that there are both magnetic and electronic ballasts but can't find any info regarding this. Thanks for your help in advance folks!

 

[dfiler2]

I don't think the magnets will affect the electrical field at all, however, that buddy of yours with the metal plate in his head...

Actually I think that's a really good idea.

 

[TonkaJoe]

I'm not sure how well he's going to handle it when I tell him he can't come over for beer's anymore lol.. I'll simply have to try this out and see how it functions!. I'll toss some pictures up here when it's done and working.

 

[James-W]

If you have a local repair shop where they work on microwaves, if you can get hold of a junk magnetron tube you can take it apart and get the two very strong magnets from it. Those two magnets are very strong and would hold up a light fixture with no problem. If you can get hold of two magnetron tubes, you could get four magnets to put on the light for added security, but that would be overkill.