fluorescent lights

[Charliekilo]

Is there a way to test fluorescent light tubes? When you flip the switch and nothing happens the tube is a starting point when checking for something failed. Running to the store and buying another tube to try does not seem a wise option.

 

[G_P]

Not sure if they can be tested. I just put the bulb in a known working fixture to rule out bulb failure.


Sent via carrier pigeon.

 

[malibu101]

Probably not worthwhile (pricewise) to Harry Homeowner, but I've seen this tool although I've never touched one-
http://www.milwaukeetool.com/instruments/lighting-testers/2210-20

I think what G P Said above is the best and simplest way.

 

[tfi racing]

Only a couple of bucks for a lamp-the best and simplest test tool ever...

 

[Charliekilo]

Only a couple of bucks for a lamp-the best and simplest test tool ever...

A couple bucks for the tube and cost of twenty mile trip.

Thanks guys . I use the swap method. I was just wondering?

 

[Joe G.]

A couple bucks for the tube and cost of twenty mile trip.

Or just keep a few extra on hand so you don't have to drive 20 miles for a $2 lamp?

 

[ddawg16]

You can get a good idea just looking at the end of the tube. The most common failure is the tungsten filament is worn out which is why you see the ends a dark gray.

If the ends are pretty gray....chances are the bulb is at the end of it's life.

If your swapping....do two at a time....that way you confirm the ballast is ok....if it lights up then swap in one of the old bulbs to confirm which one is bad.

If you have the old t12's and the ballast is bad....good time to swap out for T8's....it's a few more bucks but worth it.

Someone please correct me....but I think the ends on T12's and T8's are the same? I don't have any t8's to compare....just t5's and CFL's.

 

[Charliekilo]

Or just keep a few extra on hand so you don't have to drive 20 miles for a $2 lamp?

They seem to get broken before needed.

 

[jerryd68]

You can get a good idea just looking at the end of the tube. The most common failure is the tungsten filament is worn out which is why you see the ends a dark gray.

If the ends are pretty gray....chances are the bulb is at the end of it's life.

If your swapping....do two at a time....that way you confirm the ballast is ok....if it lights up then swap in one of the old bulbs to confirm which one is bad.

If you have the old t12's and the ballast is bad....good time to swap out for T8's....it's a few more bucks but worth it.

Someone please correct me....but I think the ends on T12's and T8's are the same? I don't have any t8's to compare....just t5's and CFL's.

The T12 and T8 tombstones are the same, but the T12 HO's are different

 

[Joe G.]

They seem to get broken before needed.

Yeah... that's not good.