High voltage output from the transformer connects to the two clip terminals on one end of the fluorescent light bulb. Line voltage (typically 120VAC) is supplied to the ballast or transformer. In concept replacing a fluorescent lamp ballast or transformer is pretty simple what can be intimidating is the plethora of wiring diagrams on the new ballast, none of which matches exactly the wiring diagram on the original unit.īallast manufacturers like Phillips offer technical support, including a telephone number to call for assistance. Watch out: after electrical power has been removed from the light circuit you must also ground the ballast terminals before touching any wire ends a ballast can give a tremendous electrical shock. Making a mistake can cause a building fire, shock, injury, or death. Watch out: if you are not trained and comfortable with proper electrical wiring and repair work, hire someone who is qualified. Turn off electrical power before touching or attempting to work on electrical lights or fixtures. Watch out: You could be shocked or killed. To stop the flickering light in this luminaire fixture I needed to replace the ballast.įluorescent light fixture ballast replacement is not technically difficult but you do need to pay careful attention to wire color codes and uses on both the old and new transformers.

fluorescent fixture installed in the bathroom of a Minnesota home built in 1963. In the photo I am showing the original data tag for this Fox Co. Replacing & Wiring a Fluorescent Light Ballast or Transformer We also provide an ARTICLE INDEX for this topic, or you can try the page top or bottom SEARCH BOX as a quick way to find information you need. If the simple bulb or starter repairs we describe here don't cure the flickering, switch off the bad-acting light fixture, leave it off, and ask for help from a licensed electrician. Watch out: flickering or dimming lights might indicate a dangerous condition risking a building fire or an electrical shock. This article series explains how to diagnose and repair fluorescent lights in buildings. Steps in replacing the ballast or transformer to cure a dead or a flickering fluorescent light. We have no relationship with advertisers, products, or services discussed at this website. InspectAPedia tolerates no conflicts of interest.

Transformer wire color codes