How Fluorescent Light Fixtures Work
Using fluorescent lighting has many benefits and even though the light bulbs for this type of light are more expensive to purchase, they also save you enough to cover those extra expenses in just three to twelve months. Not only that, but fluorescent lighting uses less energy and you will save money on your electric bills and do something good for the environment. Although the first generation of fluorescent light bulbs were known for flickering, taking a while to light up, giving off an ugly yellowish glow and buzzing noises, the ones made today no longer do that.
A fluorescent lamps main part or component is a sealed glass tube containing phosphor powder which covers the glass inside. There are also two electrodes, one on each end, with wires that go to an electrical circuit which is then connected to an Alternating Circuit, or AC as it is commonly called.
After switching on the lamp, what happens? Current flows along the electrical circuit, to the pair of electrodes. This causes electrons to move via the gas, from one of the tube’s ends, to the other end. Some of the mercury contained the tube transforms from a liquid state, to a gas state. As electrons and ions migrate along the tube, some of them crash into the mercury atoms in a gas state. The energy levels of the atoms’ electrons then increase. Finally, when the electrons return to their initial energy level (voila!) they emit light photons.
However, that process does not always work as it should and if you experience that happening then the following steps will help you to find the problem and solve it.
Step 1: Make sure power is going through the fixture and make sure the switch is on and check the breaker to be sure it hasn’t tripped.
Step 2: Check to see that none of the fluorescent light bulbs are broken, and if still not working, replace the bulbs. When that is done turn on the switch to make sure it is working.
If a multi-bulb fixture has a bulb that is out then you will have to replace all of the them, because replacing just one means that they will be worn out at different rates and that puts unnecessary strain on the newest bulb.
Step 3: Check inside the light bulb socket and look for any cracks, which can result from overheating. If the socket is damaged then you should consider buying a new one.
Step 4: Examine the fixture’s power. You’ll need a circuit tester to do this, which you can find at your friendly neighborhood hardware store.
Step 5 – If it is worth the costs, then replace the ballast instead of the entire fixture. This is relatively easy to do for someone with basic knowledge of electronic components.
Fluorescent light fixtures are a good investment, but nonetheless you still will need to perform minor maintenance jobs on them. The above mentioned steps are easy to do and will ensure that you don’t stay in the dark for a long time.
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