How do single pin fluorescent bulbs work? A fluorescent lamp, or fluorescent tube, is a low-pressure mercury-vapor gas-discharge lamp that uses fluorescence to produce visible light. An electric current in the gas excites mercury vapor, which produces short-wave ultraviolet light that then causes a phosphor coating on the inside of the lamp to glow.
How do fluorescent lamps work?
So now you know what’s inside of fluorescent lamps, but you’re probably still wondering, “how do fluorescent lights work?” When you turn the light on, electrical current flows through the electrodes The voltage causes electrons to move through the argon gas to the other side of the tube
What does single pin mean on fluorescent lights?
With fluorescent lights, the term "single-pin" refers to the single metallic contacts at each end of the fluorescent light tubes. Gas inside the tubes is ignited by a surge of spark that's provided by a ballast inside the light fixture. If the tubes flicker or won't come on at all, it's time to replace the ballast.
How do you change the bulb in a single pin lamp?
If the lamp is a single-pin lamp, you will need to pull outward on the socket to release the contact pin and then pull the fluorescent bulb downward out of the lamp. Again, be careful when removing the bulb so you do not break it. Installing the new bulb is simply the reverse of removing the old one.
How to replace a fluorescent bulb?
The first step in replacing a fluorescent bulb is knowing how to be safe. Fluorescent bulbs are fragile and become very brittle once burnt out, making them easy to break or shatter. If you do happen to break a bulb, be aware that it contains mercury.
How do I change a single pin fluorescent bulb?
13:3518:41HOW TO CHANGE ALL TYPE FLUORESCENT TUBES - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd the way you changed eases they snap in and they snap out on that that base there and you'll seeMoreAnd the way you changed eases they snap in and they snap out on that that base there and you'll see these in like outdoor sconces by the front doors.
Why do some fluorescent lights not have starters?
Can a fluorescent lamp work without a starter? Some modern fluorescent lights do work without a starter because they come pre-equipped with a ballast that has extra windings. It constantly supplies a small amount of voltage to give heat to the filaments.
How do fluorescent lights work step by step?
Fluorescent lamps work by ionizing mercury vapor in a glass tube. This causes electrons in the gas to emit photons at UV frequencies. The UV light is converted into standard visible light using a phosphor coating on the inside of the tube.
How does a ballast work in a fluorescent light?
In a fluorescent lighting system, the ballast regulates the current to the lamps and provides sufficient voltage to start the lamps. Without a ballast to limit its current, a fluorescent lamp connected directly to a high voltage power source would rapidly and uncontrollably increase its current draw.
Is a ballast the same as a starter?
The ballast initially works as a starter for the arc, supplying a high-voltage impulse and, later, it works as a limiter/regulator of the electric flow inside the circuit. Electronic ballasts also run much cooler and are lighter than their magnetic counterparts.
How do you bypass a fluorescent starter?
On the surface, performing a ballast bypass seems simple:Turn Off the Mains Power. ... Locate The Ballast On The fluorescent Light Fixture. ... Cut The Hot And Neutral wires. ... Cut Socket Wires. ... Remove The Ballast. ... Reconnect The Wires.
How do you check a ballast?
To measure it, set your digital multimeter to around a thousand ohms resistance setting. Connect the black leads to the white ground wire on your ballast. Afterward, test every other wire with the red lead. When you do this test, a good ballast will return an “open-loop” or max resistance.
Why do fluorescent lights take time to come on?
Some older lights may contain a module called a starter. This unit sends a surge of current to the tube when the light first turns on. Over time, the starter can wear down and ultimately take longer to do its job. Lights that take a long time to come on or flicker on and off without starting are common symptoms.
What is the voltage required to start a fluorescent lamp?
"Fluorescent tubes and electroluminescent panels typically require 200 to 600 V for starting and running illumination." A fluorescent light is a type of gas discharge tube, which contains an inert gas (such as argon, neon, or krypton) and mercury vapor.
Does a ballast use electricity if no bulbs are present?
No, unlike LEDs, the fluorescent bulb itself (or rather the tube) can not use power when it burns out, however, the ballasts may use a trace of energy whether or not there is a bulb installed.
How do you bypass a ballast?
How to Bypass A BallastStep 1: Disconnect All Power So There is No Electrical Current. ... Step 2: Find the Ballast. ... Step 3: Locate and Cut Only the Hot and Neutral Wires. ... Step 4: Cut the Socket Lead Wires. ... Step 5: Remove the Ballast (if you wish) ... Step 6: Connect the Wires. ... Step 7: Reattach Any Coverings and Turn On.
What voltage comes out of a ballast?
Many fluorescent ballasts are now universal voltage, meaning they can be run on line voltage from 120 to 277 volts. For international or industrial use, 347-480V ballasts are available.
What is the right fluorescent bulb?
Getting the right fluorescent bulb is important. You need something that will last and something that is right for your particular fixture. You need the right color and tone for your facility. And you need a bulb that is safe and energy efficient.
What type of base do fluorescent bulbs have?
Frequently fluorescent bulbs will have either a single pin or bi-pin (two pin) base type. Some will have a recessed double contact. By eliminating bulbs that don’t match your base type, you are on the right track to finding the right type of fluorescent light bulb. Also, what is the shape of your bulb?
What type of light do most facilities use?
Most facilities use linear (tubular) fluorescent lights; they are straight in shape and simple. They are the most widely-used type of fluorescent light, and most likely what you will be looking for.
Can you choose a fluorescent light bulb?
Choosing the right fluorescent light bulb can seem impossible. Bulb companies appear to be overflowing with fluorescent lights that differ in shape, size, color, brightness, fixture and longevity. With so many types of fluorescent bulbs, it can be easy to get lost in the jungle of options. Getting the right fluorescent bulb is important.
What is single pin in fluorescent light?
By William Machin. With fluorescent lights, the term "single-pin" refers to the single metallic contacts at each end of the fluorescent light tubes. Gas inside the tubes is ignited by a surge of spark that's provided by a ballast inside the light fixture. If the tubes flicker or won't come on at all, it's time to replace the ballast.
How to identify a breaker?
Typically, identify a breaker by a label on the inside cover of the panel. If the breakers aren't labeled, turn off the main breaker or enlist an electrician to identify and turn off the appropriate breaker.
Can you replace a single pin ballast?
In most cases, a do-it-yourself enthusiast who understands basic wiring connections can replace a single-pin ballast in a relatively short time using everyday tools.
What do the pins on a light bulb do?
The pins of the electrode connect the light bulb to the power source. If the pins are bent or misaligned, use needle-nose pliers to straighten them before returning them to the fixture. ...
How to test fluorescent bulbs?
To test fluorescent bulbs, start by checking your electrical panel box to confirm the circuit isn't broken. If the breaker has been tripped, push the switch entirely to the off position, and flip the switch back on. You can also use a multimeter to determine if the electrodes still hold conductivity.
What is a starter on a fluorescent light bulb?
Older fluorescent fixtures will have small metal cylinders called 'starters' on the ends. The starter ignites the gas within the bulb and is crucial for lighting the bulb. Many hardware stores will carry replacements for only a few dollars. Note the wattage of the bulb to ensure the correct starter is purchased.
Why won't my fluorescent light?
Some bulbs will not light if they are covered in dirt or dust. Remove the bulb and gently use a cloth on the surface. When finished, wipe the soap clean with another cloth soaked in water. Be careful handling a fluorescent tube. They’re fragile and have potential to break into shards.
How to get rid of corrosion on a light bulb?
Wiggle the bulb in its socket. Rocking the bulb back and forth in small motions can help loosen corrosion and dust that may have gathered near the socket. Clean any leftover residue with a fresh paper towel. [8]
What happens when darkness forms on a tube light?
If darkness begins to form at the ends of the tube, the bulb may be near its end. While they may still light, they are wearing out and will die soon. If the darkness only forms on one end of a tube light, flip the tube so the darkened end is on the opposite side of the fixture.
How to check if a light bulb is broken?
Ensure the circuit is not broken. If the breaker has been tripped, push the switch entirely to the off position, and flip the switch back on. Test the lamp again to see if it lights.
How to determine if a bulb is bi-pin or single-pin?
To determine the type, you need to look at the lamp to determine if it is a bi-pin lamp or single-pin lamp. A bi-pin or two-pin lamp will have contact pins on each end of the fluorescent bulb. The pins extend from each end of the light bulb and fit into a socket on either end of the lamp. A single-pin lamp will only have one contact pin extending from one end of the bulb.
What happens if you break a fluorescent bulb?
If you do happen to break a bulb, be aware that it contains mercury. When cleaning a broken bulb, use gloves and always wear shoes.
How to remove a T8 bulb?
If the lamp is a bi-pin lamp, you will need to rotate the fluorescent bulb counter clockwise to release it from the lamp sockets. Once released, you can pull it downward out of the lamp sockets. If the lamp is a single-pin lamp, you will need to pull outward on the socket to release the contact pin and then pull the fluorescent bulb downward out of the lamp. Again, be careful when removing the bulb so you do not break it.
What is a bi-pin lamp?
A bi-pin or two-pin lamp will have contact pins on each end of the fluorescent bulb. The pins extend from each end of the light bulb and fit into a socket on either end of the lamp. A single-pin lamp will only have one contact pin extending from one end of the bulb.
What type of light bulb is used to create bright light over a larger area of space?
Replacement bulb. T8 fluorescent lights, known for their ability to create bright light over a larger area of space, are a commonly used type of fluorescent bulb that over time will burn out and require replacement.
How long do T8 bulbs last?
The T8 bulbs range in length from four-foot bulbs to eight-foot bulbs. These bulbs, considered energy efficient and durable, can last up to two years before requiring replacement.
