How Fluorescent Light Fixtures Work
When you use fluorescent lighting you are conserving energy and the bonus is you help the planet, but there are other benefits from using them instead of incandescent light bulbs. They also do cost more initially but in a short time(3-12months) you will see that they pay for themselves as your electric bill will show an with the newer generation of them the "yellow glow" has been eliminated, don't flicker and light up quickly.
How does the amazing florescent lighting work? In a fluorescent lamp, the main component is a glass tube that's sealed. Inside the tube, a phosphor powder covers the interior of the glass tube. Meanwhile, the tube contains two electrodes, with one on either end of the tube. These electrodes include wires that extend to an (electrical circuit), which is connected to an Alternating Current, or AC supply.
After the fluorescent lamp is turned on, current will flow through the electrical circuit to the pair of electrodes. The electrons will then start to move through the gas from one end of the tube to the other. Some mercury that is inside the tube then turns from its liquid form into its gaseous state. Electrons and ions move along the tube and as they do so crash into gaseous mercury atoms, which in turn leads to an increase of energy for the atoms' electrons. As the electrons return to their original energy level light photons are emitted.
Occasionally something does not work correctly but here are a few steps to follow to try to determine and solve the problem:
Step 1 - Ensure that the light fixture has power by checking the switch to see if it is on. You can also check the breakers to make sure that the area is functioning and not tripped.
Step 2 - Examine the fluorescent light bulbs to make sure that nothing is broken. If any are not working, then they have to be replaced. Once again switch on the power and see if the new light bulbs in the fixture turn on.
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: Replace the ballast if the cost is worthwhile. In other words, if cost is lower than replacing the entire fixture, then replace the ballast. It's fairly easy if you have some basic knowledge about electrical 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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