How to Replace the Ballast in a Troffer

When the lights go out during an important meeting or during a classroom session, you can almost be sure that the fluorescent lights have burned out and need to be replaced. The ballast is the container that consists of the fluorescent lights. The troffer is the light fixture that cases the ballast and provides it with electrical power. Replacing the ballast or fluorescent lamp in the troffer or lamp fixture is a simple process and will take you about 10 minutes to complete.

Twist wire connectors
Screwdriver
Socket wrench
Wire cutters
Step ladder
Ballast replacement

Instructions

- 1
  Disconnect the AC power from the lamp fixture. This prevents you from getting electrocuted when you install the ballast.
- 2
  Place a step ladder under the light fixture and step up the ladder. Leave the replacement ballast on a sturdy surface until you are ready to retrieve it. Remove the ballast cover by squeezing the side covers together. Set the cover aside.
- 3
  Remove the fluorescent light bulb. Push inwards on one side of the bulb and use your other hand to pull down on the opposite end. Rotate the bulb if this doesn't work or use a socket wrench and remove the screws if it is connected with screws. Some fluorescent bulbs have different removal instructions. Cut the old ballast wiring with a pair of wire cutters, about 3 inches from the end of the ballast.
- 4
  Take the bulb in both hands and move slowly down the ladder. Be very gentle with the bulb and set it down on a sturdy surface.
- 5
  Mount the new ballast in the fixture. Strip the electrical wiring back to about 1/2 inch. Connect the wiring to its matching colored wires in the troffer with twist-wire connectors. Insert the troffer casing and snap it in place until it is firmly fitted.

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