How to Install an Electronic Ballast for Fluorescent Lights

Electronic ballasts replace the heavy magnetic ballasts that drive fluorescent light tubes. Also known as solid-state ballasts, electronic units incorporate transistors and diodes instead of the steel plates and copper windings in the old "core-and-coil" magnetic units. Electronic ballasts cut electricity consumption by 10 to 15 percent and reduce flicker. With lamp socket retrofit, they can add "instant on" capability to standard fluorescent tubes. Lighter than original equipment magnetic models, electronic ballasts come in standard sizes that allow direct retrofit into existing fluorescent fixtures.

Screwdriver
Wire cutters
Screw-on wire connectors

Instructions

- 1
  Disconnect electrical power to the light fixture.
- 2
  Remove the fluorescent light tubes. Take off the metal channel cover off the fixture to expose the ballast.
- 3
  Cut the wires to the magnetic ballast. Remove the screws securing the magnetic ballast and remove the ballast from the fixture.
- 4
  Examine the existing wiring to verify that it is in good condition, not pinched anywhere in the fixture and securely attached to the light tube sockets. Consult the manufacturer's directions to verify that proper sockets are installed if instant-on operation is desired.
- 5
  Mount the replacement ballast in the fixture. Make sure the metal base of the ballast contacts the metal fixture for grounding. Tighten the ballast mounting screws firmly to secure the ground. If the replacement ballast is enclosed in an all-plastic casing, it must be grounded to the green ground wire.
- 6
  Trim the wires to the replacement ballast to minimize excess wire length. Strip 1/2-inch of insulation from the end of the ballast wires and the cut existing wires.
- 7
  Connect the replacement ballast wires to the existing wires following the instructions shown on the replacement ballast label. Secure the connections using insulated screw-on wire connectors.
- 8
  Reinstall the metal channel cover on the fixture.
- 9
  Replace the fluorescent lamps and make sure they are firmly seated in the sockets.
- 10
  Restore power to the fixture and test.

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