If available, choose an electronic ballast.
Compare the cost of the ballast to the cost of a new fluorescent light fixture.
It may be less expensive and easier to replace the entire fixture than the ballast.
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If the fixture has a cord and plug, unplug it to disconnect from power.
If these ballasts leak, they should be regarded as hazardous waste and treated carefully.
Dispose of old ballasts at your nearest hazardous waste disposal site.
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Some fixtures have a clear plastic lens that wraps around the outside of the fixture.
On these, grab the outer edge, and gently pull the cover away from the fixture and down.
Remove the Fluorescent Tubes
Remove the light bulbs (fluorescent tubes).
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Grab the bulb and twist it about 90 degrees until you see the metal contacts at its ends.
Gently pull down on one end so the contacts slide out of the socket.
Remove the bulb from the fixture.
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Repeat the process for the remaining tubes.
Now is a good time to inspect the sockets holding the tubes at each end of the light fixture.
If they are loose or broken, they should be tightened or replaced.
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Remove the Cover Plate
Locate the wiring cover plate, usually in the center of the fixture.
On either side of the cover, there will be tabs that catch in slots in the fixture.
This will expose the ballast and its wiring.
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Disconnect the Ballast Wires
Look for the black wire and white wires connected to the ballast.
These are the power source wires.
The test should indicate that there is no voltage present in the wires.
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Remove the ballast from the fixture.
Connect the ballast wires to the fixture wires to match the original wiring, using wire connectors.
Reinstall the wiring cover plate, the light bulbs, and the fixture lens.
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Restore power by switching on the circuit breaker, and test the fixture for proper operation.
A fluorescent light will not work without a ballast.
A fluorescent light ballast will last about 75,000 hours or 15 years, with normal usage.
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The information will be printed on the front of the ballast.
Fluorescent lights do not need a ballast and a starter.
The ballast is the starter.
So, there is no need for a separate starter.
Engineering Tech Tips: Fluorescent Lamp Retrofits: Savings or Fantasy?USDA / U.S. Forest Service.
