Serving Residents ofLight ballasts are one of those devices that you rarely hear about but use all the time. A light ballast is a component of some light bulbs, such as fluorescent bulbs. The small, rectangular box that houses the ballast connects to the fluorescent tube and is usually tucked away within the light fixture, which is why we don’t really realize it’s even there.
How Does a Light Ballast Work?
The purpose of a light ballast is to control the amount of current in a light circuit. For a fluorescent light bulb, the ballast ensures the current’s voltage doesn’t spike too high and burn out the bulb.
When you flip the switch of a fluorescent bulb, it immediately produces an arc or discharge of electricity between the two electrodes of the bulb. The light ballast regulates the electrical current that passes between the electrodes. Without a properly functioning light ballast, the fluorescent bulb would overheat in less than a second and then burn out completely.
Residential Light Ballasts: What Homeowners Should Know
Fluorescent lighting is not as common in homes throughout Littleton, CO, but it is still found in certain areas such as basements, garages, and workshops. In residential settings, light ballasts are primarily used to regulate the electrical current that powers fluorescent tubes, ensuring they operate safely and efficiently.
Many homeowners choose other lighting options over fluorescent bulbs because the light can feel brighter and more industrial compared to traditional incandescent or modern LED lighting. Fluorescent bulbs also cost more upfront and contain a small amount of mercury. While the mercury level is minimal, proper disposal is required, which can make them less convenient than other lighting options.
One advantage of fluorescent lighting is energy efficiency. These bulbs typically use less energy than older incandescent bulbs and have a longer lifespan, meaning fewer replacements over time. They also produce significantly less heat—about 75% less than conventional bulbs—which can be beneficial in enclosed areas like garages or utility spaces.
In residential applications, the primary consideration when selecting a light ballast is ensuring it matches the size and type of fluorescent tube being used. Unlike commercial properties where fluorescent lighting may be installed throughout an entire building, residential ballasts are usually limited to specific areas of the home.
When Is It Time to Replace a Light Ballast?
The convenient thing about light ballasts is their longevity. The average ballast can work for up to 20 years before it needs replacement. Two things that could lower ballast’s lifespan are cold air (again, think basements and garages) and low-quality fluorescent light bulbs.
You’ll know there’s an issue with the light ballast when the light bulbs keep flickering or make humming noises. Also, if you’ve recently replaced the light bulbs, but they burn out again quickly, the bulbs were probably not the issue–the ballast was to blame.
Thankfully, you can purchase ballasts at any local home improvement store, and they aren’t costly. However, there are many different types of ballasts to match the many fluorescent bulbs, so you have to make sure you get the right one for your setup.
Magnetic Ballasts
Magnetic ballasts have been around for quite a while and work with fluorescent and high-intensity discharge (HID) lights. For fluorescent lighting that uses T12 linear fluorescent tubes and two-pin CFLs, you’ll want a magnetic ballast.
Electronic Ballasts
More recent lighting options will utilize electronic ballasts. These devices can fluctuate their electricity frequencies without needing to alter their input voltage. For this reason, electronic ballasts rarely produce flickering or buzzing (unless they are having issues).
If your light fixture is older and uses a magnetic ballast, you can replace it with an electronic ballast fairly easily. Still, it’s most helpful to have a professionally trained electrician do the job correctly.
Get in Touch with MZ Electric for Assistance
If you’re searching for an “electrician near me” to get help with your light ballasts or any other electrical work, give MZ Electric a call. We are the #1 electrical service provider in the Denver and Littleton, CO, area.
All of our technicians are drug tested, background checked, and professionally trained, so you don’t need to worry about who you are allowing into your home. They will arrive on time and treat your home respectfully, all while assisting with your electrical needs. Give us a call or schedule service via our website today! Plus, we will also provide you with competitive rates for our services and offer discounts to seniors, teachers, and military members.
