Buzz
Dealing with a flickering or dead fluorescent bulb can be frustrating, signaling it might be time for a replacement. Before rushing out to buy a new one, it's wise to confirm if the bulb is indeed the problem. By inspecting for visible issues, cleaning components, and examining the electronics, you can determine whether it's a simple fix or a trip to the hardware store.
Steps to Follow
Identifying Surface Problems
Check for Dark Spots at the Base. As fluorescent bulbs age, they develop brown spots, indicating their deterioration. If dark areas appear at the tube ends, it's a sign of wear, suggesting the bulb's lifespan is nearing its end. Although they may still illuminate, their functionality is diminishing, signaling an eventual failure.
- If darkening occurs at one end of a tube light, rotate it so the darkened end faces away from the fixture.
- If darkening appears on one side of the tube, rotate it 180 degrees from its previous position.
Examine the pins at the end of the bulbs. The pins of the electrode establish the connection between the light bulb and the power source. If the pins are bent or misaligned, use needle-nose pliers to straighten them before reinserting them into the fixture.
Try the bulb in a functional fixture. Take out the bulb from the suspected fixture and test it in another lamp. If the issue lies with the lamp, the bulb should function properly in a different fixture.
- When testing tube lights, ensure to test both bulbs even if only one appears faulty. Electrical currents flow between both tubes, and either could be the culprit.
Verifying the Electrical Components
Inspect your electrical panel box. Verify that the circuit is intact. If the breaker has tripped, turn the switch completely off, then switch it back on. Recheck the lamp to see if it illuminates.
Check the electrodes with a multimeter. Using a multimeter can determine if the electrodes still conduct electricity. If the electrodes are damaged, the bulb will not carry a current. Place the probes on both pins of the tube light to obtain an accurate measurement.
- If the multimeter shows no reading, the bulbs should be replaced.
Replace the starter if issues persist. Older fluorescent fixtures have small metal cylinders known as 'starters' on the ends. These starters ignite the gas within the bulb and are essential for proper illumination. Many hardware stores stock replacements for a nominal cost.
- Take note of the bulb's wattage to ensure the correct starter is purchased.
- Old starters appear identical to new ones, so discard any that have malfunctioned.
Cleaning the Bulb
Rock the bulb in its socket. Gently moving the bulb back and forth can dislodge any corrosion or dust near the socket. Use a fresh paper towel to wipe away any remaining residue.
- Ensure the power is switched off to prevent electrical hazards.
Wipe the bulb with a cloth dampened in dish detergent. Some bulbs fail to illuminate if they're covered in dirt or dust. Remove the bulb and softly rub the surface with a cloth. Afterward, use another cloth dampened in water to rinse off the soap.
- Exercise caution when handling fluorescent tubes as they are fragile and may break into sharp pieces.
Use fine sandpaper to clean the electrode pins. Eliminate any corrosion or residue by gently scrubbing the pins. Such particles impede the flow of electricity and could be causing the issue. After cleaning, use a cloth or paper towel to remove any loose debris before reinserting the bulb into the fixture.
Useful Tips
- If the bulb still doesn't illuminate, it may have lost its gas and requires replacement.
Important Warnings
- When dealing with electronics, ensure the power source is switched off to prevent the risk of electric shock.
