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Yes....usually. However, lamp (bulb) life may be somewhat shorter than if the proper t8 ballast is used. Since ballasts limit current flow in the circuit, a mismatched (t12) ballast would cause more current to flow through the t8 lamp than the lamp's design specification. The lamp's output would therefore be

brighter in proportion to the additional current. Owners of aquariums and terrariums make use of this property by overdriving both T12 and T8 style lamps

with ballasts designed to drive two (or more) lamps to drive a single lamp,

therefore supplying 2x or more current to the lamp than its original ballast.

This results in a greatly increased light output, somewhat reduced efficiency, and

shorter lamp life.

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What is the output of a light ballast?

Fluorescent electronic ballasts have a voltage to amperage ratio chart on their face. Use this chart by selecting the voltage you are using and the corresponding amperage, then multiply the two numbers together for your wattage. Some fixtures come with more than one ballast, so you will need to take the wattage of all applicable ballasts for any given fixture to obtain the total wattage for the fixture.


Why does your fluresant light not work after you installed a ballast?

Do you have the right ballast for the type of lamps you are using? Check on the nameplate of the ballast to see it matches with the type of tubes you are using. Are the tubes snug in the lamp holders? Is the fluorescent fixture grounded using the fixture ground screw? Do you have voltage to the ballast? On most lamp start ups you can see the lamp filament glow on each end of the tube. If you don't see the filament glow on any of the tube ends, check the wires going to that lamp holder.


Will 277V work with a 120V ballast?

The impedence of the ballast is system voltage dependent to allow required current to pass through the light fixture. If system voltage changes, the current passing through the light fixture changes, therefore to get designed output from the fixture, the ballast has to be changed.


Can you replace t8 bulb in fixture now using t12 bulb?

Yes a T12 lamp socket will take a T8 tube. The T8 tube will not operate. The T8 ballast is an electronic ballast where as the T12 ballast is a magnetic type. If you are changing over fluorescent fixtures to the smaller T8 lamps then the ballast has to be changed and the end sockets have to be rewired. The schematic on how to do the rewire is on the electronic ballast's label.


Buzzing noise from light fixture?

A buzzing noise from a standard incandescent lighting fixture can be caused by a short in the lighting circuit (which is dangerous), or in some cases it can happen using a rheostat that is not all the way on or all the way off. The larger the physical size (not necessarily wattage) of the filament, the more likely it is to buzz using a dimmer -- these bulbs are designed for 120 volts, and using a rheostat gives less voltage to the lamp.A tube fluorescent fixture can make a buzzing noise if the ballast (small electrical box inside the fixture) is beginning to fail.Some outdoor fixtures are inherently noisy, such as a sodium arc lamp. In this case, there is really nothing to be done about it.

Related Questions

What is the output of a light ballast?

Fluorescent electronic ballasts have a voltage to amperage ratio chart on their face. Use this chart by selecting the voltage you are using and the corresponding amperage, then multiply the two numbers together for your wattage. Some fixtures come with more than one ballast, so you will need to take the wattage of all applicable ballasts for any given fixture to obtain the total wattage for the fixture.


Why does your fluresant light not work after you installed a ballast?

Do you have the right ballast for the type of lamps you are using? Check on the nameplate of the ballast to see it matches with the type of tubes you are using. Are the tubes snug in the lamp holders? Is the fluorescent fixture grounded using the fixture ground screw? Do you have voltage to the ballast? On most lamp start ups you can see the lamp filament glow on each end of the tube. If you don't see the filament glow on any of the tube ends, check the wires going to that lamp holder.


Will 277V work with a 120V ballast?

The impedence of the ballast is system voltage dependent to allow required current to pass through the light fixture. If system voltage changes, the current passing through the light fixture changes, therefore to get designed output from the fixture, the ballast has to be changed.


How can I safely and effectively bypass a LED ballast in a lighting fixture?

To safely and effectively bypass a LED ballast in a lighting fixture, you should first turn off the power to the fixture. Then, remove the ballast and connect the LED directly to the power source using the appropriate wiring. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult a professional if you are unsure.


What does the ballast do in a fluorescent light fixture?

Electronic Ballast plays a important part in lights.We need a Ballast Tester to test the electronic ballast performance of a fluorescent light fixture. This is a basic process that can be accomplished quickly once you understand the operation of the high voltage transformer. The high voltage transformer is also encased in an oil bath that reduces the heat created by the action of the transformer. A low voltage, generally 120 VAC, is transformed into a high voltage, generally in thousands of volts. There must be a continuity between the wires of the high voltage side in order for the circuit to operate correctly. Heat can damaged the internal connections of the ballast. By using a volt ohmmeter the internal circuit can be quickly checked. Not only in the voltage, but also in the current and others factors. If you want to learn more details about electronic ballast and relevant instruments, see the related link.


What are the benefits of using a t8 fluorescent fixture compared to other types of lighting fixtures?

The benefits of using a T8 fluorescent fixture compared to other types of lighting fixtures include energy efficiency, longer lifespan, and better color rendering.


How can you find out if your fluorescent lights are using too many amps?

The amperage is printed on the ballast. If your meter reads higher that that what is printed there, then the ballast is drawing more amps that it should.


Can you replace t8 bulb in fixture now using t12 bulb?

Yes a T12 lamp socket will take a T8 tube. The T8 tube will not operate. The T8 ballast is an electronic ballast where as the T12 ballast is a magnetic type. If you are changing over fluorescent fixtures to the smaller T8 lamps then the ballast has to be changed and the end sockets have to be rewired. The schematic on how to do the rewire is on the electronic ballast's label.


What are the best installation tips for a small fluorescent light fixture?

To install a small fluorescent light fixture, follow these tips: Turn off the power to the area where you will be installing the fixture. Remove the old fixture, if applicable, and disconnect the wires. Mount the new fixture to the ceiling or wall using the provided hardware. Connect the wires from the fixture to the corresponding wires in the electrical box, following the manufacturer's instructions. Secure the fixture in place and test it to ensure it is working properly. Turn the power back on and enjoy your newly installed fluorescent light fixture.


How can I dim a fluorescent light?

You can dim a fluorescent light by using a dimmable ballast or a dimmer switch specifically designed for fluorescent lights. These devices control the amount of electricity flowing to the light, allowing you to adjust the brightness.


What are the benefits of using a 2 lamp fluorescent fixture compared to other types of lighting fixtures?

A 2 lamp fluorescent fixture is energy-efficient, provides bright light, and has a longer lifespan compared to other types of lighting fixtures.


Can a 175 watt metal halide bulb be used in a 100 watt ballast fixture?

No, a 175-watt metal halide bulb should not be used in a 100-watt ballast fixture. The wattage of the bulb must match the ballast's rating for optimal performance and safety. Using a bulb with a higher wattage than the ballast can lead to overheating, reduced lifespan, and potential damage to both the bulb and the ballast. Always ensure compatibility between the bulb and ballast specifications.