Flourescent Starter Thingys

[matt]

I have a very old fluorescent light fitting in my garage, however, neither of the tubes actually light up - they simply flicker.

I'm figuring that the starter things need replacing, however, they're not the usual sort. They're a bit bigger than the ones that you buy today and have four prongs instead of the usual two.

Anyone any idea whether I can get replacements or has the time come to change the whole unit?

Cheers

 

[Nigel]

Hi Matt I have not seen the 4 prong type for years and when I did see them they were in old fittings
would suggest electrical wholesaler or replace with new fittings

Nigel

 

[davy_owen_88]

If they are very old then I would just replace the whole thing. It'll probably be easier than trying to source the old parts anyway.

Davy

 

[tigerturnings]

A friend of mine who works for a large electrical wholesaler has just looked at this and seconded (thirded?) the advice to buy new fittings.

A typical price for a 6' switch start fitting should be about £10-£15 at trade prices.

Cheers

Neil

 

[Fizzy]

I know I have been lurking for a while but here goes with my 1st post .... I was in B&Q a week ago and they had 6' twin fluorescent light unit (with tubes and starters) for about £40-£45 new so maybe you would be better getting a new light. hope this helps.

 

[PowerTool]

Welcome to the forum,Fizzy

And I agree it's time to change the whole lot,not worth messing on for the price new lights are.

Andrew

 

[Losos]

Hi Fizzy
Welcome to the forum.

 

[Scott]

Welcome Fizzy

 

[Newbie_Neil]

Hi Fizzy

Welcome to the forum.

Cheers
Neil

 

[RobertMP]

I started in the commercial lighting industry in 1972. 4 pin starters had been obsolete for many years then!

Get a new fitting. More light and less power. As fluorescent lamps get older the light they produce falls - but they still use the same power. At the time it fails it could be down to 30% of a new lamps output.

All control gear from the major companies is now electronic. No chokes and starter switches anymore. Also it operates at 15-20kHz so no visible flashing or strobe effects.

I've just put up 2 GRP enclosure units in my workshop like these

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/FGDP258slashHF.html

Except I rescued mine from the old stock we disposed of when I closed my lighting business last year

 

[matt]

Thanks all. I've put the word out for some second-hand fluorescent fittings... Just have to wait now...