ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area flourescent light fixture

It still sounds like a poor ground, but I also agree that certain brand combinations can be troublesome.

We had problems with Lithonia 2x2 U-tube fixtures. Philips tubes worked where Sylvania didn't (or vice versa).

I agree with Larry......poor ground. Some fluorescent fixtures will not work without a ground....especially a problem when connecting them to knob and tube wiring.

How many times have you had the customer say "I put in new tubes but it still doesn't work", only to find that the tubes just needed to be turned fully into the ends?

Flourescent lamps can sometimes be a real pain in the butt. I've had some that would only fire off when you held a piece of tin foil between the lamp and the fixture frame.
All I can say is to check that the lamps are turned to their proper position, make sure the connections at the tombstones are good, and try other lamps.
As was stated earlier, T-8s with electronic ballasts are always a good alternative.

I've started using electronic ballasts as replacements in the T12 U tube fixtures and so far so good. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

-Hal

Isn't it hard to work that way?