So, When Your Light Flashes ...

This Old Spouse

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but never quite comes on, does that mean the ballast is shot? Or the bulb?
 
Bulb

But if its not getting enough juice (ballast or outlet) it can do the same but 99% chance its the bulb
 
When I pulled it off the hood, the ballast was kind of flashing, too, which is why I wondered.
 
No, not sparking, just flashing like it's trying to kick in but doesn't quite "catch." I just tried to take a video, and of course it came on like nothing was wrong. 
confused.gif
 
It should definately be the bulb then. My work is full of flouresent lights and they will do exaxtly that, not work, then work and then just stop completely
 
Thanks. I was afraid of that. I might have been able to cannibalize another fixture, but I can't afford to replace the unusual-size bulb. 
sad.png
 
Wow, how much are they? I can find most any size for les than $20, less than $10 if I go generic, which may not be a 'plant' bulb, but works in a pinch.
 
It's a 24-inch bulb, which they don't even carry in town. I'd have to order it online. Probably not too expensive, but I have NO money right now.
 
So, how do I figure out how many lumens I need? I have a 29g that's 24 inches tall and never seems to get enough light. Between the light needs and fertilizer needs, I'm lost ...
 
I am well aquainted with No money. He's a constant companion. Him and the Bill family, especially, Unexpected.
As for lumens, well it's another language to me. I only have half lights at present, as only half the tank is lit, and with an old fixture.
I always go for if the plants grow, it's enough light.
 
By the way, It wont be the ballast flashing. The starter can light up and if it keeps flashing it's more likely the bulb if not the starter too.
 
The white cylindrical thingy is what kept flashing. Is that the starter?
 
That would be the starter yea, Mines sometimes does that when its trying to start the bulb up.
 

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