Saturday, January 12, 2013

Replacing A Fluorescent Light

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. QUESTION:
    How do I replace a fluorescent light with 3 recessed lights? I have a fluorescent light in my kitchen that I need to get rid of. I've read up about adding recessed lights and they all say "run the power source to the light." Okay, but I'd like to get rid of the fluorescent, and swap it with 3 new recessed lights. I've also read when you replace lights to make sure you don't go over the current wattage. As it is now, there are two 40W fluorescent bulbs. I'd like to replace them with 3 60W energy saving bulbs, so it would actually be 14W each (42W total). So finally my question is: can I simply kill power to the room, disconnect the electrical line from the fluorescent, remove the fluorescent fixture, put three recessed lights in the same vicinity, split the electrical cable into 3 parts (3 red & 3 white), and connect that to my 3 new lights? Is that doable or is there something I'm not understanding. Thank you for the help.
    • ANSWER:
      You got it. Usually the wire will be black and white rather than red, but you are understanding it ok. Your wattage is fine. With the wire that is there you can even go bigger on the bulbs with no problem. 14 ga wire will handle 1400 watts total and that is the smallest wire used in home wiring. So even 3 100 watt bulbs would be fine. You are correct in your wiring. Make sure your connections are tight. Tug each wire to make sure it will not slip out of the wire nut.
  2. QUESTION:
    How easy is it to replace a fluorescent light fixture in the kitchen? I have a flourescsent light fixture in the kitchen which I do not like. The fixture uses two U-shaped flourescent tubes and is a pain in the neck (literally) to change the tubes. I'm thinking of changing the fixture into a ceiling light that uses compact flourescent bulbs instead. Because the fixture uses the U-shaped tubes, would replacing the fixture be any more difficult than if I was to replace a light fixture that didn't use a fluorescent light fixture? Is there anything special I'd have to do? thx
    • ANSWER:
      The only thing u have to do is turn off the breaker, and install the fixture of your choice. you don't need to hire an electrician or anyone else. Kill the power...Verify that its off. disconnect wiring. black to black, white to white, green or bare wire to the fixture body..make darn sure your connections are tight, secure fixture to box or ceiling....sit back and enjoy
  3. QUESTION:
    Is there anyway to cheaply replace fluorescent light fixtures? I am renting an apartment, and they have the "school room" fluorescent lights in all the rooms. They're hideous and bland. Is there anyway to replace the covers for them, with something modern... or a cheap way to replace them all together?. I looked online, and the fixtures are ridiculously expensive. Any ideas???
    • ANSWER:
      First off, you probably should have permission from the landlord before you make changes to the apartment. Not too many landlords want tenants messing around with electrical issues. Second off, if you get permission, you should hire a licensed electrician to do this. Too much liability for you if you DIY and burn the place down (think of the other tenants). As far as 'cheap' goes, you are probably going to be out of luck. Some florescent fixtures can take a variety of diffusers. But, I doubt that they are going to be cheap. Sorry if it isn't the answer that you wanted. But, I do believe that it is the truth.
  4. QUESTION:
    How much energy is saved by replacing fluorescent lights with sky lights in a school building? Only serious answers please...this is important. Thank you! :]
    • ANSWER:
      Skylights are a two way street in terms of energy usage. They do allow natural light into the building which can reduce the amount of electric light needed. On the other side of the equation the roof is where most of a building's heat loss happens. A skylight does not have as much insulating value as the rest of the roof so the heat lost through a skylight is an energy loss. In hot weather the skylight can be an unwelcome heat source from the sun adding to A/C costs. Because weather conditions vary from day to day and seasonally its difficult to determine the energy loss or gain from skylights.
  5. QUESTION:
    Does anyone get migraines triggered by fluorescent light (energy efficient) bulbs? I am dreading the day that they replace light bulbs everywhere with these. I am very sensitive and sometimes they can trigger migraines. I am wondering if anybody else has experiences this. I also can get migraines with flashing lights (like a light bulb that is going out at the office) or with a camera flash.
    • ANSWER:
      These things can also trigger epileptic seizures. The tube flashes on and off with the alternating electric current that powers them. That's why you can see flicker in old dying ones. As far the light emitted by common fluorescent lights, it is NOT A FULL SPECTRUM OF WAVELENGTHS. You should have FULL spectrum fluorescent tubes to replace the bulbs, NOT mercury vapor tubes as is most common, and you will find the light easier on the eyes.
  6. QUESTION:
    When installing a fluorescent light fixture, where to I run the wires from the ceiling to the light? I'm replacing a fluorescent light fixture. My old fixture has a big square hole in the middle. The black and white wires from the ceiling run through the hole and connect to the black and white wires in the fixture. However, this new fixture doesn't have a big hole in the middle. There are some really small holes though. Where exactly do I run the wires through? i'm using a lithonia brand two bulb light fixture
    • ANSWER:
      There should be at least one 1/2 inch knockout for this purpose, be sure however to protect the wires by using a 1/2 inch plastic bushing or romex connector that pops right into the hole. Make sure you connect the proper wires to the fixture wires & ground to the green screen screw on the fixture.
  7. QUESTION:
    can I replace fluorescent lighting with track ilghting? I have a boring old wide fluorescent light in my kitchen which looks dated and I'd like to replace it with some track lighting. Is it jus a matter of replacing the fixture itself or, will it require some rewiring?
    • ANSWER:
      If the lighting now is on a switch or switch's, your all set to go. You can replace the fixtures and more than likely repaint the ceiling since I ll guess the fluorescent fixtures are a different size and have been up awhile. GL
  8. QUESTION:
    Internet resources for replacing a fluorescent light with an incandescent light? We have a very ugly fluorescent light in our kitchen and we would like to replace it with an incandescent light. However, when I've been searching online for how-to information, it's very hard to come by. Most information is just about the benefits of having a fluorescent light over incandescent, which brings me to my first portion of the question: even if I put in an incandescent light, couldn't I still put in the compact fluorescent bulbs and save on the energy consumption/cost? Secondly, I need to find a good resource that can explain the process for doing the switch. A video would be ideal, but anything with good step by step instructions and accompanying photos would work. Thanks!
    • ANSWER:
      I think all you have to do is change the fixture, which is relatively easy as home projects go. With older fixtures(which is what I suspect you have) there won't be any incandescent bulbs to fit that. Thats why the whole fixture has to go. Just make sure the electricity is off to the room you are working in. Look for information on changing the fixture and you will find what you are looking for. http://www.ehow.com/how_2296169_change-light-fixtures.html http://www.squidoo.com/lightfixture I included a couple of links but there are many. A good investment is a how to fix thing around the house book. Many of these are at the library for free or at book stores to buy.
  9. QUESTION:
    Replacing a Fluorescent Light Bulb Transformer? I am behind in technology, I just found out they changed the Magnetic Transformers into Electric Transformers lol. There is no store that sells the exact version, however, they sell a version very similar. I am not very knowledgeable on this subject, so I wanted to know if you guys knew the answer. I want to replace the Advance Transformer R-2E75-S-3-TP with this model http://www.amazon.com/Satco-F96T12-Instant-Slimline-Ballast/dp/B000UX3YB4/ref=sr_1_13?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1325902416&sr=1-13 I was just wondering if this is safe/possible? For extra information, I want to use this for 2 F96T12 60W 1.15~Amp fluorescent light bulbs.
    • ANSWER:
      I totally agree with Stan. The new fixtures come with electronic ballasts which should be more reliable than the old transformer ballasts. Furthermore, 48" tubes are commonplace, come in a wide variety of color temperatures, and are reasonably priced. We had an old, 8' fluorescent fixture in our laundry room. The ballast died a horrible and smelly death. We replaced it with three, 4' fixtures. It was a very good decision. If you are capable of replacing a ballast transformer, then you should be capable of wiring for an additional, 4' fixture to give you more light, if you wish. Just make sure power to the lights is off before you start work and make sure to get your work inspected by the municipality/county you live in.
  10. QUESTION:
    How can I fix my Fluorescent light? I have a fluorescent light in my bathroom. It started to flicker so I replace the light bulbs. Two weeks later, it is doing it again? What is the problem? How do I fix it?
    • ANSWER:
      Sounds like you need a new ballast, the black rectangular object inside the fixture. Turn off the light, remove the lamp/s and pan. Inside you will see a ballast with 8 wires. Disconnect the black and white wires. Now cut the red, blue and yellow wires, about 6 inches from the ballast. Remove the ballast supporting screw and the ballast will come out. It is heavier than it appears, so be ready. It may also be leaking a tarry substance, avoid touching this. Make note of the numbers on the ballast (eg. F40 - T12) and dispose of it. Install a ballast with the same markings. Connect the wires colour to colour, 1 red to 1 red, 1 blue to 1 blue, 1 yellow to 1 yellow and the same with the rest. Last connections are white to white and black to black. Use marrettes to make these joints. (Be sure to pick up new lamp/s and 6 # 31 marrettes when buying the ballast.) Reinstall the pan and lamps. That's it, hit the switch.
  11. QUESTION:
    Can I replace a fluorescent light fixture with ballast with a florescent light fixture without a ballast? My kitchen light fixture cover fell off, the clips that held the cover in place all cracked off. the light and ballast, florescent tubes (2 of them) all work, they are just ugly and I want to replace them. Since there is a ballast, I am unsure if I can replace them with a light fixture that doesn't have a ballast.
    • ANSWER:
      If you replace to ENTIRE fixture, it doesn't matter what the old fixture used. The NEW fixture should have everything needed to connect directly to your home wiring.
  12. QUESTION:
    How to fault detect a bad fluorescent light fixture? A few of my under counter fluorescent fixtures in the kitchen don't work. they are all less than 3 years old. I replace the light bulb, but it still doesn't light. How do you test what part of the fixture has failed- ie the ballast, a connection, etc
    • ANSWER:
      It is actually quite uncommon to find flourescent fixtures that use starters anymore unless they are very old. If the fixture is that old it would most likely be cost effective to simple replace the fixture. Starters are not expensive, but may be difficult to find and there are more energy efficient fixtures on the market today that also offer more pleasing light colors. If your fixture is newer and doesnt have a starter or even if it does have a starter there will be a ballast and this is the most likely reason for failure or the light to come on. A ballast is simply a transformer that boosts your household voltage to a voltage that is needed to cause the gas inside the tube to "burn". Standard mechanical ballasts will eventually wear out. This is often evidenced by visually inspecting the ballast where you will often times find a black tarry substance leaking from the case of the ballast. The ballast, by the way, will be located inside the cover of the fixture, it is not exposed. Newer flourescent fixtures will have an electronic ballast that often will look like a small printed circuit board like that as you may find in a radio. If you feel comfortable replacing the ballast it is a fairly simple procedure. First be absolutely sure that you have turned the circuit off before attempting to replace a ballast. Simply turning the light switch off is not good enough. You can check to see that the circuit is off by testing with a circuit tester that does not require live contact. These are available at hardware stores. The tester will "chirp" if voltage is present. Also once you think the circuit is off, check with a "wiggy" tester, also available from a hardware store. This tester requires live contact with the wiring. Always check your testers on a known live outlet before proceeding to the circuit in question to ensure that the tester works properly. Once you are sure the circuit is turned off you can proceed with replacing the ballast. It is a simple process of disconnecting the wires from the faulty ballast and removing it then install the new ballast matching the colors of the wires. To make sure that you purchase the correct ballast you can either look at the label of the old ballast or tell the clerk at the store about your fixture. Is it an 8 foot, 2 tube fixture or a 4 foot 4 tube, 18 inch single tube fixture, just let the clerk know. Again consider that if the fixture is old just replacing the entire fixture. Warning: You have been told to be sure the circuit is off before working on the fixture. Household current can be DEADLY if you come into contact with it. If you do not understand how to use a circuit tester or are at all uncomfortable with working with electricity call an electrician. This type of repair is quite inexpensive and you will be certain that the job is done right and safely. I will assume NO responsibility if you decide to perform this repair yourself. Often times it is much less costly to hire a professional than to put yourself at risk.
  13. QUESTION:
    does the landlord or renter replace fluorescent overhead lights? we have a fluorescent light on the ceiling of our kitchen, it is like one of those big bulbs with 4 feet of twisted pipe that looks pricey to replace. At first I thought as the renters we should replace the light bulbs, but my roommates insist our landlord should do it. I found here questions confirming my stance, but they all seem to be talking about regular screw in incandescent type light bulbs
    • ANSWER:
      You (the renter) pay for light bulbs. I have the florescent ones you're talking about in my bathroom, only they are smaller, but they still cost about each...I pay for them. The landlord wasn't using them to make them burn out, you were.
  14. QUESTION:
    Replace fluorescent lights with rope lights? I have fluorescent lights underneath my cabinets in the kitchen. Is it possible to replace them with rope lights that can connect to a light switch?
    • ANSWER:
      Yes, it's possible, BUT... IF the light wiring is connected directly "INTO" a light switch, that project needs to be done either by an Electrician, OR someone who really KNOWS WHAT he/she is doing!!!!! Another remote possibility is, IF you have a receptacle that is CONTROLLED BY a light switch, then plug the light string into that outlet. Another less expensive option is to simply plug and unplug the light string as needed.
  15. QUESTION:
    Flickering fluorescent light replaced, still flickering!!? We have two fluorescent lights in our shop. They are both plugged in to the same outlet. One of them was flickering so we replaced the bulbs. It still flickered so we figured it was a bad ballast and replaced that too. The damned light is still flickering! So we switched the plugs in the outlet and it made no difference. So we thought maybe that outlet couldn't take having two lights plugged in, so we unplugged the one not flickering.. Still made no difference. Damned thing is still flickering. Any suggestions? Herb, The first fixture we had for about a year before we could replace it. We replaced it entirely. Fixture and bulbs are all brand new. We got the bulbs the package said to get. Tried the bulb swapping, same light still flickers. But it can't be the ballast, that was the first thing we replaced.
    • ANSWER:
      To complete the troubleshooting i would recommend you move the lamps to a different outlet. Preferably on a different circuit. If they no longer flicker then atleast you can isolate the issue to the outlet and not the lights.
  16. QUESTION:
    Why the traditional Idea bulb as an incandescent light bulb is replaced by Fluorescent light bulb? why is it happening so ?
    • ANSWER:
      Energy efficiency. An incandescent bulb wastes a lot of power as heat, as the filament must glow "white hot" to emit white light. The fluorescent light emission is a (near) cold process. Thus more energy efficient, less power is required to produce white light.
  17. QUESTION:
    In NYC ConEd replaced light bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps but now I can't insert a regular bulb? Seems like there is a piece of plastic left in the light fitting which prevents a normal edison screw bulb from fitting in there... I guess to force us to use the CFLs. This happened in the bathroom with the vanity lights - so there aren't many standards for that.
    • ANSWER:
      A CFL fits in the exact same socket as an incandescent. If you can't gt a regular bulb in there look for something broken in the socket. Do not look for a conspiracy.
  18. QUESTION:
    How to pick standard fluorescent light bulbs? I want to replace my incandescent light bulbs with standard fluorescent light bulbs but the problem is that fluorescent light bulbs happens to be extremely dim and the area in which light spreads is really small. I bought a 150W replacement which consumes 30W but when i compare the luminosity and area which light spreads is worse than a 80W incandescent light bulb. Any tips on how to choose the right fluorescent light bulb?
    • ANSWER:
      Fluorescent lights are good way to provide natural light spectrum to your indoor garden while cutting down the waste heat produced by the light bulbs. you can find better options as per your requirement...
  19. QUESTION:
    If we replace light bulbs with fluorescent ones, what do we do with the unwanted incandescent ones we removed? Won't they just end up in the waste stream? Is there a eco-freiendly way to discard them? I now have only fluorescent bulbs throught out my home, but I'm also stuck with a box full of incandescent bulbs I don't want and probably can't even give away
    • ANSWER:
      I have to take a different position that a few of the other answerers here. While there are non-profits, schools, and poor people who might gladly accept your old incandescent bulbs, you must NOT let them get re-used. Why not? Because then there might not be an actual reduction in carbon emissions. Think about it. Your old bulb created a relatively large amount of carbon emission. Your new CFL bulb will create much less carbon emission, but it will still generate some. If you give your old bulb to someone who might not have otherwise used that bulb, there could well be a NET INCREASE in global warming as a result of your actions - as both your old bulb and a new one would be in use. "Our goal is not just to reduce our PERSONAL carbon emissions, but to think about how to reduce OVERALL carbon emissions, also." You will be hard pressed to find a convenient way to recycle your old bulbs. I fear your best bet is to simply throw them away. Yes, you are prematurely increasing trash going to landfill, but I believe that's a reasonable trade-off for the certainty of years of reduced carbon emissions. GreenJoe.com says "Out with the brown, in with the green!"
  20. QUESTION:
    how do you replace a fluorescent light and what if it doesnt turn on when you change the bulb? you wouldnt think this would be such a hard task, but i am having soo much trouble trying to figure out why these new bulbs wont turn on ...
    • ANSWER:
      Hire an insured handyman. Mark
  21. QUESTION:
    My loft fluorescent light isn't working. I've tried replacing the starter and bulb, which didn't work? ? I've tried both of these things, and have verified that the new ones work by testing them in a similar light in the kitchen. I've noticed a grey cable running from the light to the switch, and have checked inside the switch, all of which seems to be fastened correctly. Any help would be greatly appreciated. croasr
    • ANSWER:
      Is it a fused switch, in which case check the fuse? Then check your fuse board- the light may have been put in on a dedicated fuse and the micro switch may have tripped. Follow the wire back and see if it is broken anywhere- it may have been chewed by rodents, though one would expect the RCD to trip in that case. Finally, have you removed or switched off anything else that is normally on? I’m thinking that whoever installed the light in the loft ran it from another circuit (a 'spur’) and it may be reliant on another switch being on. Finally, the fitting itself may be faulty. Apart from that , don’t know! Good luck- and be careful. Electricity kills!
  22. QUESTION:
    Any tips on replacing fluorescent bulbs with LEDs in light box displays? Several days ago,I have got a LED display from http://www.stage-lights.com/ProductsType/Outdoor-Full-color-LED-Display.htm yet I cannot figure out how to assemble? Are there any tips on replacing flurescent bulbs with LEDs in light box displays? Please have you suggestive solutions as well as instructions.
    • ANSWER:
      You might as well try to consult seller from the original site.
  23. QUESTION:
    Do all 4 feet, two bulb, fluorescent light fixtures give off the same brightness? I would like to replace a flourescent light fixture in my bedroom. Do all two bulb, 4 feet fixtures give off the same light? I've seen some cheaper ones called utility lights. Will they work?
    • ANSWER:
      Anything will work in there as long as the ballast can supply the correct voltage. It's pretty standardized. The rule of thumb is that if the tube will fit, it will light. Between coatings, operating pressures, gasses, electrodes, and voltages from ballast, there is a lot of variation in light brightness and quality. Just find what you like.
  24. QUESTION:
    How do I fix Fluorescent light? I recently installed 4(2 bulb) fluorescent lights -about a month ago. They worked fine til recently one bulb in one light went out. Replaced bulb same thing??? New fixtures so no "starter". If ballast was bad wouldn't it affect both bulbs?
    • ANSWER:
      Its not the Ballast first of all. Sometimes bulbs will go bad fast depending on shipping mishandling where inner filaments are damaged some or manufacturers. Just replace both bulbs instead of just 1. See how long it will last. If they burn out again then you have a short in the end connectors. Dont bother changing the ballasts.I recommend a return for a totally new fixture before the manufacturer warranty runs out.
  25. QUESTION:
    will a regular fluorescent light fixture work with a blacklight lightbulb? i have a normal average fluorescent light fixture like one you would find in a store or a school. my question is would i be able to just take a black light lightbulb and replace the normal white one? or is there a difference in the two light tubes?
    • ANSWER:
      Yes.
  26. QUESTION:
    Can I replace a fluorescent tube light fixture (like the ones in an office) with a normal incandescent one? My house was built in the 80s and the washrooms, kitchen and basement all use the fluorescent tubes. I want to slowly start changing them all.
    • ANSWER:
      Yes. You would just have to change out the fixture to something you like. I personally prefer fluorescents, but everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
  27. QUESTION:
    We recently had to replace a wall mounted fluorescent light, with a smaller one, what to do with wires? It was a wall mounted light above the kitchen sink. The wires previously ran behind the light, but since the new one is smaller they have to run across the front of the wood plate. I was thinking white electrician's tape, or to simply paint over them. Drilling another hole to run the wire isn't necessarily an option currently. Looking for a reasonable temporary solution that is more appealing to the eye than simply leaving the wires exposed. The light is mounted on the lower part of the windows that are above our kitchen sink. The wood is maybe 1/4 or 1/2 inch thick and runs the length of the wall. Also, it is about 12 inches from the sink, so placing something to hide it is out of the question.
    • ANSWER:
      Surface mounted raceways may be your answer. Search "surface raceway" for Ideas of whats available. Most home centers carry them, or can order them for you. Good luck.
  28. QUESTION:
    Do all compact fluorescent light bulbs make that annoying humming sound when you turn them on? I just replaced my burnt out light bulbs in my room with compact fluorescent ones & when ever they are on, they make a really annoying humming/buzzing sound like the larger ones do. Are there any particular types or brands that don't or am I stuck with the sound.
    • ANSWER:
      the balasts or faulty and you may be near other electrical.
  29. QUESTION:
    Is it possible to change a 4' standard fluorescent light fixture ballast and replace with a 3' bulb? Is it possible to use the same ballast from a 4 feet light fixture and use it with a 3 feet florescent light bulb?
    • ANSWER:
      The fluorescent ballasts are designed to operate specifically desingned fluorescent bulbs. It takes a higher voltage to start a 4 foot fluorescent bulb than a 3 foot fluorescent bulb. You will definitely greatly shorten the life of the 3 foot fluorescent bulb if you connect it to a fluroescent ballast desingned for a 4 foot fluorescent bulb if it does not burn out almost immediately.
  30. QUESTION:
    Can you replace a fluorescent ceiling light with a regular current one?
    • ANSWER:
      You can, the wires that feed the ballast can be connected to regular sockets. You won't greatly increase the power you use if you select CFL lamps. Be selective about what style of fixture you select, most incandescent bulbs are being eliminated, you will probably end up using CFL or LED lamps after all.
  31. QUESTION:
    Why is my fluorescent kitchen light staying ON even when the switch on OFF and even disconnected? A few days ago the fixture stayed ON when I switched it to OFF and has stayed on at full strength since then. I pulled the fuse today and took out the wall switch, planning to get another and replace it. The light came BACK ON when I replaced the fuse, even with the switch sitting on the table. What should I do?
    • ANSWER:
      Do other fluorescent lights light up as well, if so you may have something in or near your house emitting a strong electromagnetic field. An EMF can light fluorescent bulbs without them being screwed in. Take a fluorescent bulb and get it close to one of those plasma ball things like at Spencer's. When it gets close the bulb will light up. The EMF excites the particles and the bulb lights.
  32. QUESTION:
    How do you remove wires from fluorescent light sockets? I need to replace a ballast in a fluorescent light fixture but can't remove the wires from the sockets. I can push the wires in but not out. Is there some way to remove them or are these going to have to be replaced? Is it normal to have to replace the sockets when you replace the ballast? Thanks
    • ANSWER:
      They DO come out of the sockets and that IS the right way to fix them. With the power off take a pliers and grip the wire close to the socket. Pull and twist until the wire comes out. it's not soldered or anything so feel free to pull hard, just hang on to the socket so you don't break it. Simply push in the new wire and you're done.
  33. QUESTION:
    Which uses less energy? A LED track lighting fixture or a fluorescent lighting fixture? In replacing my lighting fixture, I'm trying to figure out which might be more energy efficient. Would it be, an LED track lighting fixture with four 50W bulbs, or a square fluorescent lighting fixture with two 40W tubes?
    • ANSWER:
      There isn't much difference there. I would be more concerned about the light the fixture puts out and how it affects my eyes. Watts divided by voltage (ballast not line) = amps. Amps make the meter spin. At 120 V you are looking at .3 to .4 amp difference between the two.
  34. QUESTION:
    Fluorescent light needs replaced? I have two, four foot T12 light strips. The lights have been taking longer and longer to turn on. An electrician said I need a ballast and that I might as well get new strips (fixtures). I got some new T12 strips and then saw that people favored T8s. So I returned them and saw that T8s are more expensive, so got the T12s again. Then I read about starters, but I can't find one on either one of these. I'm wondering now if I really need to replace these or just the tubes (bulbs).
    • ANSWER:
      Hello. My name is Richie. I am a 26 year electrician and a home improvement expert. I will help you the best I can. Consider this, get rid of the fixture and get a new one or replace the ballast with a new one that is for T8 lamps. T12 lamps are phased out. They are no longer made since last year, same goes for 100 watt incandescent bulbs. &5 watt bulbs will go next. If you go to Lowes, a two lamp ballasts cost and a four lamp ballast cost . Then you need new T8 lamps. Most are a pair. Don't worry, the T8 lamps pin ratio is the same as the T12. Good luck and God Bless. Jesus Christ loves you.
  35. QUESTION:
    Can I replace my tank light with fluorescent light? I have the Aqueon 10 and I have some brackish fish (figure 8 puffer, getting some bumblebee gobies) and it looks weird because they are part saltwater fish in an orange light. The color of the light looks really ugly, and I was wondering if I could replace it with a fluorescent one? Also, I want to replace my gravel with sand. How do I do that without getting rid of the beneficial bacteria? @Harsh How do I siphon something out? Do I need any extra materials @Harsh and Pytr I have a hose but its old and I didn't know the term for it. I will probably get it when I get my gobies (tank is new)
    • ANSWER:
      Yes, fluorescent lights are good as are halides. What looks nice in reef aquariums is a 50/50 blue/white light. To change from gravel to sand, siphon out half of your water into a bucket, put all ornaments, plants and fish into that bucket. I suggest putting your heater in the bucket to keep the fish warm as the process takes about an hour. So as of now you should have a tank half filled with water and gravel on the bottom and a filter in there. You can also put the filter in the bucket and have that run. If it doesn't just turn it off and let it be. Now, scoop out the gravel with some sort of container (careful not to scratch or break the glass). After you have taken out as much as possible, dispose of the gravel as you wish and siphon out the gravel and waste remnants along with the rest of the water out and dispose of the liquid. I recommend you clean the sides of the aquarium with a washcloth of some sort at this point. After you have done this and you have a nice spotless aquarium, pour in the sand (which you should clean). After you have the sand in, you can either plant and decorate it dry or do that after you fill the water. Careful not to disturb the sand when pouring in water; I recommend using a bowl to slow the force of the water as your pour. Fill the water a little less than halfway (make sure you condition it and all). From the bucket with the fish and water now, remove the heater and let it and the filter run for about 15 minutes. As this is happening pour a little bit of water from the bucket with the fish gradually. Once there is like half of the water left in the bucket, go ahead and put the fish in and pour the rest of the water in. The ornaments and filter should have held enough beneficial bacteria and your fish will appreciate their new substrate! Good luck! By the way, if your ornaments have holes, please be sure that your fish aren't hiding inside the ornament or within the plants. This happened with me and my cories. They were INSIDE of the ornament and out of water for ten minutes. Luckily, I had no deaths. But with puffers, you never know. They too are small. EDIT: To siphon something out, you need to purchase a gravel vacuum. It's basically a hose. You can use a regular tube that is of at least one inch in diameter. My siphon has a pump but there's a manual way to siphon using a tube that you can look up. It's everywhere. But I would recommend purchasing a pump action gravel vacuum siphon anyways as you should be performing water changes with it every week anyways. They're like -5.
  36. QUESTION:
    Can I replace a 75 watt rated light fixture with 3 separate - 23 watt compact fluorescent lights safely? I want to know if i need to replace / update the wiring.
    • ANSWER:
      Yes, you should be able to do this switch safely as long as you shut off the power source to the light either by the wall switch or from the circuit breaker. You asked about replacing/updating the wiring. Is there a reason for you to suspect that it needs replacing? The existing wires should be just fine unless there is visible damage or the insulation is hard and brittle from the heat of the light fixture. Anyways, the short answer is yes, you can make this change safely. Good luck!! Steve
  37. QUESTION:
    How do you feel about the incandescent light bulb being replaced with Compact Fluorescent bulbs? I don't like Compact Fluorescent bulbs because the light they give out is not the same as a regular light bulb. I prefer the use of halogens in my home. They use more energy, but the light output is much more crisp. How about you Do you like Fluorescent bulbs or regular light bulbs?
    • ANSWER:
      I love the new CFL's CFLs save up to 75% less energy because they operate at lower temperatures and they last up to 10 times longer than incandescent light bulbs. To me this sounds like a no brainier. I save money on my electric bill and they last a lot longer. I know they cost more upfront, but in the life span of the bulb it is a lot cheaper to use CFL's and recycle it than use the halogen bulbs. Everyone is right they do contain Mercury, but for a few dollars you can recycle them through the mail. It is still cheaper to buy and recycle a CFL. Than to use a halogen light bulb. I go to https://veoliaes-ts.com/RecyclePak/RecyclePak%20Order?id=1064 to recycle my light bulbs. It is fastest and easiest way I have found.
  38. QUESTION:
    I replaced all the fluorescent light bulbs in an existing fixture but cannot stop them from flickering-- ???
    • ANSWER:
      You might need to replace the fixture's ballast.
  39. QUESTION:
    Landlords: How do you minimize your risk of being sued by Tenants? I recently read this: Lawsuits of all stripes prey on landlords' minds. Jackson said his company provides many services to his renters just to avoid legal hassles. "Early on," he said, "one of my tenants borrowed my lawnmower. He hit a piece of metal in the grass. His roommate was sunning himself nearby and the metal flew up and opened a gash in his forehead. The roommate sued me. Now we do all the lawns, replace fluorescent light, repair the windows; I don't want tenants doing anything."
    • ANSWER:
      As long as you do everything right you really only have to worry about nut jobs. Nothing will prevent a lawsuit from a nut job. however, they show their true colors in court, so it is not a big worry. However, I do check my applicants back ground, and seeing who they have sued in the past is part of that. If they have more then 1 lawsuit I avoid them
  40. QUESTION:
    light is buzzing any ideas? i have a 5 ft fluorescent light in my kitchen and it buzzes (only when its on). i am painting the ceiling this weak (white with a snickle of mint) Lol. and was wondering any advice on; is problem fixable or should i just replace light. many thanks for any answers in advance.
    • ANSWER:
      bulb or the ballast is going. probably the ballast. probably cheaper to replace the light at this point.
  41. QUESTION:
    Shattered Fluorescent lamp bulb. Do we clean everything? We were fixing a kitchen light and had to replace those fluorescent light bulbs (the long tube ones you see in offices and schools), and one shattered over the sink and some shards got onto clean dishes. Do I have to rewash and clean everything? I heard these bulbs have mercury in them.
    • ANSWER:
      YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Please, clean everything. I know it will take some time, but it's worth it.The big fat ones had a lot of mercury in them. (T-12) The newer ones (T-8) don't have any. This is why the old ones are being phased out.
  42. QUESTION:
    What's the problem with my fluorescent light bulbs? About a month ago I replaced the fluorescent bulbs in my kitchen and now they don't come on all the way. It's like I am only getting half the wattage from them. Then some times it comes on completely bright. and it stays that way until I turn it off and the next evening turn it back on. What is the solution?
    • ANSWER:
      Depending on how much of the time you use those lights, you might consider leaving them on all the time. It may even be cheaper in electricity consumption. Fluorescent lights consume a large power surge when turning on, but use very little power once lit. So if you turn them off and on several times per day you may well be better off just leaving them on. And that would also solve your starter problem.
  43. QUESTION:
    Rough quote for removing a kitchen light? Any of you wonderful electricians of the UK out there able to give me a rough (rough without seeing obviously) quote for removing a standard kitchen fluorescent strip light and replacing it with a smal three angled spot light and dimmer switch? The lights will have been bought before hand so all that needs to be done is to install it and the dimmer switch.
    • ANSWER:
      £65. Make sure the work is certified, ie a Minor Works certificate as mentioned. The circuit must be tested to make sure its safe for continued service before any work can be carried out. Any old charlatan can say £20 but he's not assuming responsibility for his work without certification. There will also be a small charge for safe disposal of the fluorescent tube as it contains mercury which is a controlled substance.
  44. QUESTION:
    Question about fluorescent light fixtures. Do they unplug? Suppose you have to service a fluorescent light fixture in an office. However, you can't turn off the circut as that would shut down power to other areas of the office, which people don't want to happen. Could you do things such as replacing the ballast or a cracked socket. I would imagine that you couldn't do this. If I'm right, how could someone repair a fluorescent light fixture of the kind you find in offices and buildings. Is there a way to unplug it like you can with the ones you commonly find in people's basements?
    • ANSWER:
      you can only unplug it if it has been wired that way. If it is wired in a series with other lights, then there is no way and than killing power, to shut it off.
  45. QUESTION:
    Stronger alternative to fluorescent light panels? My mother has a cracked kitchen fluorescent light panel and would like to replace them with something with some kind of 3m stained glass film. I suggested a thin sheet of plexiglass, but how thin, where to buy them and has anyone done this before?
    • ANSWER:
      http://www.fluorescentgallery.com/
  46. QUESTION:
    Why Are My New Fluorescent Light Bulbs Flickering? I recently replaced the incandescent bulbs in my ceiling fan light with fluorescent bulbs. Now, whenever I turn on my light, the bulbs seem to gently flicker. Is this common for newly installed fluorescent bulbs or might there be a problem with the wiring/installation?
    • ANSWER:
      Crap bulbs, return them and get new one
  47. QUESTION:
    Installing a fluorescent light fixture to replace an incandescent bulb...? Do I need to turn the power off at the circuit box, or can I just turn the light switch off. Problem is... I have to get a key off of someone to get to the circuit box. This is paid work, but there are always logistic issues. At this point the fixture is in place, the buildings wires need to be connected to the fluorescent fixture (they are still connected to the incandescent bulb). Thank you for your answers. I get what guys are saying. I think a meter is definitely going to be what I need. Thanks for your careful responses. I appreciate it.
    • ANSWER:
      The safest and most correct response is to turn off the circuit breaker. That being said, you can do it by turning off the switch, but it isn't recommended. If you have a meter you can turn off the switch and check the wires for power if there are more in the box than JUST those from the switch. I would do it myself, but I NEVER advise others to do it. I do not know your knowledge base, so I don't want to get you killed. Now if you are good at reading between the lines, you will know what to do. {wink} Al
  48. QUESTION:
    How do I make the light from my fluorescent lightbulbs look warmer in color? I just replaced my regular light bulbs with cfl's in an effort to do my part in protecting the environment. But I'm feeling really conflicted now, because the cfl light is just horrible, and makes all the warm colors in my apartment look dull and washed-out. Is there a way to make the light look more like the light from a regular light bulb?? Please help. Thanks.
    • ANSWER:
      You probably got "cool white" tubes. There are many different kinds with different color spectrums. You probably want "Warm White", hence the term. They're a little harder to find, but any electrical parts store should have them.
  49. QUESTION:
    need tips on starting f40 rapid start fluorescent lights in an area with high humidity? Once the bulbs have started they work perfectly, but the only way to start them is continuously flick the wall switch til the bulbs light. Have replaced the bulbs and ballasts within the last week. Is there any way to add an old fashioned starter into the system?
    • ANSWER:
      Although you just replaced the ballast, my suggestion would be to refit/replace the fixture with f32 ballast and bulbs as f40 bulbs will no longer be available in the near future.
  50. QUESTION:
    Can the wiring/volts for a 2 tube fluorescent light fixture (being replaced) handle 2 hanging pendant lights? Hi. I am planning to take a fluorescent light down that is over my kitchen sink (it has 2 tubes in it) and wire in two pendant lights (that are separate). Each pendant light is 100 watts and they are on separate fixtures. Will the original wiring be able to handle the 200 watts? Do I need to add wire? Can I do this myself? Erin, You said I need more wiring and another box, does this mean that I only need the one wire though that goes to the fluorescent now. My brother may be doing this and his wife thought the 2 100 watt fixtures would overload the wire and blow a fuse, i.e. so it won't work. So one wire (that went to the fluorescent) - hang pendant light 100 watts - add a wire to this wire that will reach to the next pendant light 100 watt spot?
    • ANSWER:
      yes but you will need more wire for the second light

Friday, January 4, 2013

Up Lighting Fixtures

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. QUESTION:
    Where can I find 8ft blacklight bulbs to fit up in florescent lighting fixtures? We're opening a bar and almost done remodeling. I just need to find these bulbs to finish the look that I really want.
    • ANSWER:
      Try Spencer's Gifts at the Mall. Also, try any lighting supply house. If they don't have them, they can order them. A new bar! Sweet! Just don't be your own best customer! Haha!
  2. QUESTION:
    How can I light up my room (lighting fixtures)? Okay, so my room has no ceiling light. I just have a few lamps and an open window to let in light. At night it's fine, having the room be a bit dim. BUT - During the day, it feels so gloomy! Having a dimly lit room and seeing out the window that it's a sunny day is just depressing feeling. I want my room to be fully lit. Without having an electrician come in to install a light in my ceiling, are there any lighting fixtures I can get on my own that will really do a good job of lighting up my room? Not just a lamp that lights up things within a few feet of it.
    • ANSWER:
      You could add mirrors to your room. Having them close to the existings lights will relect the light around the room. They also make floor lamps that have an arch and have one or several lights on them.
  3. QUESTION:
    Can I hook up these light fixtures on my own or do i need an electrician? I already have a light fixture hooked up on the ceiling i just want to switch it out with the new one. There are a lot of wires and a ground wire. Do i need to hook the ground wire to both brackets on the fixture or will one be OK. I have never done this before so I dont know if i should just leave it to an electrician or do it myself since their already is one hooked up.
    • ANSWER:
      if you feel confident you can do it,get a friend to help just hook up the light the same as what is existing one ground is sufficient...have a voltmeter handy test for power,after turning off circuit,don't work any circuit hot.
  4. QUESTION:
    i plan too hook up 4 light fixtures and 3 wall outlets on a 15 amp breaker. is this too much power? i plan too use 4 24 watt energy effecient bulbs in the light fixtures, and a tv, dvd and stereo. well considering the house i just bought is an old house, almost half of the house is run on a single 15 amp breaker. I am trying to fix the problem one room at a time. Now i am running into the problem of almost maxes out at 200 amps at the box.
    • ANSWER:
      House wiring is a permanent thing and should be kept at a quality level, not just for present use but also for people using it in the future.They should be able to use it with confidence that safe and reliable standards have been met. ( pretty cool speech ) I would recommend 15 Amp with 14AWG for lights and 20 Amp with 12 AWG for outlets and I would not recommend cheapy outlets.
  5. QUESTION:
    Need to fix fluorescent kitchen lights- fixtures not lighting up completely. Any ideas? I bought new bulbs for my 2 kitchen lights thinking my bulbs were burned out but they're still not working right. I have a round fluorescent light fixture as well as a fixture that contains 6 very long lights. I turn the switch on & it turns on but very very faintly like it's not getting enough power or something. Is this something I can fix myself or should I call an electrician? I don't have too much experience with this stuff but do have a little bit of general knowledge. Any ideas anyone?
    • ANSWER:
      You probably have an old fixture with a magnetic ballast driving T12 bulbs. T12 means 12/8ths of an inch, in other words 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Virtually all such fixtures, standard before about 1988, are driven by a magnetic ballast that lasts at least 25 years (often much longer) but is fairly inefficient and makes an annoying flicker. Bulbs driven by magnetic ballasts strobe at 60 times a second, the same speed as AC power. Your ballast, or the starter which is really a replaceable part of the ballast, is dying, and should be replaced. Switch to a fixture with T8 bulbs (one inch in diameter) driven by an electronic ballast, which will strobe at about 20,000 times a second. That will eliminate your flicker and give you better lighting and better efficiency (since a 4 foot T8 uses between 25 and 34 watts, rather than 40, per bulb, to put out the same amount of light.) A new shop light type fixture currently costs .50 at Home Depot, so it doesn't make sense to just replace the ballast alone and fiddle with the wiring. Since every T8 fixture is electronic, and strobes at that fast rate, all you have to do is look for a T8 fixture. If your current fixture is hard wired, you might have to have someone a little bit handy in to put in a terminal box to plug the new fixture in, or buy a hard wired fixture for about , but it's worth it. I assume you have one of those recessed box part-of-the-ceiling type kitchen arrangements, with a 'lens' (see through plastic sheeting) between you and the lights, so no one will ever see what kind of fixture you put up there. You don't need to get anything pretty. Once you've done that, I'd recommend getting full spectrum bulbs for your new long fixture - try lightforhealth.com. Unfortunately, as far as I know, you can't replace the round fixture with a similar electronic ballast type fixture. No one makes an electronic-ballast version of a Circline fixture. You might just have to live with that until it completely dies, or replace it with a compact fluorescent (which fits a regular light socket), wiring up a regular closet-type ceramic socket, but that would also require a little rewiring. No help for that. Or if you're willing to do the drywalling and painting required, you could put in a recessed can fixture, with a compact fluorescent in there. I'm hardly an electrician, but this isn't much of a challenge if you're willing to get into the wiring a little. You'll get instructions in any new fixture on how to wire it into your existing setup.
  6. QUESTION:
    Name of up down exterior light fixtures? what is the category name of wall mounted outside light fixtures where there are 2 lights - 1 shines up and the other down. it's a cylinder shaped fixture. i'm looking for 2 of these fixtures in a brushed nickel finish.
    • ANSWER:
      They are just a type of exterior wall sconce.
  7. QUESTION:
    Just curious~Why in mobile homes do they not put light fixtures up...? In lots of mobile homes I've been in there isn't light fixtures in the livingroom or in some double wides no light fixtures in the bedroom...I've always wonder why...lol.....anyone know? I said "in lots" I didn't say ALL...because mine does just some that I've been in doesn't
    • ANSWER:
      Some actually do have light fixtures, but not installing fixtures and the wiring cuts the costs of manufacturing them, they figure the poeple can just put lamps in the rooms.
  8. QUESTION:
    How do crickets get stuck up in the ceiling light fixtures? I have always wondered this as a child; I still don't understand how crickets would get into the ceiling... How do they get up there? I know they have wings but the fixtures are sealed closed!
    • ANSWER:
      there is a small crack that you just don't see somewhere on the light.
  9. QUESTION:
    How can I fix up my bathroom lighting without replacing the fixture? I live in an apartment in which we cannot replace fixtures n' stuff. The lighting in my bathroom is hideous. It has a long metal panel on the wall above the mirror with three light bulbs screwed into it. CFL bulbs aren't exactly pretty to look at. Is there something I could get to kind of cover the thing up with? I think it's the silliest thing ever! Who want to be staring into three lightbulbs anyway?
    • ANSWER:
      Seperate bulbs are a very common bath fixture. The simplist thing to do is put clear round bulbs in place of CFL - why would you even think of CFL in this application. It ain't the fixture - it's you.
  10. QUESTION:
    Why do some bathroom wall fixtures say "Wall mount only this side up"? The light fixture I bought is meant to hang with the lights hanging down, but I want to hang it with the lights up because it looks better that way. Does it say to hang it down because the 3 glass shades are too heavy to be pointing up? Should I just hang it up anyway instead of hanging down? The fixture looks similar to this one: http://www.lampsusa.com/productimages/Dolan/343-09_thumb.jpg
    • ANSWER:
      Hi The Answer is No, Your name makes me think of my wife :) As far as your fixture goes I would be comfortable hanging it up. The heat will vent up better then down so that isn't an issue. The shades won't fall up. I would do it. Norm
  11. QUESTION:
    Could my light fixtures be heating up the room more? the light fixtures on my ceiling fan are opened at the end (not enclosed) . i use a hallogen bulb (the spiral kind). would this make it hotter than if i used a complete cover and/or bulb?
    • ANSWER:
      It's the watts of the bulbs that tells you how much they are heating up your room. If you are using say 5 60W bulbs, that is 300 Watts, about 1/4 of the heat a portable electric heater gives off. If heat is an issue for you, consider changing your light style & go with compact fluourescents. They will look ugly if the fixtures are open on the ends where you can see them, so you need to get a style that the glass opens upwards, or is fully enclosed. And if you get a fully enclosed style, make sure the fluourescent bult is rated for an enclosed fixture.
  12. QUESTION:
    Cover up fluorescent light fixtures? I have fluorescent light fixtures (appx. 4'x6') in my kitchen and they are hideous. I'd like to install track lighting. What would be the easiest route to do so? How would I cover up the area where the fluorescent fixtures sit now so it'd be flush with the rest of the ceiling so that I can then install track lighting? The fixture isn't attached to the ceiling, it's recessed, so if I take everything out, I'll have a 4x6' hole in my ceiling. I'm wondering what steps could be taken to cover up this hole. Thanks.
    • ANSWER:
      One simple approach is to hide the fixtures with translucent plastic panels. There are a variety of patterns available, and you could install these to be level with the rest of the ceiling (leaving the fixtures recessed in the box). A neat solution, and it maintains the efficiency of fluorescent lights -- which, with track lights, you will probably lose: most track light fixtures don't distribute CFL light effectively.
  13. QUESTION:
    Can light bulb fixtures heat up even if there is no bulb? to complete the current or even if the switch is turned off?
    • ANSWER:
      Large florescent fixtures have a ballast that can still pass a current without a bulb installed. Miniature florescent fixtures have a bulb with a self contained ballast and should not pass a current without a bulb installed. An incandescent fixture should not have a current path without a bulb. A "curly bulb" fixture is an incandescent fixture with a miniature florescent fixture screwed into it and should not have a current path without a bulb. None should pass a current with the switch turned off.
  14. QUESTION:
    How to hook up a regular light fixture to a dimmer light switch? I am replacing a light fixture that appears to be once hooked up to a dimmer switch at one time.At the ceiling I have 3 black tied together, 1 black seperate,4 white tied together,and on green by itself,I would like to hook up a regular light fixture up to it having 2 wires the same,one has writing on it the other one doesn't,any help would be appreciated.
    • ANSWER:
      Replace your ceiling fixture with a new one of your choice, connect the wires as the old one was connected, then mount the fixture. Next, remove the switch & replace it with the dimmer you want...there will be a third wire connected to the dimmer's metal frame, connect that to your ground leg in the switch box. The other two wires connect to the ones you removed from your old switch...put the switch back in the box, replace the cover & dim away. Be sure the dimmer is rated for the total wattage your new fixture will draw. Good luck...
  15. QUESTION:
    Bathroom is only set up for one wall lighting fixture. Ideas? Should light point up or down? How many light
    • ANSWER:
      Just a thought to play with how about a track light that can go up the wall if that is where the electrical source is or if on ceiling a simple replacement to a funky track with multiple heads will allow you to increase the light in the room. I would also consider using your outlets if veasible with wall mounted lights and cords (not hardwired). Lampsplus is a good source. For great deals on fixtures try Ikea as well. Michele
  16. QUESTION:
    Aquarium build up on top of tank and light fixtures? what can I use to get rid of that white chalky/salty looking build up on the tank top. It doesnt come off with anything I have used and looks nasty, it also builds up to form like a crusty mess on the outside of the tank. The tank is freshwater, tropical fish.
    • ANSWER:
      since a razor blade doesn't work on mine i have tried 2 things, recommended by others, and they both work like miracles you can put white vinegar on it and let it soak for about 10 min and then wipe it of with a damp cloth you can also use pure lemon juice, also let it soak for about 5-10 min and then wipe it off with a damp cloth That way nothing gets scratched But don't expect that it won't come back, it will, I usually clean my cover about once a month DON'T use any chemicals on it hope that helps Good luck EB
  17. QUESTION:
    How do I separate the switches for light fixtures? I have three switches which run as four way switches so they light up three light fixtures at once. I want to separate each of the three switches to each of the three light fixtures. How would I do that. I have some background info on wiring so plzz don't tell me to hire an electrician.
    • ANSWER:
      If you know enough to do this job without an electrician, then you need not ask for instructions here.
  18. QUESTION:
    I have four light fixtures in livingroom hooked up to a diming light switch today i instaled 60 watt energy sa? Energy saving bulbs but the switch started doing a humimg noise
    • ANSWER:
      lots of the energy saving lights hum, particularly CFLs. If the switch is what is making the humming sound, it may not like the lights, or they may be to strong and you will have to go with lower wattage.
  19. QUESTION:
    Where is a good place to get low voltage track lighting fixtures? I just moved into a house that has low voltage track lighting...or at least that's what the guy at Lowe's told me when I showed him one of the lights. I'd like to replace the light fixtures, but Lowe's doesn't carry them. Where is a good place to get these things? I'd like a modern look as opposed to the old can & bulb set up I have.
    • ANSWER:
      Hi, You can get low voltage track lighting fixtures here http://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&keywords=low%20voltage%20track%20lighting%20fixtures&tag=recommended0b-20&index=garden&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325 Hope this helps.
  20. QUESTION:
    How do I link 3 light fixtures to one wire/plug? I have 3 ceramic light fixtures I want to link so that when it is plugged in all 3 light fixtures will light up using only one wire. Is there any way to do this with lamp cord? if so how do I do it. :) I can't hire an electrician. It is for an indoor hydroponic grow box.
    • ANSWER:
      Yes there is a way, in fact two ways. One way is to strip off the insulation on a small section of the Lamp cord. Connect the black wire from one of the three light fixtures to the black wire on Lamp cord. Connect the white wire to the white wire. Do this for all three lights. If you do not see a black and white wire then look at the male plug end. You will see a small prong and a larger prong. The small prong will or should be the black or hot wire.
  21. QUESTION:
    lighting fixtures and ceiling fan problems? My father had hooked up a new light and and a ceiling fan. whe the switch was in the off position the lights and fan came on, whe placed into the on position the lights went off, then the fuse popped. there are 2 switches that control both one in kitchen and one in the hall. unsure if the circuit they are on can handle the wattage they are producing or if there may be a short in the switch any help would be appreciated. When the lights came on and the both switches were in the off positioned it acted as a complete circuit but when the switch was placed in the on position the light went off, but at that time it popped the fuse. The switches on the control both lights at the same time. When both fixtures were lights it worked fine, but once one of the light fixtures turned into a fan/light combo its not working correctly. Im thinking either bad switches or the area cant handle the wattage but unsure since, the main concern is the lights come on when both switches are in off position
    • ANSWER:
      It sounds to me like you have three way switches. So the normal on and off position does not apply. And it sounds like the fan / light may have been wired wrong. Or the circuit is over loaded when the fan comes on.
  22. QUESTION:
    Is there such a thing as retractable recessed lighting fixtures? I'm looking for a recessed lighting fixture that takes halogen bulbs... And, here's the thing. It's way up in a 25' ceiling. So, I'm not sure if this exists. But does anybody manufacture something that could lower the lighting can by motor and cable? Basically, I'd like to be able to flip a switch, have the cans lower to ground level (or at least reasonably closer to it!), and be able to change the bulbs, flip the switch, and send them back up. Any ideas?
    • ANSWER:
      i dont there is such devices available
  23. QUESTION:
    What's the name of that lighting fixture that people use in museums or in homes to light up paintings? it's small and goes under the painting
    • ANSWER:
      I do not know of any light that goes "under" a painting. With a few exceptions, like those lights designed to enhance a plant or accent a sculpture, most lighting is designed to shoot from the top down as this is natural and relates to the sun. There are a variety of picture frame lights or picture lights available. http://www.picturelightuniverse.com/picture-lights_455.html Museums and galleries often use track lighting and recessed lighting. http://www.picturelightuniverse.com/search/default.aspx?tid=123&term=track+lighting&x=17&y=10 http://www.picturelightuniverse.com/search/default.aspx?tid=123&term=recessed+lighting&x=18&y=11
  24. QUESTION:
    How do you hook up a deep cycle battery for lighting a small camper? I inherited a small camper. I know house wiring well. So if wire the camper with 12/2, can I use an inverter and therefore hook up regular AC 120V fixtures (fan and lights) and a plug (for a laptop, or microwave)?? Can the engine charge the deep cycle battery without draining the engine battery? The truck has a 7 prong plug in the bed. thank you
    • ANSWER:
      Yes, you can hook up the inverter and use house wiring inside the camper. Better yet, buy 12 volt DC LED for lights and use the inverter for plug in applications only. Your battery will last longer. As far as charging, you need to install a Ford starter relay in the line connecting the front battery to the deep cycle and the trigger wire goes to the ignition switch. This means the batteries are connected only when the engine runs. That way, you don't run down your front battery when camping. If you do drain the deep cycle, you can still start the engine on the front battery and it will recharge the deep cycle as you drive down the road.
  25. QUESTION:
    Can anyone help with hooking up my light fixture? I am trying to hook up a light fixture, and the new one has the black wire, white wire, and the ground. But, for some reason the fixture that was there before required 2 blacks, 2 whites, and 2 grounds, so there are 6 wires coming out. I can get the light on, but I cannot turn it on and off, it just stays on. How do I know which of the six wires are the 3 to use to get it to work properly? Any ideas?
    • ANSWER:
      Since there are many things I do not know yet, please allow me to make some assumptions. If my assumptions are not correct, do not follow my instructions. Call an electrician. 1. I assume you know at least a little about electricity since you have the bravery to replace a fixture. 2. I assume that this fixture is a ceiling fixture, or something very similar. 3. I assume that this fixture has a wall switch to be used for turning the light on and off. 4. I assume that you are able to pull all wires out of the outlet box far enough to be able to see which wires enter the box as one cable. With 2 blacks, 2 whites, and 2 grounds, you should have one cable that enters the box with one of each color, and the other cable, likewise having one of each color. 5. I am going to assume that since you have been able to get the light to come on, then you are able to determine which of the two black wires is hot all the time. This one black wire that is hot all the time is the source. The white wire that enters the box with the source black wire is the source neutral, and is to be connected to the white wire of your new fixture. The black wire that is hot all the time is not to be connected to the light, but to the white wire of the cable that goes to the switch. This white wire that goes to the switch is not a neutral wire, but is a switch wire. It may already have a piece of black tape around it, or perhaps some black paint, to identify it as a switch wire instead of a neutral wire. The black wire that is not hot all the time, and this white wire with black tape or paint applied are the two wires that go to the wall switch. Connect this black wire that is not hot all the time to the black wire of the light fixture. The two grounds are to be connected together, and bonded to the box if it is a metal box. Again, if the instructions that I have given are not describing your situation, please disregard, and call an electrician. Please turn off the power to this light at the main panel before doing any work. I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck.
  26. QUESTION:
    What color goes with polished gold brass fixtures? Hello everyone, We are currently taking off alot of wallpaper in a new home we just purchased. We would like to replace the really large mirror and two polished gold light fixtures with two smaller mirrors and 2 more "up to date" light fixtures. All hardware in the house is the 1990's polished gold. I dont want to change out all hardware in the house, so what metal color goes with the gold brass? If possible I dont want to have to put gold fixtures up again. I read somewhere that your house fixtures should match with the same finish?
    • ANSWER:
      I think you could get away with using the oiled bronze for light fixtures, cabinet knobs, etc. You do not say what color wood cabinets/bath vanities you have--maybe a white washed framed mirror or wood framed mirror as an alternative to the metal. Your attention would be drawn to the darker oiled bronze and the brass hinges on the doors, etc. would not be noticeable. If you have those "Hollywood makeup mirror lights", get rid of them--they are so dated.
  27. QUESTION:
    Is it okay not to use the black wire to hook up a light? I am replacing a ceiling fan with a light fixture. The problem is, coming out of the box I have a black, red, white and ground wire. I belive the extra wire has to do with the three way switch. When I hooked up the fixture and did not use the red wire, the lights were on, but the switch didnt work. Now Ive tried the red wire and left the black unhooked. The switch is fully functional. So the question remains, is it okay to just not use the black wire and to cap it off and shove it back up into the box?
    • ANSWER:
      The black was just a consent feed left in the box for the fan and the red is switched for the light it is fine to leave in box just put a wirenut on it and tuck it in the box
  28. QUESTION:
    What's a good way to light up my apartment? I'm moving to an apartment where the only light fixtures are in the kitchen and bathrooms. I like for the room, that I am in, to be well lit. Besides lamps, with no shade on it and opening my blinds during the day, what's the best way light up the place? If you can, include portable fluorescent lighting.
    • ANSWER:
      You don't want lamps with no shades nor do you want fluorescent which is harsh and hard on the eyes and skin. Buy table lamps that have three way bulb options. You can choose which level of light but you must have shades. Or do wall sconces. If you wish up lighting, pick a couple of torchieres with halogen bulbs. They are most like natural light and come with dimmer controls to adjust the light according to the mood and use. But even with torchieres you still need down lights for reading so both are recommended. Your room design and set up will determine how to use both styles of lamps in the room. Fluorescents are horrible even in an office and not used in homes because of their harshness. No one wants to create a harsh lighting atmosphere in their home no matter how bright you prefer it. Give yourself some options so you can create atmosphere when needed and good reading when necessary.
  29. QUESTION:
    Does anyone know of a moving company that will uninstall light fixtures,sink fixtures and cut up a carpet?
    • ANSWER:
      No. They are there to pack and move, nothing else
  30. QUESTION:
    Only one fixture lights up in a series? I just finished wiring a series of flourescent lights- 4 fixtures in all. When I turned them on the first light in the series lit up but the other three did not. Checking with a tester I confirmed that there is indeed power to the rest of the fixtures. What gives? Any ideas before I call an electrician? Also the fixtures and the bulbs are all brand new- T8's Thanks for your help! sorry- the lights are wired in parallel not series
    • ANSWER:
      Check all your connections starting at the the first fixture in the circuit. Chances you have a bad connection at the first fixture or the second fixture.
  31. QUESTION:
    Which low energy lighting fixtures to choose? The story is we employed an interior designer to come up with a low energy lighting idea for our new library/music room which is 24 sq metres. She showed us a picture of some lights and had us have the electrician hang 4 wires 1.5m apart for these lights (forming a square in the centre of the ceilling). When the wires were plastered in she admitted that her fittings took only halogen bulbs -which would have made 640 watts at least!!! We parted company with her at this point but now cannot work out what light fittings would look well and work well and obviously take a low energy bulb. We've seen some ball-shaped lights and wonder whether 4 of those would look OK. Whatever we decide on is going to cost around 800 Euro upward so I'd be grateful for any thoughts.
    • ANSWER:
      Ask for CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamps) which will consume lesser energy in terms watts and also environmental friendly.
  32. QUESTION:
    How do you hook up your christmas lights to your porch light? I've been seeing lots of people in my apartments with their christmas lights hooked up to their porch light because they have no outlet outside. I even went to applebees and saw that they have their christmas lights inside hooked up to the light fixtures over the tables. How do you go about doing that? Is there some sort of adapter you get to hook it up to it?
    • ANSWER:
      Hardware stores and depots have a 2 feature plug that replaces a light bulb, 1 side has another bulb outlet and the other a plug receptacle (about ) take out bulb, screw in adapter, plug in the light stringor extension cord, screw in bulb. The lights will be ON with the light bulb. As easy as changing a light bulb.
  33. QUESTION:
    Are there any specific ceiling fans with light fixtures that light up a room more than others? We just bought 2 identical fans with light fixtures to put on each end of our 24 x 10 foot kitchen. These light fixtures in the fans provide the only light. The light that the ceiling fans give off is so minimal that it feels like there is a night light on the room instead of a real light. Are there any fans with really bright lights out there? We have a Lowe's nearest to us, so that is probably where we would buy the fans from. We like the idea of having a dome to cover the lightbulbs so that we don't have to stare at light bulbs, but if we have to go with a different kind of light fixture, I'm open to it. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
    • ANSWER:
      The fans I have in my den have 5 lights that have decorative globes that mostly hide the bulbs. However, they are exposed if you look directly into one of the globes, but do not look bad at all. I place 40 watt bulbs in each socket and they more than adequately light the room at full power.
  34. QUESTION:
    How do I hook up a light fixture? I have two wires coming out of the fixture, plus a ground wire. I want to wire it into a wall socket plug.
    • ANSWER:
      call someone like a repairman
  35. QUESTION:
    Can I use Elmer's Glue to hang up my new lighting fixture? If I use a lot? Its a small lighting fixture so its not heavy at all and I can't afford a hot glue gun but I found a TON of Elmer's Glue in the cabinet downstairs. I really want to hang up the new lighting fixture I bought before my boyfriend comes home because it would really surprise him! Thanks for the help everyone! Its light in weight and I dont see how it would look bad? Trust me, I have a LOT of it- like 7 or 8 bottles!
    • ANSWER:
      elmers glue is bacially for light art stuff, i would try to use a more stronger glue,ask a next door neighbor if you could borrow theirs.You don't want it to fall on your head and hurt you.
  36. QUESTION:
    I have a 13y/o step -daughter and we are fixing her up a room, paint light fixtures floor,etc.? The house is brand new so thats why it's not done yet. We are really short on cash flow and need to know different short cuts on decorating for less money. Can't do credit cards either, maxed out already.
    • ANSWER:
      Almost all furniture/appliance/flooring stores stock remnants of carpet, vinyl etc... We bought a beautiful and new piece of carpet to redo our entire bedroom for . So there's an option to check into. I would take your teen with you when you're shopping around... If she is part of the decision making, she'll be happier and feel that the room is more "hers." As far as paint, check the mis-mixed paint at your local paint stores. You can find some great colors at half the price. Light fixtures can be picked up at thrift stores for pennies on the dollar - and there are some real cool ones if you spend the time to look around. Thrift stores are great all around for decorations. You're likely to find curtains, fabric, furniture, frames, pics etc etc etc! We bought an old canvas for , my daughter created her own wall art and stuck it in a thrift store frame that cost . Tons of options out there! Good luck and have fun.
  37. QUESTION:
    Installed Lithonia Lighting Wrap Lite fluorescent fixture and T8 bulbs are only partially lighting up, why? I had a cheap fluorescent light fixture in my closet. The (2) 4 ft bulbs were always very dull and appeared to only light up about half way, even when brand new. I replaced the light fixture with a new Lithonia Wrap Lite 4' fixture using T8 bulbs thinking the ballast was defective on the old fixture. Even with the new fixture I have the same problem. New bulbs in new light fixture were nice and bright for about 10 seconds and then started flickering and now they are dull, just like the old fixture. Any ideas on what's going on here?
    • ANSWER:
      Make sure the fixture is grounded. Some ballasts need to be grounded to operate properly. If that doesn't work you need a volt meter to insure you have 120v to the fixture.
  38. QUESTION:
    Are spotlight light fixtures as effective at providing general room lighting as standard incandescent fixtures? Hello, I have my sight set on buying a ceiling fan with lights (it is the Westinghouse Apollo Elite Plus found here: http://www.astra247.com/1705/Cooling-Air-Conditioning-and-/Westinghouse-Apollo-Elite-Plus-Ceiling-Fan-and-Light/52-Brushed-Aluminium/ ). I have no experience with the GU10 bulbs that the fixture uses other than as down lights. Can anyone tell me how effective they are at lighting up a room. Do the spotlights cause stark shadows and have narrow beams? Do they leave the ceiling looking dark? Any advice would be appreciated.
    • ANSWER:
      The bulbs that are in the ceiling fan appear to be a kind of spot light and I believe that they will cause harsh light and heat up your room. Find a fan that will accept the new twisty fluorescent bulbs. I have ceiling fans in every room of my house. The twisty fluorescent bulbs do not cause erie shadows.
  39. QUESTION:
    How bad is it to hook up a light fixture and forget to hook up the ground wire?
    • ANSWER:
      I agree with Micheal N. I'm a veteran electrician so I've been around plenty of ungrounded fixtures and devices. We have a national electric code that is a compilation of rules resulting from people dying.....for the most part. The reason that your fixture has a ground is because it's metal. If it was plastic, it wouldn't have had a ground. Where were you going to hook up the ground anyway? Did you even have a bare ground wire in the electrical box? Depending on the age of your house, there is a good possibility that you don't even have grounds and that you are on a two wire system already. The purpose of the ground wire in that fixture is so that if the hot wire shorts out to the metal fixture, it will trip the circuit ensuring that anyone who touches it not be shocked. However, if it's not grounded and the hot wire does short to the metal fiture then the fixture becomes hot or energized. If that happens, just make sure that you don't touch the fixture and the nearest ground......which I'm sure will be well out of your reach!!!!! As for one of the commments about taking the fixture down and hooking up the ground, yea you could have done that just as quick as it took to post this and read all of the replies unless it's 14 feet up in the air and if that's the case, who cares if it's not grounded, nobody is gonna touch it way up there!! But honestly, grounding is a life safety precaution that is a fairly new concept but is always recommended. Absolutely nothing can go wrong if you hook it up. Most likely you'll be fine if it's not hooked up. Which one are you more comfortable with, absolutely or most likely. They did start making grounded aparatus for a reason......
  40. QUESTION:
    Scale of lighting fixture size to that of building? My mom is looking for lighting to put up around and in her barn that was just restored. Does anyone have any information on a scale that would show for what size of building you'd need what size of lighting fixtures?
    • ANSWER:
      No such scale exists. You have to define the objective of the lighting; is it architectural (i.e. for design effects only), functional (provide lighting for functional purpose), for security (light up the dark areas so bad guys don't have a place to hide)? Once you define the purpose of the lighting that will guide you in the choice of lighting. Most any lighting store worthy of the name can help you, but that is the first question they will ask.
  41. QUESTION:
    Can you use single tube lighting for a thriving planted aquarium? I am trying to set up a planted aquarium and I looked online at the plants I wanted and I saw that they needed moderate lighting. The tank will be 20 gallons and the plants will be wisteria, amazon sword, cabomba, hornwort, anibus nana, and some type of grass plant. Can these plants survive in a single lighting fixture. DOES INCREASING THE KELVIN MAKE UP FOR LIGHTING.
    • ANSWER:
      You might be able to get away with it since most of the plants you listed aren't very demanding. The grass plant should be the lone exception. Depending on what species it is, it will either just stay alive and not grow much if at all, or die. Higher kelvin ratings doesn't really do anything other than make the light more bluish. Kelvin just measure the color of the light.
  42. QUESTION:
    how do you wire up a light fixture to light switch and then to a receptacle plug power at light fixture?
    • ANSWER:
      Where does the power come it? To the switch or the fixture? Do you want the receptacle switched or hot all the time? Maybe an electrician would be a good idea?
  43. QUESTION:
    Overhead lighting in a townhome complex? I've moved a second time in the same townhome complex. I have foudn there is only one overhead lighting fixture in the place that is in the dining area. So how should I light up the place without adding too many lamps or installing things in the wall/ceiling?
    • ANSWER:
      You could change the fixture. Get a fixture that has multiple lights, like a chandelier. Or get brighter light bulbs
  44. QUESTION:
    light fixture has white, black, and green my old fixture only has black and white how should i hook it up? my old fixture has only black and white nothing else. there are no ground wires anywhere near there in the attic. how should i hook the new fixture up? i tried white and black and i got nothing. there is no where for the green wire to be grounded; the old fixture had no ground but it worked fine. none of the light fixtures in the house have the green wires they are all old and they all work. how can i get the fixture to work without running more wires?
    • ANSWER:
      Green is the ground wire and apparently you have an ungrounded system. If the box that the feed wires come in to is metal, then attach the green wire from the fixture to the metal box with a screw. If it is plastic, then just cap the green wire and tuck it into the box. Then the blacks go together and the whites go together and you should be back to normal. Just know that you DO have an ungrounded system and at some point you should have an electrician look at it and make suggestions. In the interim you will be fine. There are still many many ungrounded systems out there that operate just fine, but the protection the ground wire gives you IS missing. You can google for more information about ungrounded systems for general information. Al
  45. QUESTION:
    Flattering make-up in florescent lighting? Hey! I have a question pertaining to make-up: I am a high-school student, and all of the class rooms at my school are equipped with florescent light fixtures. I was just wondering if anyone knew a few tricks to applying make-up that will still look good under the harsh light, without being too high maintenance ( I don't wear loads of make-up.) Thanks in advance!
    • ANSWER:
      I gave someone looking for a foundation that is good for taking pictures, but it applies to you too. I'm just too lazy to write it all again: I think the thing you're looking for is Revlon PhotoReady product line. Find a foundation that you like (they have your regular liquid stuff in a pump tube, as well as their new screen liquid foundation. It's cool. Check it out) and then put their powder on top. Then, finish with the translucent finishing powder (this is key). This line is actually advertised as being beautiful in all kinds of light, and is especially good for taking pictures. One thing with photography though, is that the flash tends to make anyone look over exposed, especially when the picture is taken up close. So, maybe buy a foundation that you can wear all the time, but have a powder that is slightly darker for your skin tone that you can apply moderately or liberally to get the desired result. Don't forget about the translucent finishing powder though :) It really makes all the difference.
  46. QUESTION:
    What is the ring you screw on an electronic ballast to hold up the light fixture on hanging ceiling lamps? I'm so confused, please help!!! http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x114/mmmkells/P7251382.jpg http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x114/mmmkells/P7251383.jpg
    • ANSWER:
      That should be called a "Ring Nut" I would think.
  47. QUESTION:
    what happens if I down mount and up mount only light fixture? I have a light that won't fit if I use the existing bracket. Is it bad to mount the fixture downwards instead?
    • ANSWER:
      If you mount it outside then the fixture may no longer be rain proof; it depends on the design. Interior applications should make no difference; I have had to do that for a wall sconce on an interior staircase and the larger bulbs no longer fit properly into the fixture, so I changed to a smaller lower watt bulb.
  48. QUESTION:
    Light fixture from Lights of America 7000e will light up a 4500k bulb but will not light up a 6500k bulb why? Everything is brand new. The bulb size and wattage are the same F15T8, one is 4500k in temp and the other is 6500k in temp.
    • ANSWER:
      The color temperature has nothing to do with the electrical operation of the bulb. The color temperature is determined by the chemicals coating the glass. As long as the wattage and plug configuration are the same in both bulbs, it sounds like the 6500k is a bad bulb. (It's easy these days to buy a bulb that "looks like the same bulb" but isn't. The plug part, where it goes into the socket can be slightly different, check carefully.)
  49. QUESTION:
    How to light up a room without Lights? When we encounter an area of our house that is always "too dark," often our first inclination is to add another lamp or light fixture. Using common materials and items found around your home, demonstrate an alternative strategy for bringing light to a darkened area of your home without adding or subtracting the number of lamps or light fixtures. Alternatively, present an innovative method for dimming ambient light. Example: How can I make the dark corner of my room brighter, without adding more electric lights?
    • ANSWER:
      A classy solution is basically to use waveguides which have total internal reflection for visible light. They should be placed near the light-source at an appropriate angle and extend to the dark area you are looking to light. The light that falls upon the waveguide from your source will travel through all the way to its end and be emitted there, lighting up even the darkest parts of your room! That's SCIENCE!
  50. QUESTION:
    What's the cheapest way to set up artificial daylight fixtures in my apartment? I suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder so I need as much extra full-spectrum lighting as I can reasonably afford on a student budget.
    • ANSWER:
      you can get daylight CFL. they now come in all kinds of forms. I just got a daylight CFL a replacement for the 300watts mercury Floodlight 3weeks ago. there are also daylight flourescent bulbs available in DIY shops. heyyy do 1 thing visit your DIY shop and scout for the lighting fixture you wanted.