troubleshooting

J

Jim

Premium Member
I have a ballast that runs two MH bulbs. I dont know what kind it is but it is about 6"x6"x20" and is gray metal colored. It has two switches and two output to the bulbs. One side has stopped working. When I change the plugs around the one side still doesnt work. So, it is either the ballast, switch or plug. Any ideas how to determine what is wrong with it and how to fix it? Anyone have experience with this? My corals need BOTH bulbs on. :(
 
well, the only ballast ive taken apart had a simple switch that should be easy to swap out with one from radio shack, so do that and it could easily tell you if its the switch. most of the basic ardware is probably that way in fact.
 
Could be the switch or the capacitor has gone bad, Both are easy to check with the right meter. If needed if you are in my area you can bring it by and I can check those items out for you.
 
I am not that far from Burleson (SW ARlington) -- I think that is worth the drive. When would be a convenient time for me to come by? PM and I will come. thanks
 
That's a PFO ballast and it's probably the switch. Unfortunately, they are out of business, so replacing it through the is not possible. However, I believe that I bought a replacement switch at either radio shack, lowes or HD.
It should have screws on the bottom that allows you to remove the housing. Just make sure it's unplug for a while first, because they run very hot. Someone also mentioned the fact it might be a capacitor out. That may be the case, and if it is, I would buy a new e-ballast just for powering that bulb. I would also plan on replacing both ballast in the future. Hope this helps.
 
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