Fluorescent starter question?

Question

If the starter (new) flickers does that mean the fixture is ok? I installed a new light after the other one died but it isn't working. I had it checked before i bought it and there was nothing wrong with the light.

Could it be the contacts?

Answer 1

  Go with Geoff W

if you have never changed a tube,,they have two prong contacts on the end which engage (vertically into slots on the light fitting)and a quarter turn of the bulb completes the connection)  

Answer 2

With a flickering fluorescent, the first thing I check is the tube, which usually cures the problem. If not, it's generally the starter. Bear in mind that the starter gets a lot less use than the tube, so it lasts for a long time.

Note: I assume you're referring to a fixture with an inductive ballast, not an electronic one.

Answer 3

look at the tube first,,,any sort of darkened colour at the ends of the tube means a faulty tube,they are also in need of change ,,,if you have never changed a tube,,they have two prong contacts on the end which engage (vertically into slots on the light fitting)and a quarter turn of the bulb completes the connection)the light fitting may also ,for example require a max 40watt lamp if you have fitted a 60 watt lamp that will cause problems as well,the starter may not be same spec as the one you removed,that may not work either,,most probably you have not installed and seated the lamp correctly

Answer 4

check the max wattage on the starter and compare to to the tube

some starters only work up to a certain size

sounds likewrong starter or it is u/s

Answer 5

Make sure that it is the right size diameter fluorescent.  I have had the problem too.  Play around with it.  Your fixture could just need a good cleaning also.