What is the difference between magnetic and electronic ballast?

Magnetic ballasts work at a frequency of around 60 Hz, whereas electronic ballasts work at an increased frequency of around 20,000 Hz. This is why fluorescent lamps using electronic ballasts do not flicker or emit any buzzing sounds. Electronic ballasts are also quite smaller in size and weight.

What is a rapid start ballast?

Rapid start ballasts are designed with a independent set of windings that transmit lower voltages – approximately 3.5 volts to the electrodes for a second before the lamp ignites. Rapid start ballasts are normally wired in series so if one lamp fails, all remaining lamps in the circuit cease to operate.

Can I replace a magnetic ballast with an electronic ballast?

Fortunately, compatibility isn’t really an issue, as most electronic ballasts have been designed to replace existing magnetic ballasts. A preferable electronic ballast is the T8 model. This option has several advantages over the T10 and T12, including improved lighting efficiency.

What’s the difference between instant start and rapid start ballast?

Instant start lamps don’t use a preheating method. Instead, they send a high amount of voltage across the lamp upon the strike. Typically, instant start ballasts use 1.5-2 watts less per lamp than rapid start ballasts. Instant start lamps also start reliably at temperatures as low as zero degrees.

Can you replace rapid start ballast with instant start?

2 Lamp Rapid Start Ballast Replaced with Instant Start Diagram. Connect each of the individual blue wires from the instant start ballast to each pair of the lampholder individual wires (red and blue). Connect the common red wire from the instant start ballast to the yellow pair of lampholder common wires.

How long do electronic ballasts last?

about 20 years
The ballast takes in electricity and then regulates current to the bulbs. A typical ballast will generally last about 20 years, but cold environments and bad bulbs can decrease this lifespan significantly. You can get a new ballast at a hardware store or home center and install it in about 10 minutes.