Problems With Your Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures?

Here are a few things to check if you're having problems with your fluorescent fixtures.

My Fixture Hums

Confirm the ballast is securely attached to the fixture housing and the that the housing is securely attached to your surface.
It's also a good idea to verify your fixture is properly grounded
Leave your fixture on for 48 - 72 hours to "season" your ballast.

The Lamps Do Not Turn On

Confirm that all lamps are securely seated in each of their sockets.
Replace defective bulbs. Bad bulbs are often blackened near the ends.
Verify the fixtures have been wired correctly. Sometimes a connection breaks off inside the fixture and may cause an open circuit.
Verify the ballast voltage rating to ensure it is the same voltage as your building.
Use a multi-meter to verify that the ballast is receiving the correct amount of input voltage.
Your ballast may need to be replaced.

Lamps Blink, Flicker, Or "Snake"

Toggle the fixture on and off multiplr times at 30-minute intervals.
Observe the ambient temperature surrounding the fixture and, as needed, upgrade the ballast to one rated for your specific conditions.
Make sure a fan or air conditioning is not blowing cool air across your lamps.
Allow the lamps to "season" properly by leaving them on for 24 to 48 hours.
Confirm that all your wiring connections are secure, complete, and tight.
Verify your ballast is receiving constant input voltage by using a multi-meter to test.