View Full Version : fixing a dim light
Kennedy327
01-31-2009, 2:19 PM
I have two 24" hood lights for my 55g and when I put new bulbs in (old were burnt out) my one light is dim, like it wont fully come on. At first I thought I got a bad bulb but after switching its now comes down to the light itself. I took the reflector off thinking I could replace the starter but there isnt one. just a box. My question is there anything I can do that would be worth a shot. I know this is a cheap hood but I dont have money to replace, and if I do replace I would like to wait and upgrade.
OldMan47
01-31-2009, 4:36 PM
The way to fix a hood that won't light a tube properly is usually to replace the ballast, that's that box thing. If you find the rating number on it, you can search on line and find a perfect replacement. Before you spend the money, check all the connections in your existing hood. If there is a loose connection it can cause the same symptoms as a worn out ballast. When you replace the ballast it is a good idea to switch over to an electronic ballast instead of the old fashioned type.
Kennedy327
01-31-2009, 6:47 PM
The way to fix a hood that won't light a tube properly is usually to replace the ballast, that's that box thing. If you find the rating number on it, you can search on line and find a perfect replacement. Before you spend the money, check all the connections in your existing hood. If there is a loose connection it can cause the same symptoms as a worn out ballast. When you replace the ballast it is a good idea to switch over to an electronic ballast instead of the old fashioned type.
I was at home depot today and noticed that have those ballast for $7, I just wasnt sure if it was the correct one since I was looking for something different and wasnt prepared.
thunderstruck
01-31-2009, 7:36 PM
could it be the starter???
Kennedy327
01-31-2009, 9:25 PM
could it be the starter???
I was looking for it, but there isnt a starter. Just a ballast.
jpappy789
01-31-2009, 9:54 PM
It might have a built in starter.
I would also consider replacing the entire fixture rather than spending time and money on a new ballast. I've heard they're a PITA to replace...