If I remove the hardware from my 48" fluorescent lighting fixture...

[rstrobel]

can I use it to power 36" fluorescent bulbs? They're T8s if that matters.

 

[kj5kb]

can I use it to power 36" fluorescent bulbs? They're T8s if that matters.

Maybe...depends on the rating of the ballast. Does it say it's rated for F30T8?

I have used a ballast from a 48" shop light to re-fit a 36" fixture, and it's worked fine for several years.

If it says F32T8 but not F30T8, it will probably work fine, but you may be a bit overdriven...more light, less lamp life.

Would I try it? yep, but only to re-fit a 36" fixture...

If it's a magnetic (heavy) ballast I wouldnt bother; go buy an electronic ballast for $20-30.

 

[rstrobel]

Thanks, it says it's an electronic ballast and F32T8. They're just shop lights from the hardware store. The reason I ask is because I'm moving and I am downsizing my 55g to a 40 breeder and don't want to have to buy all new lighting. I'm planning on making a canopy that will have the lights mounted inside of it. I'm not really concerned about shortening the life of the bulbs as long as it is not a fire hazard

 

[kj5kb]

Should work. If you can get the guts out of the shoplite in one piece so much the better. I did that and reinserted the guts in an old 36" 2-tube fixture which I installed in a homebuilt wood canopy for my 40 breeder. I added a reflector (angled roof flashing) and it's been working fine. Any amount of overdriving is minor IMHO ...I'd had T10 lamps in it for 3 years or so, and they are just now showing signs of wearing out.

I will have another 36" fixture available soon if you want it.. It's the one with the lamps on the sides of the fixture, rather than the bottom. Your shoplite guts should fit fine.