How to Troubleshoot Fluorescent Lights That Delay & Flicker
- 1). Inspect other electric lights and devices in the room where the fluorescent light is located to determine if they are having similar problems. There may be a problem with the electrical current in the room, and the fluorescent light may not need repair.
- 2). Replace the bulb in the fluorescent light with a new one. Grab the old bulb with both hands and twist it toward you to remove it. Some bulbs may be spring-loaded on one end, and you must push the bulb in on one side to pull out the bulb. Install the new bulb by reversing the procedure you used to remove the old one.
- 3). Locate the starter, if the fixture has one, if the bulb is new and you have determined it is not the source of the problem. The starter may be found under the light bulb on the base of the fixture or on the side of the fixture. It is a cylindrical-shaped device that is about the diameter of a roll of nickles and is about 3 inches long. Twist the starter counterclockwise and pull it out. Replace it with a new one which can be purchased from any hardware or home improvement store.
- 4). Install a new ballast if the problem is not resolved with any of the previous steps. If you do not feel comfortable cutting electrical wiring and connecting the new ballast, hire a qualified electrician to complete the work.
