HO flourescents Part 2

Posted a couple days back about my HO (cold start) flourescents not lighting now that the temp (and humidity) is up. Thought I'd let you know what I figured out.

Busted out the ladder the other day and sure enough the bulbs were damp (as Janicholson suggested). I actually got a little poke off one (I needed the lights that would light to see what I was doing). Dried w/ a rag and still no instant light, but better.

I then picked the worst fixture that gives me fits when it's real cold and also now. Installed two new bulbs. Guess which fixture lights up first try every time now.

I'm assuming that as these bulbs age they start a little harder and the moisture on the outside of the bulb is diverting enough of the current (as per the little jolt I got) to prevent them from starting. I believe these are all originals I put in about 8 yrs ago so I guess I can't complain too much. These lights are usually only on for a little while at a time.

I guess I'll replace all the bulbs and save the used ones for the shop where the moisture is not an issue. Fortunately I have a new case of auction specials. Anyone priced these lately? Home Depot yesterday--$14 bulb. Ouch!

Thanks for the input. Jeff

You are welcome, The condensation point is sometimes a difficult diagnosis as it cant be seen very well. Though it can be felt in several ways. Jim

All kinds of fluorescent lamps get harder to start with age. They also loose light out put and efficiency. New ones along side reluctant old lamps often make the old ones look like they are on a dimmer.

Gerald J.