How to Replace a Fluorescent Light Ballast

Before you spend time replacing the ballast on your fluorescent light, make sure that the light bulb is not about to die. The lights will give this away by flickering. A dying bulb also may display black bands on the ends. If a new bulb still flickers, glows at the end or hums, you have to replace the ballast. This part of the bulb regulates the electrical current to the light.

Things You'll Need

• Wire snips
• New ballast
• Nut driver

Instructions

1. Turn off the power or unplug the light fixture. You must disconnect all the power to the light before working on it. Once you do, open the light and take out the bulb.

2. Take off the cover that conceals the ballast. It could be bolted on or you may be able to easily pull it off.

3. Cut the wires attached to the ballast, snipping it a few inches from where the ballast connects.

4. Remove the nuts holding the ballast onto the light fixture. Keep your hand in place so the ballast does not fall.

5. Put the new ballast where the old one used to be, screwing it back in with the nut driver. Reconnect the wires using twist-wire connectors. Replace the ballast cover and turn the power back on.