need 'help' with switchable 1000w

[zachrockbadenof]

one of our sunlight 1000w switchable ballast aint working properly... I noticed that the light from the fixture is way dimmer then our other units... thinking the bulb was going, I changed bulbs, and it was still much dimmer... I then changed ballast's and the light was brighter... hence seems the ballast is on its way out... looks like it was bought in 04 as that's the date of the sticker...

I ordered a new ballast ($150) which are cheap enough, but thinking if its an easy fix, keep the old one as a spare... any guidance what mite be the problem..thanks

 

[Hydro-Soil]

The ballast is fine... you just need a couple replacement parts.

Can't remember where... but there's an HID troubleshooting guide from one or more of the lighting manufacturers out there.

Most likely your capacitor needs to be changed, especially if it's been in service since 04. lol

Might as well replace the ignitor at the same time. Usually can tell when the ignitor is going when it takes a while for the lamp to light at startup. Should flick and then come on, really fast. If it takes a while, the ignitor is definitely going out.

Stay Safe!

 

[Cartel530]

Yes its pretty simple just look up the basic wiring diagram and replace the parts stated above. It will probably take you longer to open her open her up then to fix her
A lot of people get rid of their ballasts for cheap because they dont know how easy they are to fix

 

[Jhhnn]

Yep- probably the capacitor. That's the usual reason for low output w/ magnetic ballasts. When you lose the transformer, it's usually a stinky meltdown & no light at all. You'll know when you open the box... Whew!

 

[zachrockbadenof]

thanks for replies... any ideas where to buy a cap.??