How to replace a light fixture with a new one
Standard fluorescent lighting fixture are more energy efficient than incandescent light fixture and the bulbs generally last considerably longer, but occasionally a special transformer inside the fixture, called a ballast, may need to be replaced.The age of the light fixture will affect the type of ballast in the fixture.
Older-style magnetic ballasts are more energy efficient and quieter than electronic ones.They are less likely to have problems.Magnetic ballasts can go bad, and older fluorescent fixture use them.Magnetic ballasts can cause a tar-like black substance to fall into a fixture if they go bad.If your lights flicker or go off, it's time to replace the ballast.
A replacement ballast should have the same wiring configuration and rating as the original.If available, choose an electronic ballast.It's a better investment to replace the entire fixture if you compare the cost of the ballast to a new fixture.
You can turn off the power to the circuit containing the light fixture by using the breaker box.Plug the fixture in if it has a cord and plug.
The lens can be removed from the fixture.There is a clear plastic lens around the outside of the fixture.Take the outer edge and pull the cover away from the fixture.If the fixture has a lens inside of a framed lid, look for locking clasps that pull down and allow the lens to swing down.
The light bulbs should be removed.You can see the metal contacts at the bulb's ends by twisting it.Pull down on one end and the contacts will slide out of the fixture.The process should be repeated for the remaining tubes.
It is a good time to check the sockets at the end of the light fixture.They should be tightened or replaced if they are loose.
The wiring cover plate is located in the center of the fixture.There are tabs on either side of the cover.Remove the tabs from the slots by squeezing the sides of the cover.This will expose the wiring.
The black and white wires are connected to the ballast.There are wires for the power source.Before touching any wires or wire connections, make sure the power is off by testing them with a non-contact voltage tester.The test should show that there is no power in the wires.
Four or more wires may be connected to the fixture's bulb sockets.
If necessary, you can cut the wires close to the ballast using a wire cutter.