Are electronic ballasts better than magnetic?
Because the electronic ballast doesn’t use could and electromagnetic fields, it can function more efficiently and cooler than magnetic. The frequency change also greatly reduces any flicker int the lamp due to burn in or improper power.
What is the advantage of an electronic ballast over a conventional magnetic ballast?
Electronic ballasts are more efficient and more compact in size and weight. They also provide the ability for continuous power adjustment at different settings. A disadvantage is that power fluctuations may cause a failure but this can be offset by adding a buffer capacitor. Operation of the ballasts generate heat.
How do you tell a magnetic ballast from an electronic ballast?
Stand under the light or a place close to the light and point your cell phone camera at the light.
- If you can see some strong dark strips flickering in your camera, it must be a magnetic ballast based light.
- Otherwise it should be an electronic ballast based light.
Can you mix magnetic and electronic ballasts?
There is no problem with replacing the magnetic ballasts with electronic ballasts, one at a time, light fixture by fixture, just keep track of the type of lamps that are specified on the label of the new electronic ballasts which will most likely be the T8 type lamps.
Why are magnetic ballasts being replaced?
Magnetic Ballasts or Electromagnetic (EM ballasts) fluorescent ballasts are rapidly being replaced by electronic ballasts for improved energy efficiency and function. New DOE requirements and long-term cost savings are driving the change.
Does a magnetic ballast need a starter?
No Starters Required Magnetic ballasts required a starter to get the lamp lit, electronic ballasts do not require a starter.
How many watts does a magnetic ballast use?
They consume eight to 10 watts when operating with the lamp in the circuit. The ballast will consume about four watts when the lamps are removed although the ballast is still energized.
What’s a magnetic ballast?
A magnetic ballast is a piece of lighting equipment often used in small and large growrooms. There are three basic types of ballasts: magnetic, electronic, and digital. Like all ballasts, a magnetic ballast regulates the voltage a fluorescent light receives so that the bulb doesn’t overheat and immediately explode.
How long do magnetic ballasts last?
According to the Certified Ballast Manufacturers Association, the average magnetic ballast lasts about 75,000 hours, or 12 to 15 years with normal use. The optimum economic life of a fluorescent lighting system with magnetic ballasts is usually about 15 years.
What is the difference between an electronic and magnetic ballast?
Electronic ballasts eliminate the “hum and flicker” often associated with magnetic ballasts. This is because EMs operate at a much higher frequency than MBs. Other advantages of EMs include:
What are the advantages of magnetic ballast?
Low price with long lasting life up to 20 years, when comparing to electronic type with 5 years life. Some electronic types cannot withstand power surge and yield shorter life span. This life of magnetic ballast will help reduce maintenance cost. 2.
What is a ballast and how does it work?
The purpose of a ballast is to limit and regulate the amount of current being sent to your grow bulbs to help maximize the lamp’s life and light output. An electronic or magnetic ballast is like the CPU of a computer – without it, all you have is an expensive paper-weight.
What are the disadvantages of electronic ballast?
3. Harmonic interference of electronic ballast might disrupt the IT, communication and sensitive electronic device (eg in Medical Operation Room) 4. Electronic ballast installed at high temperature area may shorthen usage life.
