How to replace fluorescent light bulb
Fluorescent light bulbs (LL) are used everywhere. They are reliable, efficient and economical. However, operation always results in replacing the light source due to burnout, starter failure or circuit failure. Let's take a closer look at the processes.
How a fluorescent lamp works
Fluorescent lamps consist of of a base, a ballast and a bulb with electrodes. Also in the bulb is an inert gas or mercury vapor, and the inner surface is covered with a phosphor. The phosphor converts ultraviolet radiation into visible light. This takes much less energy than a standard incandescent lamp (LL).
There are a large number of LLs on the market with different shades, depending on the phosphor. Typically, LLs are in the form of a tube connected on both sides to the socket of the lighting equipment.
Modern household models are available with standard screw bases to which a straight tube or spiral is connected. Sometimes pin bases are used.
Models with threaded bases are most often used as an effective replacement for conventional light bulbs.
The voltage applied to the electrodes heats them up. The emitted electrons interact with the mercury vapor and create invisible ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This causes the phosphor to emit a white glow.
Variety of bases
LL have a threaded or pin base. In the first case, the lamp is easily placed in a standard socket.
The pin base can have two or four pins. When plug When connecting a four-pin base a choke is always necessary choke or other stabilizer. The two-pin models can only be connected through a choke.
In some models, the bases already include a built-in ballast. The thread in this case can be two standard diameters.
What you need to replace the lamp
To replace the lamp does not require a special tool. All work is done by hand, and the screws are unscrewed with a screwdriver. You just need to follow the safety precautions and avoid excessive stress on the bulb.
The process of replacing the lamp
The variety of fluorescent lamp bases implies different approaches when replacing equipment. Consider how to correctly change the most popular models.
With G5 base
Lamps with G5 base are usually put in large ceiling fixtures.
How to change a fluorescent lamp with G5 base
- Completely de-energize the luminaire with the switch in the switchboard.
- Remove the plafond. The part is usually secured with screws or snaps.
- Grasp the edges of the lamp and turn it 90 degrees around its axis in accordance with the direction indicated on the housing. The operation allows you to disconnect the contact and pull out the device.
- A new lamp with the same characteristics is selected.
- Carefully insert the edges of the new bulb into the appropriate grooves in the socket and rotate it 90 degrees around its axis. Sometimes you can hear a characteristic click when fixing.
- Install the lamp in its place.
- Check the operability of the circuit by connecting it to the power supply and clicking the switch.
If after installation the lamp does not turn on, you can try to move the new element in the grooves or repeat the installation procedure. Sometimes the device does not immediately make contact with the right elements in the socket.
Failure to start a fully serviceable new fixture is due to malfunctions in the starter or choke of the luminaire. To repair call a technician for repair.
G13
The G13 base differs from the G5 base only in its dimensions. The number next to the letter G defines the distance between the pins. The lamp is installed in the same way.
G23
Fixtures with G23 bases with a protrusion between the pins are often used in office and home lighting fixtures. Replacing these lamps has its own specifics.
Instructions for replacing a lamp with G23 socket:
- Disconnect the lamp from the socket.
- Place the fixture on the table with the lamp cover upside down for your convenience.
- Pull the edge of the lamp away from the plafond, gently releasing it from under the retaining clip. It is not uncommon for the brackets to be broken, which does not affect the operation of the lamp.
- Pull the lamp and, while rocking, pull it out of the socket. You may have to use a lot of force, but it is important to act as gently as possible on the bulb.
- Buy a new fluorescent bulb with the same specifications and dimensions. You can take the defective one to the store for comparison.
- Insert the new LL into the lamp. After placement it may be necessary to press on the end of the bulb to fix the device. A characteristic click should be heard.
Fluorescent lamps contain a certain concentration of mercury and are a high-risk waste product. They should never be thrown out with the regular garbage. You should find a special bin or contact a recycling service. recycling services for this type of waste.
GX23
The GX23 base is a variation of the most common G23. The difference is in the shape of the protrusion between the contacts. It is installed in the same way.
Safety precautions
When replacing fluorescent lamps, it is necessary to follow the standard rules:
- All work should be carried out with clean dry hands without contact with conductive surfaces. You can use special gloves.
- When removing the old lamp and screwing in the new one, hold only the plastic part underneath which the control gear. Strong impact on the bulb can cause damage.
- Select the luminaire for specific parameters without over- or underpowering it. Otherwise, unstable operation of the device with pulsations and rapid failure is likely.
- If the lamp breaksIf the lamp breaks, take immediate steps to decontaminate the room and dispose of the hazardous waste.
Video on topic: How to change a fluorescent light bulb yourself
The video describes in 5 steps the process of replacing the bulb
