An HID ballast controls or regulates the intensity of an HID lamp. It helps save energy and will eventually help you save on regular maintenance costs as compared to magnetic ballast HID lamps. The lifespan of an HID ballast is also much longer than any other type. It also produces a much higher burst of intensity and in turn creating a stronger light in the lamp. Although they are great for saving energy, money saving on the maintenance end, they still pose a threat to fail. If you are wondering why your HID lamp isn’t working, it could be due to the HID ballast needing replacement. It may spark but not fully light up. Fortunately, there is a way to repair it. You can call USA Electric in Los Angeles for repair or replacement or you can try these steps.
First, check for the proper voltage and amps for the HID ballast you are using. You can use a multimeter to check it. If the voltage is too high, you may have exceeded the correct amperage and overloaded the ballast. If this is the case, you will need to reset the voltage and amperage or change the light so that it matches the ballast requirements.
Second, try checking the wiring on the ballast. The wiring must be in good condition and must have adequate power. If that isn’t the case, you will have to adjust the wiring. Purchase a ballast repair kit, read the instructions and either repair or replace the wiring according to the instructions. Once again, if you’d rather have a professional take a look at it, call USA Electric in Los Angeles at 1-800-956-9737.
Next look at the Solenoids. If you see any signs of corrosion, swap them out for new ones.
Sometimes people overlook one of the most common problems with HID ballasts. It can often be something as simple as a connection. Make sure there is a proper connection by soldering the connections in order to make good contact with one another. The manufacturer will usually press the wires together. Though this is a method commonly used, it isn’t always the best. The wires tend to loosen and you will have to fix them to make a better connection.
The last resort, if no other methods are successful, is to purchase a new HID system altogether. You should only follow this method if none of the previous steps taken work. At USA Electric, we can relieve all of the above problems because once we come out to inspect the issue, we are skilled at fixing it and fixing it right. For more about how we can repair or replace your HID ballasts, check us out at www.usaelectric.com.
USA Electric is your trusted neighborhood electrician.
