T5 problem...

[Teeb]

I have NEP 20" 6x18w T5's over my little grow out tank. Recently, one of the bulbs has stopped working. I've tried swapping different bulbs and always get the same issue. It's on the "actinic" 2 bulb switch. 1 bulb fires fine with no issues, the other bulb lights, but extremely dim with waves going up and down it. I took the fixture down and checked out the endcaps, they look fine with no corrosion or anything that I see could be causing a bad connection. I thought it was the ballast, but with the other bulb firing, I wasn't sure. Anyone have any ideas? If it is the ballast, anyone know where I go about getting a replacement? I know nanotuners has the cool new 30w upgrade, but this is just a small grow out tank and if I'm going to spend $200, I'll just go to MH. Any help would be appreciated.

[StevenSeas]

i believe that it is the ballast. However, I am not completely sure as the only other times I have seen this is on NO florescence tubes and in that case it was usually the starter. if you want you can pm me and I can get you some details on a cheap replacement if your not looking for manufacturer built ballasts.

[StevenSeas]

ps the "waves" are the pulses from the AC current at about 50-60 hertz if its what im thinking of so just kinda guesstimate the amount of pulses/waves, if you think its close then something is wrong in converting your wall AC current to DC current to drive your lights

[alton]

If there is nothing wrong with the ballast and or wiring it could be a bad socket? I believe HD or Lowes sells these if not than electrical supply houses sell them for around $5 if they are not WP. Sounds like you have a rapid start ballast which helps lamps last longer compared to the instant start ballast, but if it runs two lamps and one goes out they both go out or one looks dim. Like aggiereefer said try changing ballast first and go from there.