Changing T5 ballast or any of the electronic ballasts on the market might seem like a difficult task, but it is actually not that hard. The first time you do it you might take a little extra time since the process is new. By the third or fourth time, you will have the actions down pat. However, depending on what type you are using and how long it lasts, you might forget from one change to another, so you will need to follow the step by step direction. These directions apply to high pressure sodium models, as well as metal haloid and fluorescent lighting fixtures. The part you are changing is the part that controls the electrical outlet to the bulb and ensures the lighting will run consistently. Sometimes problems might occur that affect the quality of the lighting. Changing the system properly is important in order to avoid flickering and dimness. If you suspect a problem, you are going to have to check both the bulb and the part you are changing.
Start by disconnecting the power and letting it cool down. This might take a few minutes, so if you when you are ready to make the change, unplug the light and focus on something else for a few minutes. If the light is directly connected to a circuit breaker, that needs to be shut down as well.
Next, unscrew the existing fixture. It is located inside of the housing system. This is the body of the mechanism and the part that helps keep the system from overheating. Many systems require a screwdriver for this part, but there are also systems where hand screwing are enough to get it undone. Again, make sure everything is cool before you begin this process or you might get burned. The wiring now needs to be disconnected from the existing structure. This will require a screwdriver, but you will need to check your system to determine whether a flathead or Phillips head screwdriver will work best. When doing this, pay careful attention to which wires are connected in certain places so it will be easy to rewire the system. Disconnect the wires from the socket, the capacitor and the igniter.
Once the wires from all three mechanisms are disconnected, re connect these wires to the new device. This is why it was important to pay attention when disconnecting. Since you are doing it relatively quickly, it should be easy to remember, but if you have doubts, jot down a few notes. Make sure all of the wires are tight once they are reconnected.
Finally, screw the system back into place and turn on the light. If you have tripped the circuit breaker, you will need to turn it back on. If there is a problem and the light does not come back on, check to make sure your wires are tight enough. If that still does not work, the wires were either connected in the wrong places or the new device has a fault and does not work. Double check the wires and if need be, return the new device for a working replacement.