Brand new shop fluorescent lighting.. BUZZ?!

**ThrillHo** · 03-28-2010, 09:05 PM

I just added a twin 48" fluorescent shop light to my work bench area and after a few minutes of being on, it has started emitting a very annoying buzzing sound. I googled the situation, but didn`t find any help as most of those answers either had to do with a dimmer switch, or old ballasts or bulbs. This is not on a dimmer, and both the ballast and the bulbs are brand new, as I just purchased them today. Anyone know what could be going on? Admittedly the ballast was incredibly inexpensive (9 dollars from home depot), but does that mean that it`s OK to buzz? I appreciate any help.

**focus2069** · 03-28-2010, 09:08 PM

i got the same 9 dollar ones a while ago.

mine buzz too.

get a louder radio

**Lrall** · 03-28-2010, 10:16 PM

Your problem is most likely the cheap ballast. But...for 9 bones you cant complain too much!!

**ADetailedFinish** · 03-29-2010, 06:01 PM

It`s def the ballast... I`m a certified commercial electrician and the buzzing is coming from the electro-magnetic ballast... you can`t expect the world when you buy cheap stuff... Typical 2 lamp ballasts run around $25

**ThrillHo** · 03-29-2010, 08:12 PM

Originally Posted by ADetailedFinish

It`s def the ballast... I`m a certified commercial electrician and the buzzing is coming from the electro-magnetic ballast... you can`t expect the world when you buy cheap stuff... Typical 2 lamp ballasts run around $25

So chances are this is the price range I need to shoot for in order to have a buzz free light fixture? I mean, I know they tend to hum a little, but this is absurd.

**BIGDAVE** · 03-29-2010, 08:51 PM

The buzzing comes from the magnetic ballast, not the bulbs. Electronic ballasts emit no sound at all. Change the ballast to an electronic ballast and enjoy the silence.

**focus2069** · 03-29-2010, 11:09 PM

if you dislike the buzzing, you will dislike the "strobe" effect they give off when it gets cold outside...that doesnt go away till it warms up.

**ThrillHo** · 03-29-2010, 11:51 PM

Originally Posted by Focus2069

if you dislike the buzzing, you will dislike the "strobe" effect they give off when it gets cold outside...that doesnt go away till it warms up.

I live in southern california. What is this "cold" that you speak of? : )

**JohnKleven** · 03-30-2010, 06:50 PM

You should upgrade your lights to digital ballasts, it will make them more quiet, and efficient. Check with your local utilities department, they may have a "Green" project in your area where you will pay next to nothing to get them replaced. If I were you I would make the whole shop even louder and get a bunch of metal halides, and do what Focus 2069 says and turn up the radio.

John