???Breaking in Fluorescent lights???

[Jeff Weissman Electric]

My customer today said, when she bought the new Electronic Ballast fixture & T-8 lamps, the salesman told her to leave the fixture on for 24 hours to let the lamps "break in"

I had to laugh, but thought I'd ask if anyone else had heard of this before.

 

[mdshunk]

The T8's definitely do have a "break in" period, but my experience with mostly Phillips lamps is more like 1/2 an hour until a brand new lamp reaches full brilliance.

 

[stickboy1375]

Every morning I turn on the shop lights there is a warm up period...

 

[iwire]

Many Fluorescent dimmers I have installed had instructions for a 24 hour full on break in period for the lamps.

 

[JKinPA]

Most flourescent lamps require approx. 100hr burn in period at full brightness in order to burn off impurities in the fill gas of the lamp. If this procedure is not followed it can reduce the life of the lamp but this is only required if it is a dimming ballast.

 

[LarryFine]

. . . but this is only required if it is a dimming ballast.

Maybe so, but I recommend at least 24 hours for all fluorescents to all of my customers.

 

[Jeff Weissman Electric]

OK fine ...but,
I'm still not convinced about a break in period. But I'm open to seeing some documentation or proof. I tried various Google searches but can't find any thing.

 

[dwellselectric]

Break in period? interesting I would love to read about that if anyone has a link? I never heard of it also I must admit

 

[dezwitinc]

Break In Test Equipment

Break In Test Equipment

http://www.patentstorm.us/patents/7081715-description.html

http://www.simkar.com/troubleshooting.htm (See 3rd paragraph)

http://www.lithonia.com/controls/synergy/Technical bulletins/fluorescent_lamp_burn.htm

 

[cadpoint]

~~ The best is having it all glow the First Time. ~~
I think its the Brightest its going to be...
~ The Second it seeing it Lite at night from the outside for the First Time.~

There's not much gained from looking at devices, the Light just helps one
check their Bubble ... cause Surely you made it up Level ...