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pbuffing · Feb 2, 2007, 08:57 PM

I'm having difficulty wiring a fluorescent fixture to a wall plug. This has been an ongoing battle.
I changed the ballast, reworked the clips, BOUGHT a new fixture, still the same... if I get the light to come on by fiddling with the rotation of the bulb, then it won't re-light when unplugged then plugged in again.

I see no reason why using a wall plug should not work... Am I wrong.

I'm about to scream!

tkrussell · Feb 3, 2007, 03:27 AM

Is the fixture grounded with the green wire in the cord and the third prong of the plug? The green wire must connect to the metal frame of the fixture, sometimes best to use the nut holding the ballast. IF so, make sure the receptacle is grounded.

pbuffing · Feb 3, 2007, 09:43 AM

No it is not grounded with the third leg, the cord I used is a two prong. I did stick a separate leg into the ground and touched the frame... a real hokey setup. It really puzzles me, I get a positive test for current using an ac tester. It must be low voltage.

I should be able to use an adapter plug and run a separate leg for a test. I have been under the assumption that the 3rd leg (green) was for safety.

Thank you from Oregon for the response. Now I have a plan!

Thanks again,

tkrussell · Feb 3, 2007, 10:53 AM

The ground is for safety, but in addition, these types of fluorescent fixtures require the ground to start and to operate.