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    shader's Avatar
    shader Posts: 235, Reputation: 12
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    #1

    Mar 19, 2012, 03:20 PM
    Flush mount fluorescent shop light
    What is the reason a fluorescent shop light can't be flush mounted? I'm thinking air flow to cool the ballast?

    I want to install several more shop lights in my garage, but to clear the overhead door they need to be mounted directly parallel to the joist. All the lights I looked at say not to flush mount, suspend only. I have two lights in my basement flush mounted, but they are perpendicular to the joists, so I guess they get air flow as I haven't had any problems. All other lights are suspended. Any thoughts, ideas, etc... Thanks
    shader's Avatar
    shader Posts: 235, Reputation: 12
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    #2

    Mar 19, 2012, 03:26 PM
    Clarification---the lights are mounted ON the joists
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #3

    Mar 19, 2012, 04:28 PM
    The reason is air flow, to cool the ballast that is inside each fluorescent fixture. Always was mandatory for the older magnetic ballasts, they would and could get piping hot . Many fixtures offer a spacer as accessory. Even one inch is fine.
    shader's Avatar
    shader Posts: 235, Reputation: 12
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    #4

    Mar 19, 2012, 04:35 PM
    TK,
    Thanks for the info. I was thinking of going the spacer route if air flow was the issue, which you confirmed. These are the older mag ballasts, they get warm but not hot-but better safe than sorry...
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    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #5

    Mar 19, 2012, 04:39 PM
    When magnetic ballasts fail, believe me, they get HOT. I have no more fingerprints.
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