Fluorescent Ballasts
ProLampSales offers a wide selection of fluorescent ballasts. Find the fluorescent ballast you need easier by selecting from one of the products below. If you do not see what you are looking for, call 800.784.1998 to speak with one of our lighting specialists. In most cases, we can find the fluorescent ballast you need at a competitive price.
About Fluorescent Ballasts
Fluorescent ballasts are designed to run linear fluorescent, compact fluorescent, ultraviolet, germicidal, and circline light bulbs. Ballasts provide a starting voltage for the lamp and then limit the current. Fluorescent and UV bulbs require a higher starting voltage than the operating voltage to control the temperature of the gas in the lamp.
Magnetic Fluorescent Ballasts
The oldest type of ballast technology, magnetic ballasts are tried and true but inefficient compared to newer technology. These ballasts utilize a core and coil assembly transformer. This provides the voltage required to start the fluorescent bulb.
Electronic Fluorescent Ballasts
Newer, more efficient, and more reliable than magnetic ballasts, electronic ballasts use an integrated high-frequency inverter/switcher. An inductor limits the current after the lamp is started.
Ultraviolet & Germicidal Fluorescent Ballasts
Germicidal ballasts are very similar to fluorescent ballasts, and some fluorescent ballasts will run a range of ultraviolet germicidal lamps. In some cases, though, specialized UV bulbs require specialized UV ballasts, which may not be appropriate for architectural lighting. Specialty ultraviolet ballasts have been designed and tested to ensure the optimum operating wavelength and efficiency for germicidal and UV lamps.
Low Temperature Fluorescent Ballasts
Low temperature fluorescent ballasts have been designed to adjust when the temperature drops. This helps ensure the optimal light output from the light bulbs. They are used in coolers, refrigerators, and other settings where the temperature may drop below the operating temperature range of other ballasts.
