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Fluorescent & HID Ballasts – Magnetic, Electronic & Dimming

Shop magnetic, electronic, and dimming ballasts for fluorescent (T8/T5/T12, CFL) and HID (MH/HPS) lighting. The right ballast stabilizes current, cuts flicker, boosts efficiency, and extends lamp life for safer, more reliable illumination.

Electronic Magnetic Dimming Instant/Programmed Start 120–277V Fluorescent & HID
Buyers Guide Tips

What to Look for in Fluorescent & HID Ballasts

  • Lamp type & count: T8/T5/T12, CFL, MH/HPS; single or multi-lamp.
  • Start method: Instant vs. programmed start for frequent switching and cold starts.
  • Input voltage: 120–277 V standard; verify 347/480 V where required.
  • Ballast factor: Choose normal, low, or high output to meet light levels.
  • THD & power factor: Meet spec for efficiency and power quality.
  • Environment: Ambient temperature, sound rating, damp/wet, and vibration.
Why the right ballast matters: A mismatched ballast can shorten lamp life, cause flicker/buzz, and waste energy. A compatible, high-quality ballast enhances performance and reduces maintenance.

A ballast controls lamp voltage and current for ignition and steady operation. Electronic ballasts are compact, efficient, quiet, and flicker-free. Magnetic ballasts are heavier and can buzz or strobe but remain common in legacy HID systems.

Specialized options—instant-start, programmed-start, dimmable, hybrid, and emergency ballasts—match different startup behaviors, lamp-life goals, and control needs. Choosing correctly improves performance and compliance while reducing maintenance.

Replacing a failing ballast? Many facilities are moving to modern LED emergency light fixtures for lower upkeep and reliable battery backup.

💡 Pro Tip: Upgrading to LED emergency lighting reduces maintenance and provides dependable backup when power fails.

Specifications vary by model—confirm lamp compatibility, start method, input voltage, and environmental ratings on the product page.

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Fluorescent & HID Ballasts Spec Guide

Spec Snapshot

  • Lamp Compatibility: Match ballast to lamp type/count—T8/T5/T12, CFL, or HID (MH/HPS). For HID, verify ANSI lamp codes and ignitor needs.
  • Input Voltage: Universal 120–277 V on many models; some offer 347/480 V. Confirm frequency (50/60 Hz) and wiring lead lengths.
  • Start Method: Fluorescent instant-start for long-on cycles; programmed-start for frequent switching/cold starts. HID may require pulse-start/ignitor and observe restrike times.
  • Output & Power Quality: Select ballast factor (low/normal/high) to tune lumens. Specify high power factor and low THD per project spec for efficiency and power quality.
  • Dimming & Controls: Choose dimmable electronics (0–10 V, DALI, or step-dim) and confirm compatibility with occupancy/daylight controls.
  • Environment & Safety: Check ambient temperature, sound rating (use Sound A in occupied spaces), damp/wet/vibration ratings, EOL/thermal protection, and certifications (UL/CSA, FCC Part 18). Pair with UL 924 emergency ballasts where code requires egress lighting.

FAQs About Ballasts

What is a ballast?

A ballast limits current and provides the startup voltage for fluorescent or HID lamps, preventing excessive current that would damage the lamp.

What’s the difference between magnetic and electronic ballasts?

Electronic ballasts run lamps at high frequency for better efficiency, lower noise, and reduced flicker. Magnetic ballasts are bulkier, less efficient, and can hum or strobe, but remain common in legacy HID systems.

When should I use an instant-start vs. programmed-start ballast?

Use instant-start where lamps remain on for long periods (fewer starts). Choose programmed-start for frequent on/off cycling or cold starts to extend lamp life.

Can ballasts be dimmed?

Yes. Dimmable electronic ballasts support controls like 1–10 V, DALI, or analog interfaces for adjustable light levels.

Do HID lamps need special ballasts?

Yes. HID fixtures require ballasts that manage high ignition voltage and operating current. Electronic/digital HID ballasts typically offer better performance than magnetic types.

What is an emergency ballast?

An emergency ballast adds a backup battery and transfer circuit to power one or more lamps during outages, typically for 90 minutes to aid egress lighting.

Why is power factor important?

A high power factor improves energy efficiency and reduces reactive load on electrical systems. Quality ballasts include circuitry to correct power factor.

What is ballast factor?

Ballast factor compares lamp light output on a given ballast to a reference condition. Higher ballast factor increases brightness; lower factor saves energy.