Dimming Ballasts

Dimming switches and other lighting controls that turn lights on and off and allow the light output to be dimmed are compatible with dimmable fluorescent ballasts. They're found in fluorescent lighting fixtures in conference rooms, schools, and other places where the lights are turned out for presentations or to save energy. To work together, dimming ballasts and lighting controls must employ the same dimming method and dimming type. Light bulbs are protected by ballasts from destructive power fluctuations that can degrade the quality of the light they provide. They switch on light bulbs with a burst of high voltage and then regulate the current to the bulbs for as long as they are on. Replacement ballasts should have the same voltage and start type as the original ballast, be able to power the number and kind of bulbs in the fixture, and fit into the fixture.