1500mm strip light blowing tubes

[Andyb01]

Noticed one of the strip lights in my garage was out so I replaced the tube and when I switched it on - one flash and then nothing - another dead tube. I assumed that it was a faulty tube so got a replacement from B&Q - re-fitted that and - yep - same result. So before I blow (excuse the pun) any more readies on replacement tubes - not to mention wearing out my welcome at the B&Q Customer Service Desk - I am trying to isolate the fault. It's a single strip light - about 5 years old and it's one of two identical fittings in the garage (the other one is fine). I have done a visual check of the wiring in the ballast and all the connections are rock solid. Could the starter be the fault here or is it more likely to require an entirely new fitting? I don't want to change the starter and tube again only to find that the same thing happens as I don't have an infinite budget to spend on tubes while I isolate the fault.

Any help appreciated as I can't find anything on the net that suggests faulty starters will instantly blow a brand new tube in the way that this fault appears to be.

Thanks

Andy

 

[HullMarc]

Ballast has gone. Easier to buy a whole new fitting.

 

[Andyb01]

Ballast has gone. Easier to buy a whole new fitting.

Exactly what I needed to know - cheers. I may get both replaced as I suspect the other one will not be far behind it.

 

[Steve]

Get one with an electronic ballast.

 

[RF Lighting]

Might just be a failed switch starter. You are meant to replace the tube and starter at the same time.