Which is faulty, ignition unit or flourescent tube ?

[bathroomswap]

Moved into house. In garage is a flourescent tube light but it doesn't work. Before I go out and spend money, I'd like to see what's wrong. As the wires on my mini tester do not stretch to either end of the tube , I thought I'd test the ignition unit. Is it as simple as testing a fuse or will that not work as it is more complicated inside ?

Thanks

 

[Steve]

DO NOT put a mini tester across the ends of a florry fitting. There are thousands of volts present, as i understand. Your tester will die, and you may die too.

If the tube is glowing at its ends, take the starter out live. If the tube then strikes, the starter is faulty. However, it is always best to replace starter and tube at the same time. Do this.

Then if it doesn't work and the fitting is goosed, buy a new one.

 

[securespark]

goosed

Love it when you talk technical...

 

[RF Lighting]

Before I go out and spend money,

Jeez, a new 6' tube and starter will only cost about £4.

As Crafty said, you are supposed to change both at the same time.