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SparkyDS · Joined: 16 Jan 2008 Posts: 4 Location: Oklahoma City

Hi, Can I run a 277-volt fluorescent fixture on 240 volts? These are designed for use in USA, suspended ceiling, 4' x 2' with 4 tubes. What problems should I expect if I try it?
Thanks!
DS

thescruff · Moderator Joined: 03 May 2003 Posts: 4400 Location: Bath

Dim lights I should think, but wait for the experts

SparkyDS · Joined: 16 Jan 2008 Posts: 4 Location: Oklahoma City

Hi,
Do you have many USA-based experts participating? If not, do you know of a similar USA version of "Ask the Question?" I know our electrical code is different, and there may be some subtlties e.g. due to frequency that might make an experienced UK expert give a skewed answer for a USA application.
Thanks,
DS

thescruff · Moderator Joined: 03 May 2003 Posts: 4400 Location: Bath

Yes he usually logs on some when during the night Cool

sparkygerbo · Joined: 31 Jan 2008 Posts: 10 Location: Aotearoa

Thats a hard one.......and at a guess ( and id put money on it ) that it prob would start.

If a Flouro fitting is applied with a reduced voltage , then depending on how much , the fittings will prob work but flicker.

I have been to a job once and some clown had put a dimmer on a flouro cct and when operated the tubes flickered!

b · Posted: Thu Jan 31, 2008 12:48 pm Post subject:

no... you cant do 277 flourescent fixture on 240... you will ruin the ballast.
b from michigan USA
(how much u sending sparkygerbo?)

SparkyDS · Joined: 16 Jan 2008 Posts: 4 Location: Oklahoma City

Thanks! I suspected as much, so I didn't buy the fixtures. They were selling cheap at auction, but I would have had to drive 3 hours each way to get them, and I still don't know what voltage they required. DS