fluorescent fixtures can be affected if they're not grounded. There is
usually one ballast per every two lamps. A two lamp fixture has one ballast
and a four lamp fixture would have two ballasts. This does not hold true for
electronically ballasted fluorescent fixtures though. As the lamps, and
ballasts get old, it becomes more difficult for the lamps to light. Loose
sockets and lamps not inserted properly will also cause problems




"badgolferman" wrote in message
...
I have flourescent lights in my kitchen. There are three units within
the recessed ceiling with a plastic cover over the entire thing. There
are two switches, one on each side of the kitchen to turn on the lights.

These lights sometimes take a long time (minutes) to turn on when
either switch is used. I haven't been able to narrow it down to the
switches as being the culprit so I must assume the ballast is the cause.

Can anyone offer any advice on how to troubleshoot any further and
where to find the ballast? Does each flourescent unit have its own
ballast or can there be one for the whole system? Why would all three
be affected if there are separate ballasts? I'm still suspicious of
the wiring myself.