In my garage are 2 fluorescent light fixtures that suddenly won't turn on when I hit the single rocker switch that controls both fixtures (neither of them turn on now). I checked the circuit breaker, but it's on. There are 2 GFCI outlets in the garage, and they are both working (the red lights are lit). I tried changing the bulbs, but no luck.
Here's the strange part: When I turn off the circuit breaker, then flip it back on, both of those GFCI outlets POP off. I then have to manually push the little button to turn the red light back on. But if I flip the circuit breaker off then on again, POP, both GFCI outlets go out again. In the mean time, the 2 fluorescent light fixtures still don't work.
Anyone have any thoughts on what might be wrong?
Thanks!
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It is possible that the ballasts have gone bad in your fluorescent fixtures. There is a tester for lamps, but it is cost prohibitive for the home user. Your electrician may have one. You could also see if the lamps are good by placing them in a working fixture.
I do not believe it could be the ballast as you say there are 2 light fixtures that are not working.
You did say you checked the circuit breaker and it was on - does that mean that you did not flip it off and then on again? My son always tells me that is the first thing I have to do.
I hope you can find an easy inexpensive solution but - if not - do you know anyone who "knows" an electrician that might have an answer as that might be your best solution - otherwise - you may have to bite the bullet and call an electrician.
I hope someone else comes along with a better answer.
So this is strange... I was about to swap out the switch to see if maybe it was the culprit when I remembered that our garage has a SECOND switch that also works both of the light fixtures (we never use that switch so I had forgotten all about it). Anyway, I flipped THAT switch and guess what? The lights went on. Wow. So I went back to the "bad" switch and flipped it, and guess what? It worked. What the heck? Strange, right?
The only thing still bugging me is that when I flip the circuit breaker off then back on again, both of the GFCI outlets in the garage still pop off -- which is making me think that something still isn't right. Anyone know what the problem might be?
Thanks again...
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