Although Metal Halide lighting is very effective for many different applications, there are some things that you just have to keep in mind to ensure that you're able to get the lighting solutions that you need. Metal halide options are seemingly endless and can serve just about any need that you have when it comes to various types of lighting. It doesn't matter whether you use them for growing, aquarium lighting, or any other application because they can be a great source of light. They can be very effective for your lighting needs, but it can also prove to be quite troublesome if you run into problems. Fortunately, there are some easy tips for how to know if your metal halide ballast is bad.
Obviously, when your light fixture stops working, you have a problem. Determining if the problem is just a burnt out bulb or if the ballast is bad can be a little tricky. If you have access to another light fixture that will accept the same bulbs, attempt to use them in that fixture, but only if they are rated to hold the type of bulb that you have. Otherwise, you risk shorting out another ballast, making the process more trouble than it's worth. If you don't have access to another fixture, look at the bulbs themselves. When they burn out, they will usually be dark on the end, showing their wear. However, if the metal halide ballast is burnt out, the sockets might have a dark, burned, or otherwise abnormal appearance.
You can try replacing the lamps, because even the more expensive metal halide bulbs will be more affordable than buying a new metal halide ballast kit when you don't know what the issue is. If the new bulbs don't work in the fixture, then it needs to be replaced. If they do work, the problem is solved. It's critical that you take the time to check this out, because attempting to use a bad ballast can be an electrical hazard of huge proportions. Always make sure that you unplug your it before messing with it. This is critical. If it is not bad, or even if it has a short, you're risking serious trouble if you try to fix it or see what's wrong while it's still getting power.
It doesn't matter if the fixture is turned off because as long as it is plugged it, it's getting power. Just unplug it before you do anything and you'll be fine. If you end up having to replace your metal halide ballast, don't despair. If there is a manufacturer's defect, you need to know what is wrong. If you just did something with it that you shouldn't have, you will know that too. Aside from serious malfunctions or user error, your fixture should last for a reasonably long time without trouble. Make sure that you're using the right bulbs that the ballast is rated for, and that there is enough space for the heat to dissipate so that the bulbs don't overheat the fixture and cause it to short out.
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