65 watt pc bulbs in a 55 watt canopy

rudy · #1 10-26-2005, 03:37 AM

I have 2 36 inch double pc strips I added some 65 watt bulbs to. It came with 5 watt so was wondering if I will have any issues?

AC33 · #2 10-26-2005, 05:34 AM

From Hellolights:

"Conclusion: Lamps marked 55W or 65W can be interchanged with similar or equivalent light output performance. The ballast drives the bulb."

http://www.hellolights.com/55wat6721ger.html

Bob I · #3 10-26-2005, 04:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AC33

From Hellolights:

"Conclusion: Lamps marked 55W or 65W can be interchanged with similar or equivalent light output performance. The ballast drives the bulb."

http://www.hellolights.com/55wat6721ger.html

The statement is not quite correct. In actuality a ballast is a current limiting device. Once the arc is struck in a fluorescent lamp, the current, if left alone, would increase exponentially, and quickly blow up the lamp. The ballast puts the brakes on the current.

The rest of the statement is correct. Both bulbs can be used safely.