Why won't my light come on when I flip the switch?

Question

I have two overhead lights wired to the switch. One comes on like a champ when I hit the switch, the other comes on sometimes and sometimes not (the one that takes its sweet time is a florescent, the other's incand.) Is the problem with the bulbs, the ballast, the connection at the light, the switch? The fixture's been up there with the same bulbs and ballast for years, but it still comes on, sometimes.

I forgot to mention that jiggling the switch seems to help entice the thing to light up.

Answer 1

First using a test meter check the voltage at the fixture in question. You should have between 110 and 120 Volts AC present. If the voltage is less or varies you have a problem with the switch or wiring, If the voltage is steady and between 110 to 120 volts then the problem is in the fixture. The lamp, the ballast or in some older fixtures you could have a starter. A starter is the least expensive, then the lamp and the ballast is the most expensive. Sometimes with an older fixture it is better to replace the fixture if the ballast is bad. If unsure of how to test voltage safely get an electrician as this can be dangerous.

Answer 2

It could be many things. The switch since you wiggle it and that seems to help. Check the connections there first, then go through the system and check all connections. Last I would look at the florescent light and then the ballast. (Cheapest first)

Answer 3

Sounds like the lamp or the ballast need to be replaced.

Answer 4

Replace the fluorescent lamp.
It's more likely the lamp than the ballast.

Answer 5

Sounds like a poor connection along with a worn balast.