[uokman]

I installed 6 - 8' shop lights (2x2 T8's) in my work shop. They are controlled on a 4-way switch circuit. The lights work great, however when they are on they create so much RFI noise that my radio turns to complete static! Even my truck radio "sizzles out" when I pull up to the workshop when the lights are on!!!

These are cold ignition start lights from Cooper. Any ideas what is causing this problem and how I can fix it???

Thanks,

Frank

 

[dSilanskas]

Get used to it your using a H/O bulb

 

[Scuba_Dave]

I have (3) sets of T-8's in my basement & I do not have any interference
I'm actually going with CFL's in recessed cans instead
Less power & I can spread the light out better
I'm going the same route with the garage

Is the radio on the same circuit?

 

[uokman]

Get used to it your using a H/O bulb

The bulbs are only 32w each...?

 

[uokman]

I have (3) sets of T-8's in my basement & I do not have any interference
I'm actually going with CFL's in recessed cans instead
Less power & I can spread the light out better
I'm going the same route with the garage

Is the radio on the same circuit?

Yes, the radio is on the same circuit at this time as I'm still using Temp power. Why would it make my truck radio get staticy when I pull up near the shop??

 

[wildcat]

Yes, the radio is on the same circuit at this time as I'm still using Temp power. Why would it make my truck radio get staticy when I pull up near the shop??

What kind of ballasts are in your light fixtures? My guess is magnetic because of the radio issues. An electronic ballast will not cause this issue, or at least no to such a severe degree.

 

[InPhase277]

Sounds like a shielding and grounding problem. Make sure the metal housing of the lights are grounded properly. Too many times I've seen a ground wire cut off or not connected by the installer.

 

[uokman]

HELP!!!!! I'm about ready for a barn burning...

Well, I have checked the grounding, tried different ballasts that are "supposed" to be the most noiseless ones available - GE MAX N Ultra... and alas I still can not operate my radio without MAJOR RFI noise. Even my truck radio fuzzes out within 20 ft of the building when the flourescent lights are on!

What the heck do I try next to fix this? I am literally about ready to burn down the building...

Does anyone have suggestions?... matches and some kerosene?:whistling2:

 

[uokman]

Nobody has had this problem and knows a "fix"????