Flashing CFL

[Griffin]

Chaps,

I know this has been discussed a few time before, however i have the following.

Flashing CFL on a 1 way switching circuit, No dimmers in circuit just std switch. Have had no problems for months before.

I have swapped CFL lamps between rooms in property to see if problem moves with lamp. Nope it continues to flicker.
I have fitted a std 60w lamp doesn't flash
I haven't carried out any testing yet, but it looks like I may need to fit a capacitor to take care of any induced voltage etc.

Anyone got any details of suitable cap to fit??

Or any other comments

Thanks

G

 

[mogga]

CFL Lamps flicker anyways just depends on how badly if you spot it they are CRAP for this its miniscule flicker but noticable if you are reading paper ect

 

[Griffin]

In this instance it is very noticable when it is switched off.
Must be very annoying when trying to watch eastenders!!!

G

 

[mogga]

have you tried a different make of CFL? or different lamp sounds more like the lamp than induced currents ect

 

[Griffin]

I haven't tried a new lamp, but did swap lamps between fittings.

i.e. Lounge to dining room and vice versa. Lamp only flickers on lounge fitting.

And only for the last week or so.

Little old lady has had no work done or changed the lamps etc...etc...

G

 

[chris gray]

fit a stubby cfl

 

[Griffin]

Has anyone fitted a cap before, what size + where to get.

Do Neweys sell them or is an RS job??

G

 

[RexT]

Hi Griffin,

I believe it was a 100 nano Farad but I am not too sure. Somewhere I recall reading it was a part from RS components or even Maplin.

I have seen this on compact flurescent lamps and as said could be poor quality, however it is always interesting to know why they flicker when the power is supposedly switched off and not present. I know you have the effects of electro magnetic fields which are supposed to cause the tube to excite but does seem a poor design.

I think it has been mentioned on this forum or possibly the one on the IET forum.

Sorry I cant be of much help.

Best wishes

Rex

 

[Jimmyb]

ive just had this problem and it was to do with other 2 way switching via 2core strapper on the same circuit and singles with no earth with them, i also replaced the switch and the problemn was gone, i just couldnt understand why but was pleased it was sorted and went home for a beer

 

[Had8Lives]

I have heard of this problem being a faulty CFL. I best to change the CFL for a new one.

 

[Griffin]

Update:

Arrived at little old ladys house, changed the kitchen lights she wanted swapping out.

The decided to investigate the flashing CFL. (went armed with some RC networks from RS)

(bearing in mind I changed the CFL for a std tungsten lamp last week)

She said' I couldn't get that light to switch off last night ' mmmmmmmmm i am thinking

Then when i switched the light off the tungsten lamp was also glowing. 'Have you had any work done recently?? i asked 'no' was the reply

Any way the long and short of it is, the bath was removed and changed for a shower 2 weeks ago, Plumber didn't do up one of the unions correctly, JB under bath floor full of water causing the light to do strange things.

Might send the RC's back

G

 

[RexT]

Hi Griffin,

Just goes to show what the causes could be which is where the time goes on investigation. At least you have found them which is good!

Would be interested to hear how this pans out in the end.

Best wishes

Rex