Consequences of Mismatched Power Between Ballast and UV Lamp

Ballast power higher than lamp power

1. Excessive current accelerates lamp aging, blackening both ends of the tube, drastically shortening service life.

2. Severe flickering; overheating may cause tube rupture.

3. Extra power converts into heat, triggering thermal protection frequently.

4. UV output weakens rapidly, failing disinfection requirements.

2. Ballast power lower than lamp power

1. Insufficient starting voltage leads to failure to ignite the lamp or constant flickering.

2. The ballast runs under continuous overload, overheating quickly.

3. Frequent overcurrent & overheat protection shutdown, RCD tripping.

4. Internal capacitors and MOSFETs break down easily, permanently damaging the ballast.

General long-term hazards