How often should i change pc bulbs??

[fishfreek]

I bought a new 96w smartlite retro pc fixture last october. What is the avrage bulb life in these lights? (i've read about one year) I noticed lately that they are taking a minute or two to warm up before becoming totally lit. Is this normal over time?? I also noticed the end opposite of the end cap on the bulb was recently starting to darken a bit. Is this an indication of the bulb needing to be changed or normal ware and tare over time.
thanks,

 

[fishfreek]

Mark, any ideas as far as the things i mentioned about how the bulb ends looked or how its been turning on lately?
thanks,

 

[wamp]

With the ends of bulbs turning is an indication of 2 things. Bulbs going bad or ballast going bad... Hmmm...what else could it be?
I had a PC setup on my 75 gallon tank. My ballast started to go bad and the bulbs did not last long on that ballast. The ends would turn black just as you have described also.. Not saying it is your ballast, just some info on my problem..

 

[fishfreek]

What are the signs of a ballast going bad becides bulb ends darkening? I know its a genral question but its my first pc and don't really know a whole lot about pc lights. My ballast is only 6-7 months old, hope it isn't shot yet.

 

[fishfreek]

I run them 10 hrs a day. Thats why i can't figure out whats wrong.

 

[fishfreek]

Now my bulb will only fire up part way(about 15th of the normal light output) Now what do you think it is?? Doesn't seem to have a short or anything. Like i said, i'm not sure what to expext to happen when a bulb or ballast will go bad. Please help. Maybe i'll also try to post this on the reef board.
thanks,

 

[richard rendos]

I would get in contact with the people you bought the lights from and ask them what to do. They may have tech support. It may be under warranty. That would be the first thing I would do.

 

[fishfreek]

Got in touch with CSL this morning. They will be replacing the bulb(free of charge). Thats customer service for you. IMO, if a company stands behind their product like CSL does, it makes them honest as well as trustworthy.