250 w de lights sometimes. HELP

[Walkette]

I have a 250w Hamiltom HQI balast and a 250 w DE 14k bulb
It lights sometimes (rarely) and sometimes it will flash for about a second.

I need some sugestions on where to start to fix this problem

[thebrian]

Possibly a contact issue between the bulb and the bracket. Maybe take some sandpaper to the contacts.

[Walkette]

Thanks
The contacts are clean stiil the same problem.

[cward]

I've had this problem before with the same bulbs on an Icecap ballast. It seemed to go away after a day or two.

[seandanekind]

Perhaps the ballasts' ignitor is fried... Can you successfully fire other bulbs with that ballast?

What about trying that lamp on another ballast?

Does the lamp look clean or dirty on the inside?

Can you see the tabs inside the lamp? They're about the size of a thumbtack head just outside the inner bulb. Some lamps have 1, some have 2 - not sure on the Hamilton until I go home and see my old ones. They should be clean and shiny. If not, they may not function properly and cause your problems.

[Walkette]

seandanekind
You nailed it the tab (it only has one) looks as if it is cracked and chipped looks like I need a new bulb.

[CaveManNOhio]

I've bought bulbs from here. They have many aquarium supplies for a good price and quick shipping. E-Bay Store (http://stores.ebay.com/AQUACAVE-Quality-Aquarium-Supplies_Lighting-Bulbs_W0QQcolZ2QQdirZQ2d1QQfsubZ13QQftidZ2QQtZkm)

[Walkette]

If anybody needs help with their lighting PM me!

I figured out mine if you tap it very lighly it comes on.

:hammer: