The ELE002 Aftermarket Lamp Starter FS-5 is a professional-grade glow switch starter engineered for rapid and reliable ignition of preheat fluorescent lamps. Designed as a direct replacement FS-5 starter, this component is essential for maintaining the operational efficiency of 4W, 6W, and 8W fluorescent lamps commonly found in specialized HVACR lighting, germicidal UV air purifiers, and refrigerated display cases. Featuring a standard turn and lock base (2-pin configuration), it ensures a secure mechanical and electrical connection to the lampholder, preventing arcing and premature lamp failure. This non-reset type starter is optimized for 120V circuits, providing the necessary inductive kick to strike the arc in F4T5, F6T5, and F8T5 tubes. By facilitating a smooth start sequence, the ELE002 reduces electrode wear and eliminates persistent fluorescent flickering, ensuring your lighting system meets the rigorous demands of commercial and industrial environments without the need for frequent maintenance cycles. Key Benefits Universal Compatibility: Specifically calibrated as an 8 watt lamp starter but fully compatible with 4W and 6W preheat circuits. Secure Installation: The turn and lock base design ensures the starter remains seated under vibration, a critical requirement for HVAC and transport refrigeration applications. Enhanced Lamp Longevity: Precise timing of the bimetallic switch prevents excessive "striking" attempts, protecting the filaments of your T5 fluorescent tubes. Industrial Build: Engineered to withstand the temperature fluctuations typical of cold storage and HVAC air handling units. Common Questions How do I know if the FS-5 starter needs replacement versus the lamp? If the lamp ends glow orange but the center does not strike, or if the lamp displays persistent fluorescent flickering without fully igniting, the starter is likely exhausted. If the tube ends are severely blackened, the lamp itself should be replaced alongside the starter. Can I use an FS-5 starter for a 20W or 40W lamp? No. The FS-5 is specifically rated for low-wattage fluorescent lamps (4W-8W). Using it with higher wattage lamps, like those requiring an FS-2 or FS-4, will result in failure to ignite or immediate damage to the starter due to incorrect current flow. Is this starter compatible with LED replacement tubes? Most "plug-and-play" LED tubes require a specific LED dummy starter or for the ballast/starter circuit to be bypassed entirely. Always check the wiring diagram of your LED conversion kit before installing a traditional glow switch starter. Disclaimer: While we strive for 100% accuracy, product data and specifications are subject to change. Please contact our team to confirm compatibility or technical details before purchasing.
