AI Sol ballast failure

[ReeferAl]

I have 2 AI Sol blue LED fixtures. One of the ballasts failed about 6 months ago. It was still within warranty and AI replaced it no questions asked. The fixtures are now beyond warranty and the 2nd ballast failed. I didn't ask for a replacement since it is out of warranty, but just ordered a replacement.

My question is just, have these ballasts had a problem with frequent failures or am I just unlucky?

Allen

 

[power boat jim]

Just unlucky, I had mine for years and no issues (knocks on wood).

 

[chadfarmer]

I know a guy that got 10 sols and have had to replace ballasts on all of them

 

[rogerwilco357]

on average what do these ballast cost to replace as I may be in the market for some used units and may need to consider replacing the ballast cost into my offers.

 

[pwreef]

They are not ballasts. They are DC power supplies. They convert AC 110V to DC Voltage. There is no reason why you could not get a more reliable/fan cooled large power supply to power all your lights. You just have to match voltage/current correctly.

 

[ReeferAl]

They are not ballasts. They are DC power supplies. They convert AC 110V to DC Voltage. There is no reason why you could not get a more reliable/fan cooled large power supply to power all your lights. You just have to match voltage/current correctly.

Duh! Thanks for pointing that out. I really should have known but have ballasts on the mind from other lighting. Getting power supplies elsewhere is definitely something to consider if they fail again. The question then is, where to get more reliable power supplies?

Allen.

 

[pwreef]

Can you post a picture of the label on it?

 

[ReeferAl]

I'll try late this evening- I won't be home til 9pm. The specs are 36v, 90 watts output. Input is variable voltage- it will work with 110 and 220v mains.

I found many different power supplies online. All are made in China (isn't everything). Of those that looked the same as the AI power supply, they ranged in price from $17 to $199. The AI supplies were about $50 if I remember right. So, is there any difference between a $17 and a $199 power supply? How can you tell when paying more actually gets you better quality?

Allen

 

[pwreef]

For example you can use Meanwell HLG-150H-36. Its a 150W power supply with no fan. IP67 weather protection. Has 5 year warranty. Around $70. Getting an over-rated PS will probably ensure that its not running at it's max current, so it should last way beyond 5 yr span, if your tank lasts this long.