Problem With 2-way Light Switches in Kitchen Only Working After 6 or 7 Attempts Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[JohnB333]

i have a strange problem! The fluorescent light tube in the kitchen is controlled by 2 x 2-way switches. Yesterday the light would not operate from either of the switches. I then repeatedly operated one of the switches and at the 6th attempt the light came on! The same thing happened with the other switch, i.e.the light came on only after 6/7 attempts.
There doesn't appear to be any loose wires at the back of the 2 switches, and the tube remains functional, without any flickering, until I finally switch it off.
Would it be worthwhile replacing the switches, or could it be more complicated than this?

Any advice would most welcome!

Thanks!

[ericmark]

It could be the fluorescent lamp or the switch. Flicking a switch on and off will often get a fluorescent which is ageing or under voltage to fire up. Often you will see the fluorescent flash as it tries to start.

I would swap tube and starter first if that does not work then swap switches. Do change both tube and starter together (if it has a starter) as an ageing tube tends to stress the starter and a stressed starter can damage a new tube so swap as a pair.

[JohnB333]

Thanks for your reply, ericmark. The tube and holder are relatively new, about 6 months old and still under warranty. There does not appear to be any starter with the equipment. I will do as you advise and swop the lot over for a new set. Hope I can find the Homebase receipt!

[JohnB333]

Problem solved! Home Base replaced it...............without the original receipt! Wired it up, (simple even for me), and it worked first time!