UV bulbs can you test one?

[rich111]

No sign of my UV bulb operating. Is there a way to test it with a meter? Filaments are ok.

Could be the ballast of course.

Do UV bulbs just degrade?

I did notice that sometimes it would not start and after a few switch off/on's it would start. Is this a sign of a bad ballast or bulb?

The tube looks a little smokey in colour.

Lastly, I am led to believe that not all bulbs are the same. Oase being good ones. In the UK an ebay 24w bulb is £12. Oase want £45. Will an Oase last 4 times longer or output more UV?

 

[Stephen Noble]

No sign of my UV bulb operating. Is there a way to test it with a meter? Filaments are ok.

Yes. I have a meter that tests UV but I only use it for my reptiles. I never use UV in any of my ponds.

Could be the ballast of course.

Do UV bulbs just degrade?

Yes, they wear out. Some have a life of only 6 months while others can last about a year. They slowly degrade regardless of the brand and quality.

I did notice that sometimes it would not start and after a few switch off/on's it would start. Is this a sign of a bad ballast or bulb?

Probably both.

The tube looks a little smokey in colour.

Replace it.

Lastly, I am led to believe that not all bulbs are the same. Oase being good ones. In the UK an ebay 24w bulb is £12. Oase want £45. Will an Oase last 4 times longer or output more UV?

No idea but really, why do you use UV? Your pond doesn't need it.