Amanda

Sooo...the (2) 48" light strips that were given to me? Yeah...she left them in the rain. I'm guessing they're no good anymore? They don't work when plugged in. Is there ANYTHING that can be done? I REALLY don't want to throw them away, that would be expensive garbage.

capekate

Ohh Amanda..
thats a shame. Im not one for electronics, but I know when my hood lights didnt work it was the starter that went. That round silver doo hicky that is in the base of the hood. Either that or the wires etc got wet, but I have a feeling that those things are pretty water proof.
Hope one of our electrical genius's will be able to give you some advice on what to do.

ifixoldhouses

ya prollably just the starter, the ballast is waterproof I'd think.

coffeebean

maybe open it up as much as you can and let it dry out some more?

Shawnie

id dry it out more also..ive dropped my lights in the tank before (brunette moment!!) and after a day of drying out or so, they were fine ...

IIIHawKIII

Initially they may work, but awhile down the road the metal that got wet may start to corrode. But if it was just rain, the hood might have protected the internal components.

I would just be careful when you first plug it in. Might arc and pop a breaker. If it doesn't, I would keep an eye on it for a few hours and make sure it doesn't get hot or anything.

Amanda

Water actually poured out of the fixtures when I picked them up...

IIIHawKIII

well, that could have been accumulated on top of the plastic shielding inside. more than likely it is a "water resistant" enclosure, so it might still be ok. i'd just make sure you got it pretty dry. if you could get your hands on a dehumidifier and put it in a small closet or something, that would be the best.

Amanda

They're in my basement where a dehumidifier is constantly running.
I sure hope they work, I can't believe she left them out in the rain!!

bike

Spray what electronics you can with WD-40 (Water Displacment Formula #40). Will help to prevent rust and may push out any water left in there.

04_si

i wouldnt spray WD-40 on them. I would let them dry out really well, take the covers off so you can see the wiring inside, letting it all dry out. If it still doesnt work, look into what is causing the problem (bulbs/starter/ballast) most of that you can probably rob from other lights