1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective replacement of the Flowtron BF-210 UV Bulb. This 7-watt, 5.25-inch U-tube lamp is designed to maintain the optimal luring power of your Flowtron insect control unit. Regular replacement ensures maximum black light output for effective pest control.
The Flowtron BF-210 replacement bulb is compatible with the following Flowtron insect control models: PV-440, PV-75, and PV-440A.
2. Safety Information
- Always unplug the insect control unit from the power outlet before attempting any maintenance or bulb replacement.
- Allow the unit to cool down completely before handling the bulb.
- Handle the new bulb carefully by its base to avoid touching the glass, as oils from your skin can reduce bulb life.
- Dispose of old bulbs according to local regulations for fluorescent lamps.
- Do not operate the unit with a damaged or broken bulb.
3. Setup and Bulb Replacement
Replacing the UV bulb is a straightforward process. Follow these steps carefully:
- Disconnect Power: Ensure the Flowtron insect control unit is unplugged from the electrical outlet.
- Access Bulb Compartment: Open the top hood or access panel of your Flowtron unit. Refer to your specific unit's manual for exact instructions on opening the housing.
- Remove Old Bulb: Gently grasp the base of the old UV bulb and pull it straight out from its socket. If the bulb is hot, allow it to cool first.
- Insert New Bulb: Align the pins on the base of the new Flowtron BF-210 UV bulb with the slots in the socket. Carefully push the bulb straight into the socket until it is firmly seated. Do not force the bulb.
- Secure Housing: Close the top hood or access panel of the insect control unit, ensuring it is securely latched.
- Restore Power: Plug the Flowtron insect control unit back into the electrical outlet. The new UV bulb should illuminate.
Image 1: Flowtron BF-210 UV Replacement Bulb. This image shows the U-shaped glass tube and the two-pin base connector.
4. Operating Guidelines
Once the BF-210 UV bulb is installed, the insect control unit operates as designed. The bulb emits a specific spectrum of black light that attracts flying insects to the unit. For optimal performance, ensure the unit is placed in an appropriate location away from competing light sources.
The effectiveness of the UV light diminishes over time, even if the bulb still appears to be glowing. Yearly replacement is recommended to maintain maximum luring power and ensure efficient insect control.
5. Maintenance
The primary maintenance for your Flowtron insect control unit, concerning the BF-210 bulb, is its timely replacement.
- Annual Replacement: Replace the BF-210 UV bulb annually, ideally at the beginning of the insect season, to ensure peak performance.
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the exterior of the insect control unit and the bulb housing (when unplugged) to remove dust and insect debris, which can obstruct light output.
6. Troubleshooting
If your Flowtron unit is not illuminating after bulb replacement, consider the following:
- Bulb Not Lighting:
- Ensure the unit is securely plugged into a working electrical outlet.
- Verify the new BF-210 bulb is fully seated in its socket. Gently push it in again.
- Check if the bulb is damaged (e.g., broken glass, loose pins). If so, replace it with a new one.
- Confirm the bulb is the correct model (BF-210) for your Flowtron unit.
- Short Bulb Lifespan:
- While the BF-210 is designed for durability, factors like frequent power surges or extreme temperatures can affect lifespan.
- Ensure the unit is used within its recommended operating environment.
- If multiple bulbs fail prematurely, there might be an issue with the insect control unit itself. Contact Flowtron customer support.
7. Specifications
Image 2: Flowtron BF-210 UV Bulb with approximate dimensions. The bulb measures approximately 5.4 inches (13 cm) in length.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | BF-210 Replacement UV Bulb |
| Brand | Flowtron |
| Light Source Type | UV (Ultraviolet) |
| Wattage | 7 Watts |
| Shape | Tubular (U-tube) |
| Product Dimensions | Approximately 5.25 x 1.19 x 0.5 inches (13.34 x 3.02 x 1.27 cm) |
| Item Weight | 0.64 ounces (18.14 g) |
| Compatibility | Flowtron PV-440, PV-75, PV-440A Insect Control Units |
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information regarding the Flowtron BF-210 Replacement UV Bulb, please refer to the documentation included with your original Flowtron insect control unit or visit the official Flowtron website. Specific warranty terms may vary.
If you require further assistance or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact Flowtron customer support. You can often find contact information on the product packaging or on the Flowtron Brand Store.
