yeah i would replace the ballast (after it failed) with a ballast that has anti arcing protection, such as programmed start sylvania and high ballast factor because the cold temps

why are the tube protecters look to be part of the socket? Are they?

I believe you put the lamp in the sleeve and the tube protector end goes on the lamp in the tube, then slide in the lightbulb and socket end assembly into to the socket, which explains the sockets are push ins instead of insert and turn....

Felipe, are you trying to make your employer look bad...hmmmm

ahh i see. i thought that different socket was a replacement. odd how they don't match the ends on the fixture to the left.

Aw crap! Accidentally deleted my comment. My big fat thumb on the TINY buttons... Using my iPhone.

i deleted mine too so I don't look crazy.

If you look carefully on the sides of the socket on the left...you'll see a notch on the side....it fits the groove on the one on the right, so it is an apparent that the protective ends slides into the sockets