Are T8 LED Bulb Replacements Worth the Investment?

Have your traditional fluorescent lighting fixtures become a drain to your resources? It’s a problem for many other homeowners and businesses alike. Therefore, the need for a sustainable lighting solution is undeniable.

We’ll uncover the facts about T8 LED replacement tubes to help you decide if they are worth the investment.

Traditional fluorescent lamps waste energy and can negatively impact the environment. These lights work by transmitting an electric charge through a fluorescent tube filled with mercury vapor. This creates UV light that makes the coating inside the tube glow.

However, this process consumes significant amounts of energy. It also requires the use of mercury, which is a notorious environmental pollutant. When it comes to disposing of the bulbs, mercury also poses risks.

In recent years, there has been a demand for quality LED replacement products. One of the major developments is the need to phase out outdated T12 ballast technology.

Instead of relying on mercury, T8 LEDs use the method of passing electrons through a semiconductor to produce light. This approach considerably reduces heat output which provides an additional safety factor.

Among the range of LED tubes, t8 ballast replacements are an efficient solution. These tubes run directly off the line voltage by removing the ballast from the equation altogether. However, to install these tubes, your current tombstone must be replaced with a non-shunted rapid start version. This must be done by a licensed professional.

When transitioning to T8 LED tubes, understanding their sizes is important. The quickest way to identify the size is to read the label located on the end of the tube. If the label is missing or unreadable, you can also measure the diameter of the tube.

The ‘T’ in T8 stands for tubular shape, and the number signifies the diameter in eighths of an inch:

• A T8 tube has a 1-inch diameter
• A T5 has a 5/8-inch diameter
• A T12 has a 1.5-inch diameter

Notably, T8 and T12 tubes share the same bi-pin base, allowing them to be used interchangeably in the same fixture. Keep in mind that using a T12 tube in a T8 ballast could cause it to break easily because they're incompatible.

If T8 tubes are used in T12 ballasts, they may burn out faster because of the T12 ballast's higher voltage output. Remember to verify the milliamp requirements for the ballast before swapping them out.

When replacing your fluorescent tubes, there are several options at your disposal:

Direct Wire or Ballast Bypass LED Tube:

This is the oldest and least expensive method for replacing your fluorescent tubes. However, it is important to note that this option requires the ballast to be bypassed so that it runs directly off the line voltage. This could lead to potential safety hazards.

If you choose this method, safety organizations like UL thankfully have set safe installation standards. For most LED tubes, the line voltage must be installed on one end.

Non-Shunted Rapid Start LED Tube:

Non-Shunted Rapid start LED tubes require a specific socket type. The key to a successful conversion lies in changing the input side sockets from T8 to T12. T8 sockets can't be safely installed due to their circular conductor which doesn't allow for needed line separation.

Since the process can be complex, it's advised to hire a professional electrician for the task.

Plug & Play Or T8 Ballast Compatible Tubes:

Electronic ballast compatible tubes are another option available for replacing fluorescent tube lights. What sets these tubes apart is their compatibility with electronic ballast installations.

Their installation is straightforward and similar to universal tube technology. Many manufacturers have also provided lists of compatible ballasts for their LED tubes. This ensures you have the right pairing for optimal performance.

While these tubes are a promising solution, there are a few disadvantages worth considering:

• The upfront cost may be higher.
• f the ballast fails, the LED tube may not light

Hybrid LED Tubes

In response to the complex landscape of lighting solutions, manufacturers have introduced hybrid LED tubes. These lights are designed to work with both electronic and magnetic ballasts to satisfy a range of installation needs. For areas with a mix of T12 and T8 wiring, hybrid LED tubes offer a seamless installation process.

Hybrid LED tubes can easily bypass a failed light ballast easily. Their compatibility and ease of installation make them attractive to smaller facilities or homeowners who prioritize minimal downtime during installation.

Type C External Drive

This method requires replacing a fluorescent ballast with a remote driver that powers the ends of the LED tubes. Among all the options available, the Type C driver installation stands out for its prolonged lifespan. However, this option does involve removing the entire ballast, which can be pricey.

At HomElectrical, we are proud to offer a diverse range of T8 LED conversions, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your unique needs. So, make the smart choice today. View our catalog and let us guide you through a seamless transition to T8 tubes.