Can LED tubes replace fluorescent tubes, and can I convert a fluorescent fixture to an LED fixture?
Yes, fluorescent tubes can be replaced with LED tubes or LED-integrated fixtures. Our tubes are one side powered only so the existing fixture must be rewired.
Plug-and-play LED tubes are the simplest to install because they do not need to be rewired to the fixture. If the LED tubes are compatible with the fixture’s existing fluorescent ballast, simply replace the fluorescent tube with the LED tube. However, the ballast will continue to draw power and may fail.
Direct-wire LED tubes can also replace fluorescents, but they must be rewired to bypass the ballast and replace sockets with non-shunted lamp holders. While this conversion requires a little more effort up front, using direct-wire LED tubes eliminates the ballast as a failure point and reduces overall energy consumption.
What is the lifespan of an LED tube?
LED tubes have a lifespan of 50 000 hours, which is twice that of fluorescent tubes. For example, an LED tube with a 50 000 hours rated life will last more than 11 years if used 12 hours a day. However, some LED tube lights have a lifespan of 70 000 hours or more.
What is the difference between T5, T8, and T12 lighting?
The main distinction is the size. The number following “T” represents the diameter in eighths of an inch (5/8 inch, 1 inch, and 1-1/2 inch). Lamp efficiency and lamp life are two other differences. T8 lamps are a more durable and energy-efficient replacement for T12 lamps of the same wattage. Both types of lighting are commonly used in general lighting applications like offices and warehouses. On the other hand, T5 lamps frequently necessitate the use of specialised T5 fixtures.
As a result, T5s are less commonly used in general lighting and are more widely found in under-cabinet lighting, grow lights, and other speciality applications.
Is a ballast required for T8 LED bulbs?
Most T8 LED tubes do not require a ballast. Plug-and-play LED tubes are the only ones that require a ballast as they are direct replacements for fluorescent tubes that install without fixture rewiring and run on the existing fluorescent ballast. Although hybrid LED tubes can be used with a ballast, it is not required. Some LED tubes are incompatible with ballasts. Before installing direct-wire or ballast-bypass LED tubes, the ballast must be removed.
Are LEDs more energy efficient than fluorescent bulbs?
LED tube lights use significantly less energy than fluorescent tubes. In addition, LED tubes have a longer lifespan, saving maintenance and replacement money.
How long do T8 ballasts last?
Fluorescent T8 ballasts have a lifespan of five to 20 years. Still, environmental factors like temperature, the number of hours the fixture is turned on, and bad bulbs can drastically reduce the lifespan.
What are high output LED bulbs?
High-output LED tubes, which are double-ended direct-wire tubes, replace high-output fluorescent lamps. These LED tubes, which have a recessed double-contact (R17d) base, work with the existing sockets after the ballast has been removed and the fixture rewired.
Colour temperatures for high-output bulbs range from a warmer 3 000 kelvin to a stark white 5 000 kelvin. These high-output LED tubes have the same base diameters as standard bulbs but emit a much brighter lumen output, allowing you to use fewer fixtures to light an area.
What LED lights do you have?
You can browse our comprehensive range of LED lighting here.
Contact Krelum Lighting for more information
LED tubes are energy-efficient, long-lasting, low maintenance and cost-effective. Krelum Lighting is a one-stop shop for all your lighting needs, including LED tubes. Contact us for more information about the right lighting solution for your needs.