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Replacing T5 and T8 fluorescent tubes with LED ones fixed headings

Replacing T8 Fluorescent Tubes with LED Ones Introduction


These LED tubes are designed to replace traditional fluorescent tubes, and they use less energy and produce less heat. LED replacement tubes are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs.

However, it is essential to understand the difference between different T8 LED tube types before making a decision, as some may not be compatible with your current fixtures. In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about T8 LED replacement tubes so that you can make an informed decision.


Can LEDs be used Instead of Fluorescent Lights?


If you're not sure which type of LED tube light you need, you can measure the diameter and/or distance between pins to be certain. T8 LED tubes have a diameter of 1 inch, while T5 LED tubes have a diameter of 5/8 inch. Additionally, T8 LED tubes have a distance of 13mm between pins, while T5 LED tubes have a distance of 5 mm between pins.


If you have an older model fixture, it might not be compatible with LED replacement tubes. In this case, you'll need to purchase a new LED-compatible fixture or retrofit your existing fixture to work with LEDs.


Type A T8 LED Tube


Type A LED Tubes are the most common type of LED replacement tube on the market. They're designed to work with existing T8 ballast and don't require any rewiring.


If you're looking for an easy-to-install option, Type A LED Tubes are a great choice. Just Simply remove the old fluorescent T8 tube and  install the new LED tube into the socket. However, there can be certain disadvantages to using Type A LED Tubes.


For example, because they're designed to work with ballasts, they might not be as energy-efficient as other types of LED tubes. Additionally, you may need to replace the existing ballast with a new one to avoid compatibility issues. However, this will increase the cost associated with fluorescent tube replacement.


Type B T8 LED Tube


Type B LED Tubes are another popular option and don't require any rewiring. However, they aren't compatible with ballasts and must be rewired to bypass them.


If you're comfortable doing a bit of electrical work, Type B LED Tubes are a great choice. Simply cut the wires leading to the ballast and connect them to the ends of the LED tube.


It is recommended to ask a professional electrician to do this for you to avoid any potential hazards.


Type B T8 LED tubes have several advantages. For example, they don't require a ballast, so they're more energy-efficient. Additionally, Type B T8 LED tubes often have a longer lifespan than other types of LED tubes.


Type C T8 LED Tube​


This Type is similar to Type B but with a slight difference: Type B tubes have an internal driver, while type C has an external one.


Type C T8 LED tubes must be rewired to bypass the ballast, similar to Type B tubes. However, they have a few distinct advantages.


Thanks to their high functionality, they can be widely used. Additionally, they offer greater energy efficiency as they can be used with automatic motion sensors and dimmers.


If you're looking for a versatile and energy-efficient option, Type C T8 LED tubes are a great choice. However, they do require a bit of electrical work to install.


Type D or Type AB LED Tube


This is a relatively new type of T8 LED tube that is compatible with both ballast and non-ballast fixtures.


Type D or Type AB LED tubes are a great option if you want the flexibility to use them in either type of fixture. Some of these tubes are single-end wired, while others are double-end wired.


Which T8 LED Fluorescent Light (tube) Replacement should I Choose?


The best T8 LED tube for you depends on your specific needs and application. Consider the type of fixture you have, whether you want to rewire it, and your budget. You should also consider a color temperature that will create the desired ambiance in your space.


If you're not sure which type of LED tube is best for you, consult with a professional electrician or lighting specialist. They can help you choose the right product and ensure it's installed correctly.


Conclusion


When choosing LED replacement tubes, consider the type of fixture you have, whether you need to rewire it, and your budget.  Updating your fluorescent lighting fixtures with T8 LED tubes is  a great way to improve the efficiency of your lighting system and reduce your energy costs.

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