What are Standard Fluorescent Bulb Sizes?
- T5 Fluorescent Tubes. T5 fluorescent tubes are used to light retail stores, schools, office buildings, workspaces, and more because of their illuminating characteristics.
- T8 Fluorescent Tubes. ...
- T12 Fluorescent Tubes. ...
- Circular Fluorescent Tubes. ...
How to measure a fluorescent light bulb?
How to Do a Voltage Test for Fluorescent Fixtures
- Turn off the power to the circuit that powers the fluorescent fixture.
- Remove the fluorescent light bulb from the fixture. The bulb is held in place by tombstones, which also facilitate the transfer of electricity to the bulb.
- Detach the cover that protects the ballast. ...
What is the average length of a fluorescent light bulb?
The smallest fluorescent tube is the T2 and it has a length of between 250mm and 760mm. The next longest tube is the T4, with a total length of anywhere between 150mm and 1,500mm. This is followed by the T5, with a length of between 340mm and 1,800mm.
What lengths do T5 bulbs come in?
The length varies for each size of bulb, standard T8s are available in 2ft, 3ft, 4ft, 5ft and 6ft; standard T12s are available in 2ft, 4ft, 5ft, 6ft and 8ft. Standard T5s are smaller and are available in 6, 9, 12 and 21 inches. How much electricity does a T5 light use?
How to measure fluorescent tube length?
What you need to know:
- Length: Ensure you measure either pin to pin or cap to cap.
- Diameter: Measure the length of a straight line going from one side of the tube to the other.
- Colour Temperature: usually marked with a K rating on your bulb - you won't need this information now. ...
How do I know what size fluorescent bulb I need?
First, you will need the diameter or how wide it is around. This is expressed as a number such as T8 or T12. The “T” stands for tubular, and the number is a measurement of the diameter in 1/8" increments. So a bulb with a 1" diameter would be a T8—eight 1/8" increments.
How do I know if my ballast is T8 or T12?
0:082:11UNDERSTANDING fluorescent lights t5 t8 t12 electronic magnetic ballastYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLike a generation 3 if you compare them side-by-side the t5 is smaller. Here's a t8 and the t12 isMoreLike a generation 3 if you compare them side-by-side the t5 is smaller. Here's a t8 and the t12 is the older version of the t8. You can take a t8. And put it into a t12 fixture the t12 is the oldest.
What is the difference between T8 T10 and T12 fluorescent tubes?
The T8, T10 and T12 tubes are mainly difference in the diameter of the tube. The main difference is in size…the T8 is one inch in diameter and everything else is divisible by that number: T5 = 5/8 inch, T6 = 6/8 inch, T8 = 1 inch, T10 = 1.25 inches (10/8), T12 = 1.5 inches in diameter (12/8).
What are the different lengths of fluorescent lights?
Common tube ratingsTube diameter in 1⁄8 in (3.175 mm)Nominal lengthNominal power (W)T83 ft (914 mm)30T84 ft (1,219 mm)36T85 ft (1,524 mm)58T86 ft (1,829 mm)7013 more rows
Can I replace a T12 bulb with a T8?
The easiest and lowest price option to replace a T12 is a T8 linear fluorescent. They have become the go-to option for pre-existing T12s. If you still have magnetic ballasts, switching to a T8 will require a ballast swap. Another option is to move forward with an LED retrofit.
Can I put a T8 bulb in a T12 fixture?
In terms of physical compatibility, both T8 and T12 lamps use the same G13 bi-pin base, so as long as they are the same length (e.g. 4-ft), a T8 lamp will physically fit inside a T12 fixture.
Can I put LED bulbs in my fluorescent fixtures?
You have fluorescent tube lights in your home or business already, and you're wondering if you can pop LED tubes in these fixtures or if you'll need to change out the fixtures for something designed for LED. Good news! You can use LED tubes in your existing fixtures!
Can I replace T12 with LED?
Can you actually retrofit T12 to LED without changing out the ballast? Actually, yes. But before you make a decision, there are other LED solutions to consider for a high-efficiency lighting option for existing T12s. A lot has changed in just a few years in the lighting industry.
What does the T stand for in fluorescent bulbs?
tubularThe “T” designation in fluorescent lamp nomenclature stands for tubular — the shape of the lamp. The number immediately follow- ing the T gives the diameter of the lamp in eighths of an inch.
What size are old fluorescent tubes?
T12s are 1.5-inch diameter fluorescent tubes. These are the oldest of the fluorescent tubes and they almost always run off magnetic ballasts, which are no longer manufactured. Typically, you see T12s in troffers. Sometimes, you'll find T12s in older warehouses or older hallways in apartment complexes.
How do I know what kind of fluorescent bulb I have?
In order to identify which size you need, the easiest way to tell is to read the label near the base of the tube. If this information is no longer legible, you can measure the bulb's diameter.
What are the three types of regular fluorescent lamp?
Fluorescents are a large family of light sources. There are three main types of fluorescent lamps: cold cathode, hot cathode, and electroluminescent. They all use phosphors excited by electrons to create light.
How do I know what type of ballast I have?
Simply turn the light on, then take a photo of the fixture using your smartphone or digital camera. If there are no dark bands on the resulting image, you have an electronic ballast that will work with direct drop-in LED tubes.
How do I know which ballast?
When purchasing a ballast, you'll need to read the type of lamps it's designed for, how many lamps it operates, and the voltage the lamps will run on. Choosing the right ballast for a lamp will optimize the light output and life of the bulb.
Will T8 LED work with T12 ballast?
In an effort to make LED tube lights compatible with the internal dimensions of most fixtures, you will find that most LED tube lights feature a T8 or 1 inch diameter. They can indeed be used in T12 fixtures.
How do you read a ballast model number?
The most common types are T12, T8, and T5. The T stands for tubular and the number indicates the diameter in 1/8 of an inch. Lamp diameter is determined by ballast type. A fixture with a T12 ballast must use a T12 bulb.
What is the difference between T5 T8 and T12 lights?
In short, the difference between T5, T8, and T12 lights are the sizes and energy efficiency. The smaller T5 and T8 tubes use less energy and have l...
How do I know which fluorescent light bulb to buy?
When considering the question of how do I know which fluorescent light bulb to buy you need to figure out what you currently have. Once you have re...
What are the different types of fluorescent tubes?
What are the different types of fluorescent tubes? There are 3 types: T12 tubes, T8, and T5 tubes, and the T12 which is the oldest and being phased...
How long do fluorescent tubes last?
How long do fluorescent tubes last, well that depends a lot on its wattage, design, and application, But, expect between 7,000 and 15,000 hours. Bu...
How do I know which fluorescent light bulb to buy?
When considering the question of how do I know which fluorescent light bulb to buy you need to figure out what you currently have. Once you have removed the bulb most will be marked with the type on the end, if there are no markings then you can measure the tube diameter to determine their type.
What is the smallest fluorescent bulb?
T4 tubes are the smallest of the fluorescent bulb sizes, at only 4 eighths of an inch (0.5 in). Their size is what makes T4 lights popular for under cabinet lighting purposes and accent lighting for displays or a staircase.
What is the difference between T5 T8 and T12 lights?
In short, the difference between t5, t8, and t12 lights are the sizes and energy efficiency. The smaller t5 and t8 tubes use less energy and have less mercury in them than T12 bulbs.
Why are T12 fluorescent lights still used?
Another reason why they are still used is the cheaper purchasing price compared to the others, but, they are no longer being made. Despite being an older model, the T12 fluorescent tube lights still offer a range of color temperatures at different watts.
What are the different types of fluorescent tubes?
What are the different types of fluorescent tubes? There are 3 types: t12 tubes, t8, and t5 tubes, and the t12 which is the oldest and being phased out and no longer manufactured. The t8 is probably the most used with the t5 being the smallest and most energy-efficient so are often used in large office buildings and warehouses for energy savings.
How many watts does a T4 light bulb use?
There is no industry standard for the length or wattage of T4 tube lights. They can range anywhere from 6 watts to 30 watts, the lower the number the lower the energy consumption, and many lengths. If you are replacing a T4, you may struggle with finding the same fluorescent light bulbs sizes. Be sure to measure the length ...
What is the color rendering index of T5 bulbs?
The CRi of T5 fluorescent bulbs generally range in the lower end of 70 -80 but there are options with more accurate color rendering up to 95.
How many inches between fluorescent lamps?
Occasionally, you’ll come across fluorescent bent lamps with a 1 and 5/8-inch leg spacing. When used in a 2x2 troffer, they will give off a very even, full amount of light.
How big is a fluorescent tube?
Their outside diameter (which is measuring the circle from one end to the other) comes in four options – 6, 8, 12, and 16 inches.
What is a fluorescent bent lamp?
Fluorescent bent lamps come in a few different options. The most common that we see is a fluorescent bent T8 with six-inch leg spacing. As you would expect, the tube is bent in a U-shape. For this reason, they could also be called U-bent fluorescents.
What type of lighting do you use in the office?
You might not realize it, but you interact with fluorescent lighting every day. Whether it’s in the office building or grocery store, fluorescent lamps are probably the most popular type of lighting.
Where are fluorescent lights used?
Widely used – Fluorescents are used in a variety of applications across multiple industries. Hotels, commercial office buildings, grocery stores, healthcare facilities, warehouses, parking garages, and more all use fluorescent lighting.
Do fluorescent lights have the same technology?
All fluor escent lamps use the same technology, but there are several different variations and sizes.
Is the T12 fluorescent tube phased out?
T12s are beginning to phase out , and there are very few 1.5-inch LED tubes on the market. In most instances, a T8 or T5 will work in its place. Shop T12 linear fluorescents.
How many types of fluorescent light bulbs are there?
There are three distinctive types of fluorescent light bulbs. Depending on the type of fixture, the ballast type it has, and the age of your fixture, you’ll be able to find one of these type bulbs more than likely. Though they range in length and width, they all do the same thing: light the room they are in.
What are T5 light bulbs?
T5 bulbs are a smaller version of their big brothers . Measuring only 5/8 inch, these bulbs are space savers but still put out the same amount of light as the larger bulbs. These bulbs are good for lower ceilings and countertops. Add these to your kitchen to give you a balanced lighting scheme of soft light that is sure to please. Being small, the space required to accomplish this lighting task is minimal, and the result is great. People use these above and below cabinets to add a unique look to their kitchen, but kitchens are not their only use. Be creative in using these space-saving light bulbs.
What is a T12 bulb?
T12 Bulbs. T12 bulbs are the oldest type still in use in some fluorescent fixtures. These are bigger, bulkier bulbs and the least expensive to buy, although, they are not the most efficient bulbs. The biggest drawback of these bulbs is that they are warm-weather bulbs. They need temperatures to be 60 F or more to start and operate properly.
What is a ballast in a light fixture?
The ballast is responsible for starting the light fixture and determines the type of bulb required in each fixture. Be sure to do your due diligence before making a selection of light fixture, especially if you need a cold weather-start light fixture. A rapid-start ballast may be the right choice for you.
Is a T5H0 bulb the same as a T5 bulb?
T5H0 bulbs are identical to the T5 bulbs with one exception; they are much brighter. These are high output bulbs are said to be twice as bright as T5 bulbs. They are a great addition to rooms with taller ceilings. When you are in a pinch for space, these fixtures can pound out the light for the space they need.
How many watts does a 4 foot bulb have?
Different lengths are associated with different wattages; for example, 4-foot bulbs were 40-wat ts (at one time). The nominal lengths of T12 and T8 lamps are not measured on the lamp, but the fixture: it is the distance between the inner faces of the lamp holder sockets.
How many connections are needed for an instant start bulb?
two connections at each end pre heat requiring a starter) or rapid start. In an instant start lamp, only one connection is required at each end of the tube. (Some T8 medium bipin lamps can be used with an instant start ballast.
How is brightness measured?
Brightness is measured in lumens. A new fluorescent lamp may not reach maximum brightness for several hours. A lamp's initial lumens rating is measured after the lamp has burned for 100 hours. After an initial steep decline of a few percent, brightness declines slowly.
Why is a T8 lamp smaller than a T12 lamp?
One reason is that the larger T12 lamp gets in the way of its own light, and another that the T8 lamp is probably lower wattage and runs cooler.
What are the different types of ballasts?
There are three main types of ballast: pre-heat, rapid start, and instant start . Electronic ballasts programmed start) In general, each type of ballast corresponds to a type of fluorescent lamp. The type of ballast a lamp needs is related to how it starts. filament. much like the filament in an incandescent bulb.
What is a ballast in a lamp?
The ballast provides the initial surge and then later limits the current. In most of the 20ᵗʰ century, ballasts were black metal boxes in the lamp housing, their insides constructed something like an electrical transformer, of many thin sheets of special steels. Such ballasts are called magnetic ballasts. Unfortunately the sheets move a very small amount as alternating current passes through the ballast. That movement creates a 120-Hz hum. Magnetic ballasts, not the lamps themselves, are the source of the hum formerly associated with fluorescents.
What does "lamp" mean in a lamp?
In these entries, the word “lamp” means a fluorescent light bulb. It does not mean a fixture (the thing with lamp holder sockets).
How do I know which fluorescent light bulb to buy?
You have a few different dimensions to consider when buying a fluorescent light bulb.
How long do fluorescent tubes last?
The lifetime of a fluorescent tube depends on several factors including the type and brand of the fluorescent tube you have, as well as the environment, and how well you look after it.
What are the tube types and sizes used for different applications?
Tubes used for general lighting are called tubular fluorescent lamps and come in four sizes: 2‘, 4‘, 8‘, and 12‘.
What wattage is a T12?
T12 tubes are the most common in the aquarium hobby. These tubes range in wattage from 13W to 20W. The T12 tube’s slim size creates an attractive style, but you must use care in how you use them in your aquarium.
How many watts does a T12 tube have?
These tubes are produced by three major manufacturers in the U.S. These manufacturers produce similar quality tubes but in slightly different thicknesses. Thus, they range in wattage from 13W to 20W. The T12 tube’s slim size creates an attractive style but you must use care in how you use them in your aquarium.
What is a T4 fluorescent light?
T4 Fluorescent Lights. The T4 fluorescent tube is also known as a “mini-tubular.”. As the name suggest, mini-tubulars are indeed smaller than regular (34") tubes and are ideal for low-light plant species. By comparison, the T5 fluorescent tube is usually 2.5 to 3 times larger than a T4 fluorescent tube.
Which is better, fluorescent or fluorescent?
They’re better for illuminating large, dark areas. Fluorescent tubes (also known as T5 bulbs) are a very flexible type of fluorescent and are ideal in commercial settings (in high-ceilinged buildings, long corridors, etc.) They are more expensive than the other types of tubes, but they are very efficient.
Light Bulb Size Chart and Series
We need to understand that the light bulb series shows the shape and there is a number code that shows the light bulb diameter in 1/8th inch and millimeters (mm). The type of bulb is the determinant. Our size charts will be organized via a variety of sizes, bases, type of light, and intended use.
Light Bulb Size Chart
They can be called Standard bulbs, general lamp service (GLS), or arbitrary and the typical use is at home. The A-Series bulbs are used as kitchen lamps, porch lamps, ceiling lamps, floor and table lamps, and reading lamps.
Conclusion on light bulb size charts
As a matter of fact, having an illuminating bulb in your living room could be fun and aesthetic. There are different types of lighting as we have discussed in this light bulbs size chart guide. You will discover that different lightings or bulbs serve different purposes and comes along in different shapes and sizes.
What is a fluorescent bulb?
Fluorescent lamps (or "bulbs" in normal-speak) are classed by shape, diameter, length, wattage, and often special properties and color temperature. In T numbers like Tn or T5, T8, etc. "T" indicates tubular lamp shape. The fluorescent bulb's T-number in essence gives the bulb diameter and its connecting pin design.
How is the color temperature of fluorescent lamps adjusted?
The color temperature of fluorescent lamps is adjusted by the manufacturer by changing the chemistry of the phosphorescent coating lining the inside of the lamp tube.
What type of connector is used for T12 bulbs?
Above: a T12 LED replacement bulb for T12 fluorescents using a type R17D base connector.
What size bulb is a T5 bulb?
Some of bulb specifications below are redundant: for example if you know that it's a T5 bulb you know that it is a 5/8" (15.8mm) diameter lamp with a G5 bi-pin connector.
What does it mean to keep the original bulb?
Keeping the original bulb package (or writing down what type of bulb was installed) means that even if you have the bad luck to break a bulb and your client throws away your carefully-kept bulb base, you can still identify the proper replacement lamp.
What is the whitest light?
Fluorescent lamps rated as "artificial daylight" have color temperatures of 5,000 o K or 7,500 o K. 6500K (such as Philips 800-series fluorescent lamps) is considered Whitest light. Some sources rate this as "overcast light" 2 - good for reading. Please see details at BULB COLOR TEMPERATURE COMPRARISONS.
What is soft white light?
Soft White - a warm full glow light ideal "lifestyle" light. Color corrected fluorescent bulbs operate at about 3600 o K and skin tones look somewhat normal under these lights.
