
What is the difference between a T5 and a T8 flourescent bulb?
Difference Between T5 and T8 Fluorescent Light Bulbs T5 and T8 fluorescent tubes are often used for ambient lighting in commercial areas such as offices. T5 fluorescent light bulb is a newer technology than T8. T5 fluorescent light bulb has an efficiency of about 100 lm/W . T8 fluorescent light bulb can reach about 90 lm/W luminous efficacy.
What is the T in a T5 fluorescent lamp mean?
What does T5 mean? The "T" in lamp nomenclature represents the shape of the lamp-tubular. The number following the "T" usually represents the diameter of the lamp in eighths of an inch (1 inch equals 2.5 centimeters). T5 lamps have a diameter equal to 5 times an eighth of an inch, or 5/8".
What does T5 mean for light bulbs?
Fluorescent bulb widths are measured in eighths of an inch. For example, a T5 bulb is five-eighths of an inch wide, a T8 bulb is 1 inch wide or eight-eights wide and a T12 is 1-1/2 inches or 12/8ths in diameter. Since their conception in the 1930s, fluorescent T12 bulbs were the choice of building contractors.
What is T5, T8 and T12 lighting?
The only difference between T5, T8 and T12 bulbs is the tube diameter. A T5 bulb is 5/8ths of an inch in diameter, a T8 lamp is exactly one inch in diameter (8/8ths) and a T12 tube is 12/8ths, or one and a half inches thick. How do I know what size fluorescent tube I need?

What is the difference between an LED and a T5 fluorescent bulb?
LED fixtures are also mercury-free, making them less of an environmental pollutant when disposed of than T5 lamps. LEDs also offer increased light efficiency when dimmed as opposed to T5 fixtures and usually produce more lumens per watt in general, which decreases energy usage and thus, energy costs.
What does T5 mean on a fluorescent tube?
Fluorescent lamps, or fluorescent linear tubes as they are also known, are categorized according to their wattage, shape and diameter. The "T" in T5 indicates the bulb is tubular shaped, while the "5" denotes that it is five eighths of an inch in diameter.
Can I replace T5 fluorescent with LED?
Plug and Play, or direct wire, LED T5 lamps make switching from fluorescent to LED simple. These bulbs are easy and quick to install. Replacing the ballast in your current fixture won't be necessary, as it plugs directly into the fixture without any rewiring.
Which is better T5 or T8?
Bulb Quality & Intensity The T5 has a better lumen-to-watt ratio than the T8, implying that its output is more efficient and brighter per watt of energy used.
Can I replace a T5 bulb with a T8?
T5 lamps cannot replace T12 or T8 lamps because of differences in physical and electrical characteristics. T5 lamps come in different lengths than T8 and T12 lamps. A nominal 4-foot T5 lamp is actually shorter than an equivalent T8 lamp [1149 millimeters (45.23 inches) in total].
Do you need a ballast for a T5?
T5 lamps need special ballasts to operate. In most cases, the T5 ballasts will not work with T12 or T8 lamps, although at least one manufacturer offers electronic ballasts that can operate either T5 or T8 lamps with appropriate wiring.
Are T5 lights being phased out?
T5's will be phased out when a newer technology makes them no longer saleable or profitable. There are no (US, at least) government regulations driving their demise. T8's are still readily available, and I expect that they will also remain so for quite some time.
How do I convert my T5 lights to LED?
0:082:45T5 LED Conversion - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clip- it's a Direct Fit. So you don't have to do any wiring you basically just pull the old fluorescentMore- it's a Direct Fit. So you don't have to do any wiring you basically just pull the old fluorescent tubes out put the new LED in and you should get pretty similar brightness.
Do T5 bulbs come in LED?
T5 LED tubes are available for plug-and-play, ballast bypass, or hybrid operation.
What's brighter T5 or T8?
If you want to high bright led tube lights, you can first choose T8 led tube. because the T8 tube light is high brighter than t5 tube. T5 led tube light, which is less filled with electrons and inert gas. In contrast, If you want to creat a darker lighting environment.
Where do you usually use a T5 fluorescent?
T5 luminaires are usually used in new construction projects. Because T5 lamps have smaller diameters, shorter lengths, and higher luminances than T8 and T12 lamps, they are more suitable for indirect lighting, direct/indirect lighting, direct lighting for high-bay applications, and wall-washing applications.
Are LED lights better than T5?
The main advantage of LED over T5 lights is that it is more efficient, which will save cost (bulbs & power) in the long run.
Which is brighter T5 or T8?
If you want to high bright led tube lights, you can first choose T8 led tube. because the T8 tube light is high brighter than t5 tube. T5 led tube light, which is less filled with electrons and inert gas. In contrast, If you want to creat a darker lighting environment.
What is the difference between T5 and T8 LED tube?
0:252:05The Differences Between T5 and T8 Fluorescent Light Bulbs/TubesYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo we start with a t5 tube as you can see it's really quite slim in diameter it's 60 millimeters andMoreSo we start with a t5 tube as you can see it's really quite slim in diameter it's 60 millimeters and the pins at the very end here are really close together there's a five millimeter gap there between
What is the difference between T5 and T12?
Size. T5 tubes are smaller than T8 and T12 tubes, which allow them to fit into smaller spaces. They are offered in sizes of 2-5 feet in length. T5 lamps are around 40% smaller than T8 lamps and almost 60% smaller than T12 lamps.
What size is a T5 fluorescent tube?
15mm diameterT5 (15mm diameter) Fluorescent Tubes.
What Does T5 Lighting Mean?
T5 lighting refers to a type of fluorescent light that uses T5 lamps. It is commonly used in offices, indoor gardens, and retail settings. T5 light...
Which Is Better, Led or T5?
There are many differences between Light-emitting diode and T5 lighting, including upfront cost, energy efficiency, emissions, and life expectancy....
Do T5 Lights Use a Lot of Electricity?
T5 lights are available in a variety of sizes and wattages. The size of the light will determine the amount of light produced, and the wattage will...
What’s the Difference Between T8 and T5 Lights?
T8 lights are more energy-efficient than T5 lights, but they also cost more. In addition, T5 emit brighter light, making them better suited for tas...
What Are T5 Grow Lights?
A T5 grow light is fluorescent grow light that uses smaller diameter tubes than traditional T8 or T12 lights. As a result, these lights are more en...
What Are the Benefits of Using a T5 Grow Light?
There are several benefits to using a T5 grow light over other types of grow lights. T5 lights are more energy-efficient, produce less heat, and ca...
Which Is the Best T5 Grow Light?
There are a few different T5 grow lights available on the market. The most common type is the linear T5 light, which is available in various length...
Is There a Fluorescent Light Bulb?
Yes, there are fluorescent lighting bulbs. These light bulbs are known for being energy-efficient and emitting less heat. They are often used in gr...
What Are the Differences Between T5, T8, andT12 Lamps?
T5, T8, and T12 lamps are all types of fluorescent lamps. However, they differ in their diameters and the amount of visible light they emit. T5 lam...
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...
What is a T5 lamp?
What are T5 lamps? T5 lamps are fluorescent lamps that are 5/8" of an inch in diameter. This report discusses only linear T5 lamps. Differences in length and socket pin design versus conventional fluorescent lamps prevent any problems with electric circuits or human factors.
How big is a T5 lamp?
T5 lamps have a diameter equal to 5 times an eighth of an inch, or 5/8". These lamps are approximately 40% smaller than T8 lamps, which are one inch in diameter, and almost 60% smaller than T12 lamps, which are 1½" in diameter. Figure 1 shows diagrams of lamp ends of T5, T8, and T12 lamps.
Can a T5 be used as a replacement for a T8?
T5 lamps are slightly shorter than T8 lamps and therefore cannot be used as replacements for the larger lamps. Some luminaires, however, can be made to accept either T5 or T8 lamps by changing the sockets and ballasts. Table 1-1 compares lengths of T5 lamps with T8 and T12 lamps.
How long do T5 LED lights last?
However, this is still less than half of the expected lifespan of a T5 LED tube light which lasts an average of 50,000 hours.
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.
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.
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 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 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 type of ballast do I need for a T5 fluorescent tube?
Like T8s, T5s can uses electronic ballasts of electromagnetic ballasts. You will need a ballast specific to the size of T5 tubes though. Find out about electronic ballasts and electromagnetic ballasts on our T8 FAQs page.
How do I know I need a T5?
If you want to save money on your electricity bills and the lights aren’t going to be used in extreme environments then T5s may suit you best. If you have previously used T8s or T12s you will have to upgrade your ballasts however as the smaller size requires a different fitting. If you’re considering moving from T12 to T8 it might be worth your while to take the bigger jump and just go straight to T5 to realise much greater efficiency.
What is a T5 and how is it different from a T12 or T8?
A T5 is a type of fluorescent tube. It differs from a T12 and a T8 in its diameter. All T5s are 5/8ths of an inch (T8s are exactly 1inch thick and T12s are 12/8ths or 1.5 inches thick). T5s are 16mm in diameter making them the thinnest fluorescent tube out of the three.
How easy is it to upgrade my lights from T12 or T8 to T5?
If you want to upgrade your bulbs to T5s you will have to install new ballasts or use an adaptor as T5s are a bit shorter than the alternatives and also have a mini-pin base.
Are T5 tubes dimmable?
As with any fluorescent tubes, T5 tubes can be dimmed so long as they have a dimmable ballast installed, which provides the control to dim the lights.
Do T5 tubes need starters?
You shouldn’t need a starter for modern fluorescent tubes like T5s – the control gear that runs them are high-frequency and do not require external starters.
Do you have to upgrade ballasts from T8 to T12?
If you have previously used T8s or T 12s you will have to upgrade your ballasts however as the smaller size requires a different fitting. If you’re considering moving from T12 to T8 it might be worth your while to take the bigger jump and just go straight to T5 to realise much greater efficiency.
How long do T5 lamps last?
Standard T5 and T5 HO lamps have a rated average lamp life of 20,000 hours, the same as most standard T8 and T12 lamps. New prolonged-life T8 and T12 lamps have lives of 4,000 to 10,000 hours longer than T5 lamps. (Table 1-3 excludes these lamps.)
How many watts does a T5 HO lamp have?
T5 lamps are available for standard output and high output. The wattages for standard T5 lamps are 14, 21, 28, and 35 watts . The high-output T5 (T5 HO) lamps are available in 24, 39, 54, and 80 watts (49-watt T5 HO lamps are also available from GE Lighting). Table 1-2 summarizes the features of the standard T5 and T5 HO lamps available in the United States. A four-foot long, 54-watt version that delivers 5,000 lumens is popular in the United States. The high light output allows fewer luminaires to achieve the same illuminance levels as when using other fluorescent lamps. As Table 1-2 shows, however, T5 HO lamps are slightly less efficacious than standard T5 lamps.
What is a T5 bulb?
T5 Type. The T5 fluorescent bulb is only similar to the the T8 in that it uses an electronic ballast. However the cost of T5 bulbs, especially high output types, is significantly higher than T8 and T12 bulbs. T5 bulbs are also shorter and do not fit standard fixtures.
How long do T8 fluorescent lights last?
They do however last up to 50,000 hours, use less power, operate without a ballast and do not contain hazardous mercury that fluorescent bulbs use. Like any new product, cost reduction will depend on improved technology and consumer demand. Advertisement. references. Lighting Research Center: T8 fluorescent lamps.
How to tell if fluorescent light is a tube or a bulb?
The letter T is used in front of the number to show that the fluorescent light is a tube and not a bulb like traditional lights are. Following the letter is a number representing the diameter of the bulb measured in fractions of an inch. Fluorescent bulb widths are measured in eighths of an inch. For example, a T5 bulb is five-eighths of an inch wide, a T8 bulb is 1 inch wide or eight-eights wide and a T12 is 1-1/2 inches or 12/8ths in diameter.
Why are fluorescent bulbs so popular?
Compared with incandescent lights, fluorescent bulbs are relatively inexpensive, longer lasting and use less energy. For these reasons, fluorescent tubes are now widespread. They're currently used in industrial, commercial and public facilities.
How wide is a T8 bulb?
Fluorescent bulb widths are measured in eighths of an inch. For example, a T5 bulb is five-eighths of an inch wide, a T8 bulb is 1 inch wide or eight-eights wide and a T12 is 1-1/2 inches or 12/8ths in diameter.
What are the different types of fluorescent lights?
Image Credit: AstridSinai/iStock/GettyImages. There are several types of fluorescent lights. The most common straight tube types are T5, T8 and T12, available in lengths up to eight feet. All fluorescent bulbs require a ballast to operate, while older models require a starter as well. Advertisement.
When did T8 bulbs come out?
T8 Type. Fluorescent T8 bulbs have continued growing in popularity since they were brought to the United States in 1981 and have now become the standard in building construction. The T8 bulb's lifetime can exceed that of the T12, while using less energy.
What is a T5 light bulb?
Fluorescent T5 light bulbs or lamps are some of today's most popular fluorescent lighting options, along with T8 lamps. With a diameter of just 5/8", T5 lamps provide a great deal of light for the energy used, and they have a long life span.
Can T8s use the same sockets as T12?
When replacing T12 lamps, T8s can use the same lamp sockets , though they'll need new ballasts. T5 lamps use different sockets and ballasts. Both can be useful. T5 light bulbs become especially useful in high bay settings. This is where their high output lighting can really make a difference.
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.
What is a T5 aquarium?
Larger aquariums tend to need more illumination than smaller aquariums. T5 are also known as “full-size” or “long-tubed” fluorescent tubes. They are available in lengths of 18, 24, 30, 36, 39, 40, 48, and 55 inches. If you use a T5 or T8 tube, you will need a fluorescent fixture designed for a 5 or 8 based ballast.
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‘.
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 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.
