What are the different types of fluorescent tube bulbs?
what are the different types of fluorescent tubes? The two most common types are 40-watt, 4-foot (1.2-meter) lamps, and 75-watt, 8-foot (2.4-meter) lamps.Now, tubular fluorescent technology has improved. New products such as T8 and T5 are much more energy efficiency than T12 (T12 – 57 lumens/watt; T8 – 92 lumens/watt; T5 – 103 lumens/watt).
What are the different fluorescent bulb sizes?
a fluorescent lamp 1 inch in diameter (eight eighths) is a T8. Sizes range from T2 to T17. A 5-watt, 25-watt, or 300-watt incandescent bulb can be screwed into an Edison socket and they will all work as they are supposed to. One socket; any wattage. That is not true of fluorescent lamps, because the lamp must match the
Why are fluorescent light bulbs dangerous?
Mercury is found in small amounts in fluorescent light bulbs. The mercury can be released if the bulbs are broken. Some people can be poisoned by mercury. People are encouraged to replace their old fashioned incandescent bulbs with the newer, more energy efficient ones.
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.
Are all fluorescent tubes the same?
All fluorescent lamps use the same technology, but there are several different variations and sizes.
How do I know which fluorescent tube I need?
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. Fluorescent tubes are measured in eighths of an inch.
Which is better T8 or T5?
Price Gap. T5 bulbs tend to be two to three times more expensive than T8 bulbs — making cost an important consideration. However, T5 lamps produce just as much (or more) light in a smaller area as the T8 while using significantly fewer bulbs. This means more T8 fixtures are needed to produce the same amount of light.
What is the difference between T8 and T12 fluorescent tubes?
T12 vs T8 Fluorescent Tubes The main difference between T8 and T12 tubes is the tube's diameter. T12 tubes are 1.5" in diameter while T8s are just one inch. All other things—socket sizes, lengths, distance between pins—are the same.
Are T8 and T12 tubes interchangeable?
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.
What are the 3 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 if I have a T8 or T12 ballast?
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.
Are T8 bulbs being discontinued?
The Ecodesign Regulation set a schedule to eliminate integrally-ballasted compact fluorescent (CFLi) and T12 linear fluorescent (LFL) lamps in September 2021, and most T8 LFLs in September 2023.
Can I put a T5 bulb in a T8 fixture?
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].
Whats brighter T8 or T12?
The Standard T12 lamp produces 2,650 initial lumens per lamp. The standard T8 produces 2,800 initial lumens per lamp, 6% brighter. But the standard T12 lamp produces 2,300 design lumens and the T8 produces 2,660 design lumens.
Is T8 or T12 better?
The main difference between T8 and T12 bulbs is that T8 bulbs have a diameter of 1.5 inches, whereas T12 bulbs have a diameter of 1 inch. T8 bulbs are a better choice than T 12 bulbs. This can be easily proved. T8 bulbs have a better color rendering index as well as high efficacy.
Can I replace a T12 fluorescent light tube with an LED tube?
These LED tubes are the newest, easiest to install and most expensive. They work with any kind of existing technology – whether it is T12 (Magnetic Ballast) or T8 (Electronic Ballast). To install them all you need to do is take the old fluorescent tube out and install the LED tube in its place.
How do I know the size of my tube light?
0:002:03How To Measure Fluorescent Tubes - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFluorescent tubes come in variety of size diameters t45 t a t9 t10. And t12 this is a t5.MoreFluorescent tubes come in variety of size diameters t45 t a t9 t10. And t12 this is a t5.
What is the difference between T4 and T8 lights?
The main difference is the diameter of each tube.
Can you replace fluorescent tubes with LED tubes?
Yes, you can replace fluorescent tubes with LED tubes or LED-integrated fixtures. If you just want to replace the bulbs, you can use plug-and-play, direct-wire, or hybrid LED tubes. Plug-and-play tubes are the easiest to install as they do not require any rewiring to the fixture.
What is a T12 fluorescent tube?
The T12 is an older generation fluorescent bulb that generates light through electromagnetic induction, which is considered less efficient method of creating light compared to that of newer electronic based circuits.
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 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 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. But we have seen claims that the T5 can last up to 50.000 hours, but they are the newest on the block.
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.
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 ...
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.
Which is better T12 or T8?
T8 bulbs are more expensive than T12 bulbs but will start much faster. They are excellent at starting at all temperatures, including temperatures below freezing. The starting temperature is set by the type ballast you have installed in the fixture that you buy. The ballast is responsible for starting the light fixture and determines the type ...
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Why are fluorescent tubes used?
Because of the high levels of light generated, these fluorescent tubes are used for a wide range of home and commercial applications.
What is a T5 fluorescent tube?
T5 fluorescent tubes are used to light retail stores, schools, office buildings, workspaces, and more because of their illuminating characteristics. They are cost-effective thanks to low energy consumption and the 30,000 hours lifespan.
What are Standard Fluorescent Bulb Sizes?
When you search for fluorescent lamps, you’ll find a few types on offer more than others. Here are the most common light bulbs you can find.
How Do I Know if My Ballast is T8 or T12?
Fluorescent lamps or fluorescent tubes are often T8 and T12. Magnetic ballasts were first used with T12 lamps, yet can be used with electronic ballasts, lighter than traditional ballasts, and produce less noticeable light flicker. Electronic ballasts designed specifically for T8 lamps are used in all of them. The choice between T8 and T12 lamps is based on your intended purpose or application. (Find the Best Battery Operated Lights)
How long do fluorescent lights last?
You’ll find that these bulbs have a long life span, ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 hours.
How big is a T8 bulb?
On the most basic level, the T12 and the T8 bulbs have different diameter tubes where the T12 is 1.5 inches in diameter, and the T8 is 1 inch in diameter.
When were T12 bulbs first introduced?
T12 bulbs are the earliest incarnation and were released before halogen lights made an appearance. The T12 light bulbs were introduced in the 40s and a considerable improvement. It was some 40 years later, in the mid-80s, when T8 lamp technology took off and soon set the trend as the new standard of energy efficiency, and prompting people to switch to these new types of lighting.
What is the difference between LED and fluorescent lights?
What is the difference between LED and Fluorescent lighting? Both LED and Fluorescent fixtures provide a very flexible lighting options that have a large number of different applications. Because of their great range of light-spread, they are both very common options in warehouses, outdoor, and general room lighting.
When were fluorescent lamps invented?
Fluorescent. Fluorescent lamps were first experimented with in the middle of the 1800’s. The device is typically a tube that has a mercury vapor and a phosphor coating on the inside of it. When an electric current passes through the tube, it excites the mercury vapor which causes it to emit ultra-violet light.
What is LED light?
First developed in 1962, an LED, or “light-emitting diode,” is a semiconductor (a material that has properties of both electrically conductive and insulative material) that will emit light when a particular voltage of current passes through it. Without going into the specifics, when the diode is activated with electricity, it gives off photons which produce light. These LEDs can emit a broad spectrum of light colors depending on the composition of the material used in the semiconductor. Although they emit light, a light-emitting diode will not produce a significant amount of heat. These diodes are typically small in nature while emitting a great source of light.
How many lumens does an LED light have?
Run of the mill source proficiency ranges 37 and 120 lumens/watt. Most values for LED system productivity fall over 50 lume ns/watt.
Do LEDs emit heat?
Although they emit light, a light-emitting diode will not produce a significant amount of heat. These diodes are typically small in nature while emitting a great source of light.
Do LED lights have directional light?
Overall, both LED and Fluorescent light sources provide different advantages and disadvantages depending on how you look at them. Looking even further into these differences, fluorescent lights spread their beams in all directions, meaning the light is not focusing in any general direction. This can cause you to need more of them to light the same space (if they’re located in your ceiling). LEDs emit a directional light source, allowing you a little more accuracy with the area being illuminated, wasting less light and energy.
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.
