LED Tube Lights

With more facilities and offices becoming environmentally conscious and LED lighting technology rapidly evolving to meet the demands of modern consumers, swapping out fluorescent fixtures with LED tube lights is easier than ever. Designed to replace less efficient fluorescent tubes, LEDs utilize less energy while still producing similar bright light with better coloring and temperature control. They also last significantly longer, burn out less frequently, contain zero mercury and often require less maintenance.

At LEDtronics, we pride ourselves on offering a wide selection of LED tube lights suitable for installations including hallways, production areas, office complexes and cubicles, emergency lighting, retail displays, under-cabinet lighting and task lighting.

Types of LED Tube Lights

The best solution for updating fluorescent fixtures is by swapping them out with an LED tube light. To accommodate a range of different uses from accent lighting to illuminating office complexes, manufacturers have developed several different types of LED tube lights available in various sizes and styles.

• T5 LED Tube Lights:A T5 tube light measures 5/8 of an inch in diameter, with the most common models measuring at 4 feet long. A T5 tube light can be equipped with a high output kit, but since this style is smaller, it won't outperform T8 and T12 tube lights. T5 fixtures are often used for under-cabinet lighting, grow lights, table lamps and specialty applications.
• T8 LED Tube Lights:Typically found for general lighting applications in offices and warehouses, T8 tube lights are the most common type of tube light available. They have a 1-inch diameter and are commonly 4 feet long, but they can also range from 1 1/2 to 8 feet in length. T8 tube lights are typically more energy efficient and last longer than T12 LED tube lights. They can replace a T12 tube if the two are the same length and wattage, but only if the ballast is bypassed in the fixture.
• T12 LED Tube Lights:A T12 tube light has a similar variety of lengths as a T8, but has a larger diameter of 1 1/2 inches.

Replacing Flourescents With LED Tube Lights -- Do LED Tubes Need Ballasts?

In a fluorescent light fixture, the device uses a ballast to help regulate the lamp’s brightness as it heats up. The ballast is housed inside the fluorescent fixture and cannot be accessed without removing the unit from the ceiling. LED tube lights do not require a ballast, so swapping a fluorescent tube for an LED requires some consideration about the fixture.

Whether or not your LED tube light can be installed directly into a fixture with a ballast depends on the type of tube light and the manufacturer. The most common types of LED tube lights are:

• Plug and play:Depending on the manufacturer, these types of LED tube lights are often called Type A. These are ballast-compatible/ready lamps and the simplest method for replacing fluorescent tube lights. Most T8s are considered plug-and-play and can be used as a direct replacement for the fluorescent tube without needing any rewiring.
• Direct:Also referred to as a Type B tube, these are direct wire lights that are not compatible with fluorescent ballasts. These tube lights require the ballast to be disconnected from the installation before placement.
• Hybrid:A hybrid (or "dual mode") tube light is also known as a Type C, and can be used in fixtures with or without a ballast until the ballast’s lifespan is complete. Once the ballast no longer works, it can be bypassed and the light can be used like a direct tube.

Understanding the Color Temperature Benefits of LED Tube Lights

When exploring LED tube light replacement options, you’ll come across a variety of different terms, including the light’s color temperature rating. Color temperature is measured using degrees Kelvin and ensures your space has consistent lighting. Lower Kelvin values produce a subtle, warmer yellow glow, while higher Kelvin creates bright light in whites and blues. Lower color temperatures are best suited for comfortable environments, such as in facilities focused on hospitality. Higher Kelvin readings are considered better for display areas, high-security areas and task lighting applications, where visibility matters most.

Learn More About LED Tube Lights from LEDtronics

LEDtronics is the most trusted name in LED bulb and tube light manufacturing and supply. With more than 35 years of industry experience and a team of knowledgeable experts, we’re confident we can provide you with quality LED tube lights that meet your long-term needs and budget. Contact us today for more on our LED tube light products — call 310-534-1505 to speak to a team member or fill out our online form to request additional information.