Choosing the right fluorescent tube for your space may seem overwhelming at first. After all, many different types and sizes are available today, including energy-efficient LED fluorescent tubes. This modern variant offers numerous advantages in terms of light quality, lifespan, and energy consumption. In this article, we guide you through the key considerations when choosing an LED fluorescent tube, so you know exactly which version best suits your situation and lighting needs.
What are the benefits of an LED fluorescent tube?
If you are looking for an efficient and environmentally friendly lighting solution, LED fluorescent tubes are the perfect choice.This modern lighting technology offers numerous advantages that not only reduce your energy consumption, but also ensure a pleasant and constant lighting experience.
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Energy efficiency:
One of the biggest advantages of LED fluorescent tubes is their low energy consumption. They use significantly less power than traditional fluorescent tubes, resulting in lower energy costs in the long run. This makes LED fluorescent tubes a sustainable choice for both residential and commercial applications. -
Long lifespan:
LED fluorescent tubes have a much longer lifespan than conventional alternatives. You need to replace them less often, which saves costs and contributes to less waste. -
Eco-friendly:
Unlike traditional fluorescent tubes, LED fluorescent tubes do not contain harmful substances such as mercury.This makes them safer for people and the environment, and by switching to LED, you actively contribute to a more sustainable world. -
Instant and bright light:
LED tube lights provide full brightness immediately upon switching on, with no warm-up time. This ensures optimal visibility and increases comfort and productivity, for example in offices or workspaces. -
Customizable light colors:
Another advantage of LED tube lights is the choice of light color. Whether you opt for warm white for a cozy atmosphere or cool daylight for a functional work environment, LED tube lights offer the flexibility to suit any space.
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What should you consider when buying an LED tube light?
When switching to LED tube lights, there are several important factors to consider in order to make the right choice.Below we have outlined the most important points to help you select the right LED fluorescent tube for your situation.
In addition, we have included an image that clearly shows how the connection of an old fluorescent tube differs from a new LED fluorescent tube. This gives you a clear overview of the correct way to connect them at a glance.
1. LED fluorescent tube fittings:
Always check the fitting of your existing fixture before switching to LED fluorescent lighting. LED fluorescent tubes are available in various fittings, and it is important that the new tube is compatible with your current fixture. This allows you to easily switch without extra adjustments or new parts.
The most common fluorescent fixtures are:
- G13 – suitable for the thicker fluorescent tube (T8)
- G5 – suitable for the thinner fluorescent tube (T5)
2. Wattages and lengths of LED tube vs. conventional tube
The correct length of the LED tube is closely linked to the wattage of the conventional fluorescent tube you are replacing. By comparing these values, you can easily choose the LED tube that matches your lighting requirements in terms of light output.
Old conventional fluorescent tubes (wattages):
- 60 cm = 18 Watt
- 90 cm = 28 Watt
- 120 cm = 36 Watt
- 150 cm = 58 Watt
New LED fluorescent tubes (wattages):
- 60 cm = 8 Watt
- 90 cm = 14 Watt
- 105 cm = 14 Watt
- 120 cm = 18 Watt
- 150 cm = 24 Watt
3. Existing fluorescent fixture with or without starters
Determine whether your current fixture has a starter or not. If your current fluorescent fixture has a starter, you can easily replace it with an LED fluorescent tube. Screw an LED starter into the fixture and then install the LED fluorescent tube into the fixture.Some LED fluorescent tubes do not require a starter. If you want to install an LED fluorescent tube in such a fixture, you will either need to buy a new LED fluorescent fixture or convert your current fluorescent fixture. You can read how to convert an old fluorescent fixture in our blog post "How do I connect LED fluorescent lighting?" This blog offers valuable tips for a smooth installation.
4. Light colors and color codes:
Understand the transition from old to new color codes to avoid confusion when choosing the right light temperature. A good understanding of these codes helps you quickly find the perfect LED fluorescent tube for your application.
| Code | Kelvin (K) | Light color | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| 827 | 2700K | Warm white | Suitable for homes and retail |
| 830 | 3000K | Warm white | Suitable for homes and retail |
| 840 | 4000K | Natural white | Suitable for halls, stairwells, meeting rooms, offices, schools, warehouses, hair salons, stables, supermarkets, and hardware stores |
| 850 | 5000K | Daylight | Suitable for warehouses, riding schools, sports halls, and workshops |
| 860 | 6000K | Daylight white | Suitable for warehouses, workshops, car garages, laboratories, operating rooms, treatment rooms, printing shops, and storage areas |
| 865 | 6500K | Daylight white | Suitable for warehouses, workshops, car garages, laboratories, operating rooms, treatment rooms, printing shops, and storage areas |
5.Connection method for old and new LED T8/TL:
Take the time to fully understand the connection method for your fluorescent tube. Older fluorescent tubes use two different types of ballasts:
Conventional or magnetic ballast – works with an LED starter (the fluorescent tube can be replaced one-to-one).
Electronic ballast – does not work with an LED starter (the fixture must be modified for LED).
Please note that LED fluorescent tubes are powered on one side, whereas traditional fluorescent tubes receive power on both sides. Depending on the type of fixture, you will therefore either need to use a starter or modify the fixture to connect the LED fluorescent tube correctly.
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| Fluorescent tube with conventional/magnetic ballast |
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| Fluorescent fixture with electronic ballast |
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| LED fluorescent tube connection |
Which length of LED fluorescent tube is suitable for your space?
To choose the right fluorescent tube, it is important to consider the length, light output, mounting height, and desired light color. The table below helps you determine which fluorescent tube best fits your space and application.
| TL tube length | Application | Required light output | Fixture mounting height | Installation advice | Recommended light color |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 cm | Under kitchen cabinets, displays, wardrobes, pantries | 500–550 lumens | < 1.5 meters | Rooms < 1.5 m – single TL tube | 3000K – Warm white/4000K – Natural white |
| 60 cm | Small shed, above small workbench, bicycle shed, storage room | 1050 lumens | 2–2.5 meters | Rooms > 2 m – single TL tube/> 2.5 m – double TL tube | 4000K – Natural white/6000K – Daylight white |
| 90 cm | Hallways, bicycle shed, small storage | 1450 lumens | 2–3 meters | Rooms < 2 m – single TL tube/> 3 m – double TL tube | 4000K – Natural white |
| 120 cm | Larger sheds, storage rooms, smaller warehouses, stables, bicycle shed | 2000 lumens | 3–3.5 meters | Rooms < 3 m – single TL tube/> 3.5 m – double TL tube | 5000K – Daylight/6000K – Daylight white |
| 150 cm | Large sheds, high warehouses, industrial halls, stables, storage | 2650 lumens | 3.5–4.5 meters | Rooms > 3.5 m – single TL tube/> 4.5 m – double TL tube | 5000K – Daylight/6000K – Daylight white |
