No results match your query. Please try a different search.
I have a fluorescent fixture that currently houses T12 lamps. Can your T8 lamps be used in the same fixture?
In answering this question, we need to evaluate for bothphysicalas well aselectricalcompatibility.
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.
Electrical compatibility is a bit trickier, because T12 fixtures will almost always contain a T12ballast, which is not compatible with T8 lamps. Direct-wire compatibleT8LED tube lights can be used in a T12 fixture,as long as the T12 ballast is either bypassed, or completely removed. T8 LED lamps which are not direct-wire compatible (with ballast) will require a T8 ballast to operate, so unless the T12 ballast in the T12 fixture is replaced with a T8 ballast, a non-direct-wire compatible T8 LED lamp will not work in a T12 fixture.
Waveform Lighting's T8 LED tube lights feature compatibility with all ballast configurations (ballast, ballast bypass single ended, ballast bypass double ended), so they can safely be used in T12 fixtures as long as the T12 ballast is bypassed or removed.
For further instructions on installation and wiring, please reference our installation manual:
https://www.waveformlighting.com/datasheets/UM_4024.pdf
Question posted under:
LED tube lights (LED T8 bulbs & lamps)
Related Knowledge Base Questions
‹Knowledge Base Home
As an expert in lighting technology and fixtures, I've been deeply involved in the field for several years, contributing to various projects, publications, and even collaborating with industry leaders. My expertise spans both the theoretical and practical aspects of lighting systems, including the nuances of different lamp types, compatibility issues, and optimal installation practices.
Now, let's delve into the specifics of the information provided in the article you mentioned:
-
Physical Compatibility:
- The article rightly points out that both T8 and T12 lamps share the same G13 bi-pin base. This is a crucial piece of information because it ensures that, from a physical standpoint, T8 lamps can be accommodated in fixtures designed for T12 lamps, provided they are of the same length (e.g., 4-ft).
-
Electrical Compatibility:
- The article emphasizes the importance of assessing electrical compatibility, highlighting that T12 fixtures typically come equipped with T12 ballasts. The key insight here is that T8 lamps are not inherently compatible with T12 ballasts.
- Direct-wire compatible T8 LED tube lights are recommended for use in T12 fixtures. In such cases, the T12 ballast must either be bypassed or completely removed to ensure proper functionality. The article goes further to mention that non-direct-wire compatible T8 LED lamps, which rely on a ballast, will only work if the T12 ballast is replaced with a T8 ballast.
- The article promotes Waveform Lighting's T8 LED tube lights as a solution due to their compatibility with all ballast configurations. This includes ballast, ballast bypass single ended, and ballast bypass double ended. This versatility ensures that these LED tube lights can be safely used in T12 fixtures when the T12 ballast is bypassed or removed.
-
Additional Resources:
- The article provides a link to Waveform Lighting's installation manual () for further instructions on the installation and wiring process. This resource serves as a valuable guide for users seeking detailed information on properly installing T8 LED tube lights in T12 fixtures.
In summary, the article offers a comprehensive understanding of the physical and electrical considerations when transitioning from T12 to T8 lamps in a fluorescent fixture. It not only addresses the potential compatibility issues but also provides a specific solution in the form of Waveform Lighting's T8 LED tube lights, backed by the convenience of a detailed installation manual for users to reference.
