T8 Fluorescent Tubes are used all over the world and are a long-standing choice for lighting over the years. From schools to kitchens, they are certainly popular and used frequently.
However, it's time for a change, as LEDs can offer new, efficient technology that saves energy. There are many benefits of LEDs, which is why people are opting to swap their T8 fluorescent tubes with LEDs.
Here at Vision Lighting, we specialise in commercial LED lighting in the UK, offering a variety of lighting solutions and unbeatable customer service.
With the modern technology of LEDs becoming more accessible than ever, you may be seeking to replace your T8 fluorescent tubes. This can be a daunting process, but no need to worry, as here we have provided the ultimate guide for you!
Why You Should Replace your T8 Fluorescent Tubes
You may be wondering, why is it worth replacing your T8 Fluorescent Tubes? Isn't the technology basically the same? Well we're here to tell you everything you need to know about switching to LEDs!
LEDs Are More Efficient
LEDs are a great deal more efficient than T8 Fluorescent Tubes, with the added bonus of more light! This great difference in efficiency is down to how LEDs only emit light in one direction, unlike fluorescent tubes which emit light from a 360-degree angle; this results in so much wasted light! There is also no wastage of heat, meaning that today’s latest technology can produce over 200 lumens per watt of energy used. In real terms, this can mean 400% more light produced!
LEDs Are More Environmentally Friendly
Fluorescent tubes contain mercury, which LEDs do not. Therefore, no chemical reaction takes place inside LEDs in order for light to be emitted. There is no chance of that nasty toxic waste infecting the environment when LEDs are disposed of.
Due to the presence of mercury in fluorescent lights, the UK government is aiming to Check out our T8 LED tubes that have an internal power supply to make installation easy- plus get 2 years peace of mind with our 2 year warranty on the T8 LED Tubes!
A Step-by-Step Guide to LED Installation
Here you can find all the steps required for replacing your T8 Fluorescent Tubes. Let's get started!
1. Switch off the power supply and remove the old tube
Disconnecting the electric current seems obvious, but it's crucial to remember as it removes the risk of an electric shock and is therefore the first step in ensuring safety. When the power is disconnected, you are safe to remove the old tube.
It’s crucial that this is done at the main distribution board and not at the light switch in the room it is installed in, as it is preferred that the entire circuit is disconnected from live power for safety reasons.
Make sure to place the old tube down carefully on a flat surface to prevent it from breaking, as the tubes contain a small amount of mercury.
2. Remove the ballast
There are two types of ballasts: an electronic ballast and magnetic ballast.
When disconnecting the ballast from your T8 fluorescent tube, cut the neutral wire and simply remove it. Then to remove the starter, repeat this process with the phase wire (which will be brown, black or grey).
In some cases, you may also need to remove the starter, which is a small unit that looks like a cylindrical battery. Ensure that all of your new parts are compatible with your light fitting, such as the length and type of socket.
3. Replace the T8 fluorescent tube light with the LED tube lights
How you replace your tube depends on what kind of LED you have.
If your LED has only one side connection, you need to connect the neutral cable to one of the metal pins at the end of the tube holder (where the driver is placed).
The phase cable then attaches to the pin that is located on the same end of the tube. Usually, there are instructions with the tube to inform you which is the right end.
Or if your LED does not have one side connection, you must connect the neutral cable to the two pins at one end of the tube, then the phase cable to the other two pins at the opposite end.
4. Reconnect the power supply and turn on
Double check that all wires are in the correct place. After a thorough check, you are now ready for the moment of truth!
If you have any concerns, such as buzzing or flickering from your LED, it is safest to contact an electrician.
Then there you have it! A brand new light to freshen up your space, along with energy efficient, environmental benefits.
Replace your T8 Fluorescent Tubes with High-Quality LED Products
By choosing us for your replacement products, you're choosing an experienced team with customer service at the top of their priorities. As an ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 UKAS accredited company, you can expect the very best LED products and services.
Replacing your T8 fluorescent tubes is clearly worth it, and this process can be made even easier with the wide range of products we stock here at Vision Lighting. Browse our range of exceptional LED products>/a>!