T8 LED Tube Lights

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve created the list below based on questions from first time buyers and repeat customers. Check out the most frequently asked questions on LED tube lights or call us on (888) 423-3191 and we'll do our best to assist you.

General

How Many T5 LED Tube Lights Can You Connect Together?

There is no limitation to the number of tubes connected together, the only limitation is how many tubes can you put in a fixture. LED tubes do not consume as much energy as the fluorescent tubes they replace, so there should not be any issues with amp load on the panel circuit even if you replace tubes one for one.

How Many T8 LED Tube Lights Can I add in a Single Row?

There are no limitations, but at some point, too many tubes will make the area too bright.

Can I Switch from T5 to T8 Tube Lights?

This is more of a function of the lampholders. If the end pins are exactly the same, then yes, you can convert. Secondly, there has to be enough room in the fixture. T5 tubes are about half the diameter of T8 tubes, so make sure there is enough space and that you will get the light level you require. There is also an option to use magnetic strips if more light is needed.

How Long Do LED Tube Lights Last?

Most tubes will easily last 50,000 hours. At 12 hours a day, 5 days a week, that’s 16 years of life.

What Is a Retrofit LED Tube Light?

All LED tubes are actually retrofits, they are designed and certified to replace fluorescent tubes inside an existing fixture.

What Is a Type “A” LED Tube?

A type “A” tube is one that is able to use the existing ballast inside the fluorescent fixture. A word of caution. There are times when a ballast is not compatible with the tube, so there is no guarantee that the tube will work with your existing ballasts.

Type “A” Pros: simple installation, remove the old tube, install the LED tube;
Type “A” Cons: at some point you will still need to deal with the ballast. Your ballast and the LED tube might not be compatible. The ballast still consumes electricity and may hum.

What Is a Type “B” LED Tube?

A type “B” tube is not ballast compatible, and the ballast needs to be disconnected and the tombstones need to be rewired to accept standard AC power. There are two types of Type “B tubes: internal driver and external driver models. By far, the most common are internal driver tubes.

Type “B” Pros: no ballast, maximum energy savings, never an issue with ballast compatibility. Greater energy savings over Type “A”;
Type “B” Cons: longer installation time, but once you’re done, no ballast issues.

What Is a Hybrid Tube?

A Hybrid Tube is both ballast compatible and direct connect [Type A and B], so you can use it either way.

What Is Single Ended Power vs. Double Ended Power?

A single ended power tube requires a non shunted tombstone and is powered up from one end of the tube only. The other end is unpowered. A double ended tube requires shunted tombstones, with line to one tombstone and neutral to the other.

Are Tube Tombstones Shunted or Non-Shunted?

Shunted tombstones can only accept singular power, non shunted tombstones can accept both line and neutral power sources.

Do Tombstones Need to Be Replaced with a LED Tube Retrofit?

No, but if you are using Type B tubes, you will need to rewire them to accept AC power and not fluorescent ballast power.

Before You Buy

When Should I Use a Tube Instead of a New Fixture?

Installation is quick and easy when you use tubes, especially ballast compatible tubes. You do not need to hire an electrician to install these tubes, your normal maintenance staff in your facility can do the replacement. Just make sure the power is turned off before you change out the tubes.

How Much Are LED Tube Lights?

Typically, they can be purchased for under $10 per tube. Large quantity and bulk discounts apply.

I Can Get Tubes for $5 - Can You Meet That Price?

We’ve had customers purchase $5 tubes on their own and then come back to us because all of the tubes are failing. Quality costs a little bit more but it always pays off in the long run. The tubes we sell come with a 5 year warranty.

Fixtures and Fittings

Do These Tube Lights Have One Sided Power?

Yes, some of the tubes we sell are single ended power.

Are LED Tubes Dimmable?

Some are, but not all of them. Talk to a LED Lighting Supply expert and we can walk you through our dimmable options.

Are LED Tube Lights Color Changeable?

We do not offer color changeable tubes.

Do LED Tube Lights Have a Motion Sensor?

Some tubes come with a motion sensor option, but we do not offer that option.

Installation

Can You Use Plug and Play LED Lights into Tube Lights?

Yes, we have ballast compatible LED tubes.

How to Bypass a Ballast to Install LED Tubes?

That is a function of cutting out the ballast, and then wiring the tombstones directly to AC power. It’s important to understand whether you have single ended powered tubes or double ended power, and the types of tombstones in the fixtures. You will require an electrician to do this.

How Do You Retrofit LED Tube Lights?

If you have ballast compatible tubes, it’s as simple as removing the old fluorescent tubes and installing the new LED tubes. If you are looking to bypass the ballast, you need a qualified electrician to do the rewiring of the fixture.