The Best Manufacturer of LED Replacement For Fluorescent Lighting in China

10 Years Production Experience LED Replacement For Fluorescent Lights Manufacturer

LED replacement for fluorescent lights is highly sought after in recent years. Most facilities have installed fluorescent lights in times past but now wish to replace them with modern and better LED lights. Replacing fluorescent light fixtures with LED is straightforward with well-built LED fixtures.

One of the top benefits of LED lights over fluorescent lights is lower energy consumption. An 18w LED lighting will replace old 36w fluorescent lighting. The same is applicable for The 22w LED tube light which replaces the 54w/58ww fluorescent tube and more wattage differences.

You can acquire LED replacement for fluorescent lights in hundreds and thousands of units. Wholesalers can make bulk purchases, and an electrical contactor can request customized engravings alongside large-scale purchases.

Visit the VST online store today to buy choice lighting.

VST: The Most Reliable Source of Top Notch LED Replacement For Fluorescent Lights

Replacing fluorescent light fixtures with LED fixtures is a sure way to enjoy long-lasting lighting solutions. LED lights are highly efficient and fitted with thousands of lumens and a CRI of 80+. This high-quality lighting system produces distinct brightness suitable for both indoor and outdoor areas.

Converting fluorescent to LED is easy especially since similar fixtures are used. VST manufactures T4, T5, T8, and T12 light fixtures. With fluorescent bulb-led replacement solutions, up to 60% can be saved on energy purchase. Although LED lights are brighter, they still consume less compared to fluorescent lights.

LED replacement for fluorescent lights are applicable in supermarkets, classrooms, offices, parking lots, industrial facilities, and other areas, both indoor and outdoor. Supermarkets and other facilities replace fluorescent lights with LEDs for accurate colors and safety. LED contains no Mercury, unlike fluorescent. LEDs are safe, eco-friendly and recyclable. Replacing fluorescent light fixtures with LEDs prevents the emission of UV rays or excessive heat.

LED lights replacing fluorescent tubes do not flicker or have any delay. Instead, LED lights turn on instantly and remain stable. Each LED replacement for fluorescent has more than 50,000 hours of continuous runtime. Replacing a fluorescent light fixture with an LED fixture allows a user to choose different color tones; daylight or the yellow warm color.

You should contact us at VST either as a wholesaler or electrical contractor to buy  LED replacements for fluorescent light.

T8 LED Tube Light Model Options
Model NO. VST-T8-300-4W VST-T8-450-7W VST-T8-600-10W VST-T8-900-14W VST-T8-1200-18W VST-T8-1500-22W VST-T8-1800-30W VST-T8-2400-40W
Watt 4w 7w 10w 14w 18w 22w / 25w 30w 40w
Size 300mm/2ft 450mm/18inch 600mm/2ft 900mm/3ft 1200mm/4ft 1500mm/5ft 1800mm/6ft 2400mm/8ft
Lumens 500~900lm 700~1000lm 1000~1800lm 1400lm~2520lm 1800lm~3240lm 2200lm~4500lm 3000~5400lm 4000~7200lm
Lumen Efficiency 100lm/w, 120lm/w, 140lm/w, 150lm/w, 160lm/w, 180lm/w for options
Conventional lamp equivalent 8W
Fluorescent Tube
15W
Fluorescent Tube
18W/20W
Fluorescent Tube
30W
Fluorescent Tube
36W/40W
Fluorescent Tube
54W/58W
Fluorescent Tube
70W
Fluorescent Tube
110W
Fluorescent Tube
Working Voltage AC85~265V, AC100~277V / 347V, AC200~240V, DC12V, DC24V; 50/60Hz
PF >0.95
THD <15%
Color Temperature 3000~3500K, 4000~4500K, 5000~5500K, 6000~6500K, Pink, Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, Purple
CRI CRI>80, CRI>90
LED Chip  SMD2835
Materials Aluminium alloy housing + PC cover
PC cover options Milky/Strip/Transparent
End cap G13 rotary option, T8-G5, R17D/Fa6/Fa8 single pin
Working Temperature -20℃ ~ +45℃
IP Grade IP20 / IP65 / IP67
Lifespan 50,000hrs
Warranty 3 years / 5 years
Package Foam+Carton
73*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:60pcs
G.W.8kg
20ft:38440pcs
40ft:82310pcs
40ft HQ:90900
Foam+Carton
105*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:60pcs
G.W.8kg
20ft:24120pcs
40ft:38320pcs
40ft HQ:64800
Foam+Carton
73*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:30pcs
G.W.8kg
20ft:19440pcs
40ft:41310pcs
40ft HQ:45900
Foam+Carton
105*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:30pcs
G.W.11.5kg
20ft:12120pcs
40ft:29160pcs
40ft HQ:32400pcs
Foam+Carton
130*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:30pcs
G.W.14kg
20ft:10440pcs
40ft:21840pcs
40ft HQ:27000pcs
Foam+Carton
165*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:30pcs
G.W.17kg
20ft:8370pcs
40ft:17820pcs
40ft HQ:19710pcs
Foam+Carton
195*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:30pcs
G.W.22kg
20ft:7290pcs
40ft:14580pcs
40ft HQ:16200pcs
Foam+Carton
255*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:30pcs
G.W.32kg
20ft:4860pcs
40ft:9720pcs
40ft HQ:10800pcs
T6 T5 LED Tube Light Model Options
Model NO. VST-T5-600-10W VST-T5-900-14W VST-T5-1200-18W VST-T5-1500-24W
Watt 10w 14w 18w / 22w 24w / 30w
Size 549mm/24inch/2ft 849mm/36inch/3ft 1149mm/48inch/4ft 1449mm/60inch/5ft
Lumens 1200~1500lm 1680lm~2100lm 2160lm~3300lm 2880lm~4500lm
Lumen Efficiency 120lm/w, 140lm/w, 150lm/w for options
Working Voltage AC85~265V, AC100~277V / 347V, AC200~240V, DC12V, DC24V; 50/60Hz
PF >0.95
THD <15%
Color Temperature 3000~3500K, 4000~4500K, 5000~5500K, 6000~6500K, Pink, Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, Purple
CRI CRI>80, CRI>90
LED Chip Epistar SMD2835
Materials Aluminium alloy housing + PC cover
PC cover options Milky/Transparent
End cap G5
Working Temperature -20℃ ~ +45℃
IP Grade IP51
Lifespan 50,000hrs
Warranty 3 years / 5 years
Package Foam + Carton
73*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:56pcs/carton
G.W.:10.5kg/carton
20ft :10368pcs
40ft :22032pcs
40ft HQ :24480pcs
Foam + Carton
100*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:56pcs/carton
G.W.:12.6kg/carton
20ft :6480pcs
40ft :15552pcs
40ft HQ :17280pcs
Foam + Carton
160*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:56pcs/carton
G.W.:15kg/carton
20ft :4464pcs
40ft :9504pcs
40ft HQ :10512pcs
Foam + Carton
160*25*25cm
Carton Q’ty:56pcs/carton
G.W.:19.5kg/carton
20ft :4464pcs
40ft :9504pcs
40ft HQ :10512pcs

 

LED Tube Installation Power On One Side
LED Tube Installation Power On One Side
LED Tube Installation Power On Two Side
LED Tube Installation Power On Two Side

Knowing as friends since 2010, we are always working together. Just like what he says in the video, “from 60,000pcs I only had a few breakdowns which were directly, immediately replaced”. There are still tens of spare drivers we sent to him in case of a breakdown in their warehouse because they don’t need them at all.

We know each other in late 2013, right after testing for 4pcs samples, a 800pcs order is placed and the collaboration keeps going well. We do a big project together but due to the agreement, we can’t say more details here.

Their company is an electrical contractor, doing many projects. We started to work together since 2013. Continuous purchasing LED products from us like 2G11 and T8 LED Tube. Now trying our LED Flood Light and Street Light, believe to expand cooperation soon.

The Best Supplier and Distributor of LED Lights Fluorescent Replacement

You can be a wholesaler or contractor to end-users who are converting fluorescent lights to LED. Small-scale change of fluorescent lights to LED is easy. For a large-scale type that may require a connection to a computerized system, you can request the service of field engineers for hassle-free installation.

You are guaranteed a 3-5 years warranty on all purchases. Our delivery system is likewise fast and accurate. We are flexible and can meet with tight schedules and timelines. With 10 years of experience, we manufacture top quality with RoHS & CE certification.

Contact us today to get a quote and enjoy great prices.

LED Replacement for Fluorescent Lights – The Ultimate FAQ Guide

Thinking about converting your fluorescent lights to LED? You’re on the right track.

Whether your fluorescent lamps have reached the end of their lifespan or you’re looking to upgrade your lighting, LED replacement for fluorescent lights is a great way to improve the lighting in your space and reduce your lighting costs at the same time.

However, the different types of LED light bulbs available and the different considerations to make can make converting to LED seem like such a daunting process.

This is why we’ve compiled this guide to answer all your questions and simplify the whole process.

From the right fluorescent bulb LED replacement to buy to how to reap the most benefits when you make the switch to LED, this LED replacement for fluorescent guide covers it all.

LED lights replacing fluorescent tubes
LED lights replacing fluorescent tubes

Table of Content

  1. Can you change fluorescent lights to LED?
  2. What are the different LED replacement for fluorescent options?
  3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of plug and play LED replacement for fluorescent?
  4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of direct wire LED replacement for fluorescent lights?
  5. What are the pros and cons of Type C LED replacement for fluorescent?
  6. What are the pros and cons of replacing fluorescent light fixture with LED?
  7. Can I replace fluorescent tubes with LEDs?
  8. What LED lights to replace fluorescent tubes?
  9. What LED lights to replace T12 fluorescent tube lights?
  10. What LED lights to replace T8 fluorescent tubes?
  11. Can I replace T12 and T8 fluorescent lights with T5 LED lights?
  12. Can you replace compact fluorescent lights (CFL) with LED?
  13. What LED bulbs can you replace fluorescent CFL with?
  14. What are the options when replacing fluorescent light fixture with LED?
  15. How do LEDs compare to fluorescent lights?
  16. How are LEDs better than fluorescent lights?
  17. Are LED lights brighter than fluorescent?
  18. Are LED lights cooler than fluorescent?
  19. Are LED lights more energy efficient than fluorescent?
  20. Which is safer: LED or fluorescent?
  21. Why is CFL better than LED?
  22. Is it worth switching to LED bulbs?
  23. What benefits do I stand to realize by converting fluorescent lights to LED?
  24. What are the disadvantages of LED lights?
  25. How much does it cost to convert fluorescent to LED?
  26. What is the most cost effective way to move from fluorescent to LED?
  27. Are LED lights cheaper to run than fluorescent?
  28. How long does it take for LED lights to pay for themselves?
  29. How much can you save by converting fluorescent to LED bulbs?
  30. How to choose the best LED replacement for fluorescent lights?
  31. How to choose the right LED fluorescent replacement tubes?
  32. How to choose LED replacement lights for compact fluorescent lamps?
  33. What LED wattage equivalent to get?
  34. What other considerations should I make in order to choose the best LED replacement for fluorescent lights?
  35. How to change fluorescent lights to LED?
  36. Can I replace fluorescent lights LED lights on my own?
  37. How to put LED bulbs in fluorescent fixtures?
  38. Do LED lights require a ballast and starter?
  39. Do I need to remove the ballast to use a fluorescent bulb LED replacement?
  40. How to bypass the ballast when converting fluorescent lights to LED?
  41. What to do with old or broken down fluorescent bulbs?

1. Can you change fluorescent lights to LED?

 You can easily switch from fluorescent to LED
You can easily switch from fluorescent to LED

Fluorescent lights can and are being replaced with LED lights.

It’s actually a smart move as it will improve the quality of illumination in your space and also bring down your electricity costs

2. What are the different LED replacement for fluorescent options?

When converting fluorescent lights to LED you have four different replacement options to choose from:

  • UL Type A plug and play LED replacement for fluorescent lights: Simply remove the old fluorescent lamp and slide in the LED lamp.
  • UL Type B/Ballast bypass/Direct wire replacement: This will require you to modify the fluorescent fixture to bypass or remove the ballast and connect the LED light to the line voltage.
  • UL Type C/hybrid replacement: This replacement option works either way. You can use it as a plug and play replacement until the current ballast stops working. You can then remove the ballast and direct wire the LED lamp to the line voltage.
  • Entire fixture replacement: Finally, you can replace both the fluorescent fixture and bulbs with a new LED fixture and bulbs.

Each LED replacement for fluorescent options has its pros and cons. Make sure you weigh them before deciding on the best way to go about converting fluorescent lights to LED.

LED panel light fixture for fluorescent fixture replacement
LED panel light fixture for fluorescent fixture replacement

3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of plug and play LED replacement for fluorescent?

Plug and play fluorescent replacement with Type A LED lamps is the easiest, quickest, and cheapest way to migrate from fluorescent to LED.

Advantages

  • A type A LED replacement for fluorescent lights is the most affordable replacement option when you’re on a tight budget.
  • Since there’s no wiring required, you don’t have to pay an electrician to handle the conversion. You can replace fluorescent light LED lights yourself.

Disadvantages

While plug-and-play LED replacement for fluorescent lights has the lowest upfront costs, it has the highest running costs and yields the least cost savings in the long run.

  • The fluorescent ballast continues to draw electricity which reduces the energy efficiency of the LED light.
  • The ballast will eventually expire and require you to purchase a new ballast and pay an electrician to replace it.
  • Another challenge here is that not all retrofit LED lights are compatible with all fluorescent ballasts. You have to check the ballast compatibility information in order to choose the right replacement light.

4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of direct wire LED replacement for fluorescent lights?

A ballast bypass replacement with LED lights comes equipped with an internal driver and is the best option in terms of energy and cost-efficiency.

Pros

  • It does away with the ballast completely thus reducing power consumption.
  • Removing the ballast also means that you won’t have to spend money for ballast replacement in the future.
  • Direct wire LED replacement for fluorescent is not as expensive as a hybrid fluorescent bulb LED replacement.

Cons

  • On the downside, bypassing the ballast entails direct wiring the lights to the line voltage.
  • This presents an electrocution risk and requires that you hire an electrician to convert the lights safely.
A comparison of LED replacement for fluorescent options
A comparison of LED replacement for fluorescent options

5. What are the pros and cons of Type C LED replacement for fluorescent?

Type C fluorescent bulb LED replacement is the most versatile option. Equipped with an external driver, it’s compatible with a wide range of fluorescent fixtures.

Pros

  • You can plug Type C lamps directly into the fixture up until the existing ballast stops working.
  • Once the ballast expires, you don’t have to spend money to purchase a new ballast. Simply remove the old ballast and connect the LED bulb to the line voltage.
  • If you intend to use dimming and other lighting control systems, Type C will allow you to do this in a hassle free way.

Cons

  • In terms of upfront costs, Type C LED replacement for fluorescent is the most expensive to purchase.
  • You still have to hire an electrician when it’s time to direct wire the lights.

6. What are the pros and cons of replacing fluorescent light fixture with LED?

Pros

  • Replacing fluorescent light fixture with LED will do wonders to your interior decor. LED fixtures are compact and look very sleek.
  • Beyond aesthetics, switching both the fixture and the bulb will help you reap maximum benefits in terms of energy efficiency.
  • And it’s actually easier to remove the old fluorescent fixture and install a new LED fixture than it is to remove the ballast and direct wire the LED lights in the fluorescent fixture.

Cons

  • However, you will have to spend more money upfront when replacing fluorescent light fixture with LED.

7. Can I replace fluorescent tubes with LEDs?

Fluorescent tube lights can be replaced with LED tubes.

T8 and T5 LED light tubes are designed for this purpose.

In fact, they are also referred to as LED fluorescent tube lights.

8. What LED lights to replace fluorescent tubes?

Fluorescent vs LED tube light
Fluorescent vs LED tube light

This depends on what kind of fluorescent tubes you have in your space right now.

It could be T12, T8, or T5 fluorescent tubes. You can tell what kind of tube you have by reading the markings at the end of the tube.

If the markings are no longer legible, you can measure the diameter of the tube.

  • T12 tubes have a diameter of 1.5 inches
  • T8 tubes have a diameter of 1 inch
  • T5 tubes have a diameter of 5/8 of an inch

9. What LED lights to replace T12 fluorescent tube lights?

T8 LED tubes are the ideal replacements for T10 and T12 fluorescent tube lights.

As long as the T8 LED tubes you get are of the same length and have the same base type as the fluorescent tubes you’re replacing, they should fit right into the existing fluorescent fixture.

10. What LED lights to replace T8 fluorescent tubes?

You need T8 LED tube lights to replace T8 fluorescent tubes. Both types of tubes have the same diameter and base type.

11. Can I replace T12 and T8 fluorescent lights with T5 LED lights?

T5 LED tube lights are not compatible with T12 and T8 fluorescent fixtures.

If you would like to move to high output T5 LED, you will have to replace the entire fixture with an integrated T5 LED fixture.

This will cost more than replacing just the lamps but the energy savings are more than worth it especially when it’s for high bay applications that require high-intensity lighting over an expansive area.

12. Can you replace compact fluorescent lights (CFL) with LED?

You can replace compact fluorescent lights with LED bulbs.

Even though CFLs are already very energy efficient, LED bulbs will consume lower power and help you save even more money on electricity.

13. What LED bulbs can you replace fluorescent CFL with?

CFLs can be replaced with LED PL lights that are compatible with the CFL fixture. For example, the pin configuration and base type should be similar.

LED G24q PL lamp for CFL replacement
LED G24q PL lamp for CFL replacement

14. What are the options when replacing fluorescent light fixture with LED?

Replacing fluorescent light fixture with LED opens up a lot more options.

You’re not tied to LED tubes or PL lamps that share the same features as the old fluorescent lamps.

You can replace the fixture with:

  • LED panel lights: The slim, flat design is very space efficient and very effective at distributing the light evenly. They are ideal for drop ceiling grids, surface mounting, and replacing 2×4 fluorescent light fixtures.
  • Magnetic LED strips: These are very easy to install as they attach to the existing metal housing.
  • Vapor tight and wet rated LED fixtures: If you’re installing the light in a high humidity or wet environment, this is the type of luminaire to go for.
  • Strip and wrap-around LED lighting fixtures are great for ceiling mounting.
  • Recessed can fixtures: You can also swap CFL bulbs for recessed can fixtures.
Flush mount LED light fixture
Flush mount LED light fixture

15. How do LEDs compare to fluorescent lights?

While LED and fluorescent tubes may look similar, that’s as far as their similarities go.

First off, the two light technologies differ in the way they produce light.

While LEDs emit light when an electric current passes through the light emitting diodes, fluorescent lights create light when an electric current excites the mixture of gases in the lamp.

Fluorescent lamps make use of a ballast to provide the starting spark and regulate the current. LED lamps utilize a driver.

The light distribution pattern or beam angle also differs. Fluorescent lamps scatter light in all directions while LED light is directional and focused downwards.

Even the materials used in their construction aren’t the same. LEDs are made of high impact plastic and metal. Fluorescent lamps are made of glass.

The composition of the lamps is different too. LEDs are solid state devices but fluorescent lamps contain Mercury.

16. How are LEDs better than fluorescent lights?

  • LED lamps last longer than fluorescent lamps
  • LED lights are way more energy efficient than fluorescent lights.
  • LED lamps are shock and shatter resistant but fluorescent lamps break easily
  • Unlike fluorescent lights, LED lights do not emit harmful UV and IR radiation.
  • LED lights do not flicker and buzz, two issues fluorescent lights are notorious for.
  • LED lights come on to full brightness instantly while fluorescent lights can take some time to warm up and light up fully.
  • Fluorescent lights are designed for indoor use in room temperature conditions but LED lights are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

17. Are LED lights brighter than fluorescent?

When comparing fluorescent and LED lights, you will notice that fluorescent lights bear higher lumen ratings than LED.

This can cause you to wonder whether LEDs can be as bright as fluorescent lights. Does the energy efficiency of LEDs come at the cost of brightness?

The good news is that LEDs are as bright or even brighter than fluorescent lights, even though they may have lower lumen outputs.

The reason for this comes down to how the two types of lamps emit light.

Fluorescent lights emit light in an omnidirectional pattern. Some of the light goes towards the ceiling.

The light has to be reflected and redirected downwards. In the process, 30-40 % of the lumen output is lost within the fixture.

If you replace the fluorescent lights with the same number of LED tubes or PL lamps, don’t be surprised to find that you need a lower number of tubes or bulbs to achieve the same brightness.

18. Are LED lights cooler than fluorescent?

LEDs run way cooler than fluorescent lights, which can get quite hot.

LED lights use virtually all the electricity they draw to produce light. They emit very little heat, and even that is dissipated efficiently via heat sinks.

19. Are LED lights more energy efficient than fluorescent?

Fluorescent lights are omnidirectional, LED lights are directional
Fluorescent lights are omnidirectional, LED lights are directional

LED lights are more energy efficient than fluorescent tubes and CFLs. They draw way lower electricity in order to emit the same number of lumens.

Sure, fluorescent tubes and CFLs have very good source efficiency that looks good on paper.

However, their luminous efficacy or system efficiency is very low. This is because about 30-40% of the light produced is lost within the fixture.

Also, fluorescent lights use a significant amount of the power they draw to produce heat instead of light.

LED lights, on the other end of the spectrum, have stellar source efficiency and system efficiency.

Virtually all the electricity they draw is used to produce light. Very little power is wasted in the form of heat.

That LED lights do not require a ballast also improves their energy efficiency. The ballast in a fluorescent light fixture draws power thus reducing efficiency.

20. Which is safer: LED or fluorescent?

LED lighting is safer for both human beings and the earth.

Not only is LED lighting a green lighting solution that reduces carbon emissions, LED lights also do not emit ultra violet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation.

LED tubes and bulbs also do not contain hazardous chemicals such as Mercury.

Fluorescent lights, on the other hand, emit UV and IR radiation. The tubes and CFL bulbs also contain Mercury and phosphor.

21. Why is CFL better than LED?

LED PL lights beat CFL and incandescent lights in efficiency
LED PL lights beat CFL and incandescent lights in efficiency

When CFLs were introduced in the 1980s, they were the next best thing in the lighting industry.  And while their performance is still very good, it still doesn’t beat LED lights.

LED bulbs win in terms of energy efficiency, lifespan, light quality, safety, and environmental friendliness.

22. Is it worth switching to LED bulbs?

Switching to LED bulbs from fluorescent bulbs is absolutely worth it. The benefits you will enjoy will have you wondering why you didn’t upgrade sooner.

23. What benefits do I stand to realize by converting fluorescent lights to LED?

Benefits of replacing fluorescent lights with LED
Benefits of replacing fluorescent lights with LED

You probably know that LEDs are the best lighting technology in the world right now.

But you might not be aware of all the benefits these lights can bring.

Whether you’re considering LEDs for your home, office, shop, commercial or industrial facility, here are the advantages you will enjoy when you replace fluorescent light LED lights:

Cost Savings

You stand to save loads of cash by moving to LEDs. All the savings below add up to a great deal of money in the long term.

  • Reduced electricity consumption: LEDs can emit the same light output while drawing less electricity than your current fluorescent lights.
  • Reduced A/C costs: LEDs emit very little heat. Unlike fluorescent, halogen, and incandescent lights, they won’t raise the ambient temperature in your home.
  • Reduced maintenance costs: LEDs can last 50,000 to 100,000 hours without requiring maintenance. This means that you won’t have to spend money to replace the lights. If you opt for Type B LED replacement for fluorescent lights, you also won’t have to replace the ballast.

Light Quality Benefits

They say LED lighting is the next best thing to sunlight. With a color rendering index (CRI) of at least 80, it is indeed very close to natural light and provides optimal visibility.

LED lights are also not prone to buzzing and flickering. They emit steady, reliable lighting that doesn’t cause eye fatigue and headaches.

Operational Benefits

Switch LED lights on and they light up to full brightness without hesitation or warm up period.

Type C LED replacement for fluorescent lights also allow you to dim the lights or use daylight and motion sensors without hassle.

LEDs are also set and forget lights. They can last 50,000 to 100,000 hours. With Type B lights where you never have to replace ballasts, you can go for more than 10 years without maintaining or replacing the lights.

Health and Environmental Benefits

You can have peace of mind that your lighting is safe. LED lights do not emit harmful radiation and do not contain toxic chemicals.

By converting fluorescent to LED, you are also doing your part in saving the Earth.

LEDs are an eco-friendly lighting solution that reduces carbon emissions.

24. What are the disadvantages of LED lights?

The first disadvantage of LED lighting is the upfront cost.

Although LEDs are now much more affordable than they were when they were first introduced, they are still more expensive than other types of lights.

The other weakness is that LED lamps are degraded by exposure to high temperatures.

Exposing them to high ambient temperature can cause them to burn out way before their rated lifespan.

25. How much does it cost to convert fluorescent to LED?

The costs of converting fluorescent to LED includes the cost of purchasing the LED replacement lamps or fixture plus the cost of installing the LED lights.

If you opt for a plug and play LED replacement for fluorescent, you will only have to buy the lamps.

If you prefer to bypass the ballast, you will incur the cost of purchasing the LED tubes or bulbs and hiring an electrician to direct wire the lights.

26. What is the most cost effective way to move from fluorescent to LED?

In the long run, bypassing the ballast with a Type B LED lamp is the most cost effective way to change fluorescent lights to LED.

You will have to shell out more upfront but the higher cost savings will more than make up for this initial cost.

If you’re on a tight budget and looking for the most affordable option in terms of the upfront investment, a direct LED replacement for fluorescent is the cheapest option.

A Type A LED replacement for fluorescent is the most affordable to purchase and you won’t have to hire an electrician as there’s no wiring involved.

27. Are LED lights cheaper to run than fluorescent?

The running costs for LED lights are lower than those of fluorescent lights.

LED lighting draws less wattage, which means reduced electricity bills.

They also don’t utilize a ballast so you won’t have to spend money to replace the ballast. (This benefit doesn’t apply if you used a Type A plug and play LED replacement for fluorescent).

And since LED lamps last 10+ years without requiring maintenance or replacement, you will also spend less money to maintain the lights.

28. How long does it take for LED lights to pay for themselves?

LEDs have a short payback period. You will start to reap a return on investment right from day one.

And will be able to recoup the upfront costs in less than a year. Higher wattage LED lights pay for themselves even faster.

In high bay lighting applications where the lights are left on 24/7, you can recoup the cost of converting to LED in under one month.

29. How much can you save by converting fluorescent to LED bulbs?

Moving from fluorescent to LED lights can result in 30 to 70% savings in energy costs.

Let’s say your current lighting energy costs amount to $10,000  per year.

By switching to LED, you stand to save at least $3,000 every year.

If you’re running a commercial or industrial facility that requires high bay lighting all day and night, switching to LED high bay lights can cut the lighting costs by half.

30. How to choose the best LED replacement for fluorescent lights?

The LED fluorescent replacement lamps to buy come down to what fluorescent lights you’re replacing.

You have to ensure that the fluorescent LED replacement lights you get will fit in the existing fixture.

In the next section, let’s take a look at the factors to consider depending on whether you’re replacing fluorescent tube lights or CFL bulbs.

31. How to choose the right LED fluorescent replacement tubes?

Fluorescent tube types and sizes 
Fluorescent tube types and sizes

Type of Tube

For plug and play or ballast bypass replacement of T8, T10, or T12 fluorescent light tubes, opt for T8 LED tube lights.

If you want to replace T8, T10, or T12 fluorescent tubes with T5 LED lights, you will have to replace the entire fixture.

Ballast Compatibility

With Type A LED lights replacing fluorescent tubes, be sure to check what kind of ballast exists in your fluorescent fixture.

Older lights feature magnetic ballasts while newer fluorescent lights feature electronic ballast.

You can switch off the power supply and open the fixture to see what kind of ballast you have in there.

When buying the fluorescent bulb LED replacement, be sure to check the ballast compatibility specs.

Length

Both fluorescent and LED tube lights come in a wide range of sizes including 2ft, 3ft, 4ft, 5ft, 6ft, and 8ft.

The LED lights replacing fluorescent tubes should be of the same length as the fluorescent tube it’s replacing.

Base and Pin Type

LED tubes come in duo pin and single pin configurations so it’s important to make sure the LED lights replacing fluorescent tubes are compatible.

As for base type, T12 and T8 tubes have G13 bases while T5 tubes have a G5 base.

Sockets

Most LED lights replacing fluorescent tubes are single end powered and require non shunted sockets.

Fluorescent fixtures, on the hand, can have shunted or non shunted tombstones/sockets.

If the existing sockets in your fixtures are shunted, you will have to purchase new sockets.

Alternatively, you can look for double end powered LED lamps that can work with either types of sockets.

Single pin LED tubes
Single pin LED tubes

32. How to choose LED replacement lights for compact fluorescent lamps?

When replacing CFLs with LED lamps, pay attention to the following specs:

Socket

Most CFL lamps use pin type sockets while LED PL lamps use screw type or thread sockets.

If your CFLs use a pin type base, you can purchase a pin-to-screw type converter that will allow you to install LED bulbs.

Pin Type

Compact fluorescent bulbs that use pin sockets can have a 2-pin or 4-pin base.

2-pin CFLs use a magnetic ballast while 4-pin CFLs feature electronic ballasts.

The LED PL lamps you but should have the same pin configuration and base type (G4 or G3) as the CFL bulb.

Type of Bulb

The different types of compact fluorescent lamps include:

  • Single Tube (PL)
  • Double Tube (Quad)
  • Triple Tube (Triple)
  • Single Tube Long (aka PLL)

Mounting Orientation

Replacing a CFL lamp also requires that you consider whether the lamp is mounted vertically or horizontally.

For example downlight lamps are vertical lamps and are installed where the base is facing downward.

4-Pin Base LED CFL replacement bulbs
4-Pin Base LED CFL replacement bulbs

33. What LED wattage equivalent to get?

When replacing fluorescent lights with LED, the equivalent LED wattage to deliver the same light level as the fluorescent light will be way lower.

To illustrate this, here are the incandescent, fluorescent, and approximate LED wattage equivalents for the most common bulbs:

Incandescent    Fluorescent     LED

40 W                  9 W                   5W

60 W                  13 W                 6W

100W                 23 W                19W

The good thing is that most LED light manufacturers will indicate the equivalent fluorescent wattage their lights are designed to replace.

LED vs CFL vs incandescent bulbs
LED vs CFL vs incandescent bulbs

34. What other considerations should I make in order to choose the best LED replacement for fluorescent lights?

Color Temperature

The color temperature refers to the appearance of the light emitted by a lamp. It’s indicated in Kelvin (K).

LED lights come in a whole spectrum of light colors ranging from warm white to cool white.

  • 2,700-3,000K: This is a soft/warm white light and the most flattering light in bathrooms.
  • 3,500-4,100K: Bright/cool white light.
  • 5,000-6,500K: Daylight-like light that’s ideal in commercial and industrial facilities to boost alertness and productivity.

Dimming capability

If you intend to use the light with lighting control systems, choose dimmable LED replacement for fluorescent.

If you’re replacing a dimmable CFL light, find out whether the current dinner switch will work with the new dimmable LED light.

Certifications

Look for certification by trustworthy third-party organizations such as UL and ETL. LED lights bearing DLC-rated LED lights are eligible to receive rebates.

Build Quality

Look for high-quality LED lights made of high-quality materials and components. Such lights should be backed by at least a 3 years warranty.

35. How to change fluorescent lights to LEDs?

There are three ways of converting fluorescent lights to LED:

36. Can I replace fluorescent lights LED lights on my own?

If you’re simply replacing the tube or bulb, you can do this on your own.

Type B LED replacement for fluorescent, however, entails disconnecting the ballast from the circuit and direct wiring the light. This can present an electrocution hazard.

Unless you’re knowledgeable and comfortable handling electrical wiring, it’s recommended to hire a qualified electrician to handle the conversion.

37. How to put LED bulbs in fluorescent fixtures?

If using Type A LED replacement for fluorescent lights, simply remove the old fluorescent lamp and pop in the new LED lamp in its place.

When using Type B LED lights where the ballast had to be bypassed, you will need to direct wire the replacement LED tubes or bulbs to the line voltage.

38. Do LED lights require a ballast and starter?

LED lights replacing fluorescent tubes do not need a ballast or choke to get them started or regulate the voltage and current.

Instead, they rely on an internal or remote driver.

However, Type A LED replacements for fluorescent lights are designed to work with fluorescent ballasts.

LED lamps also do not require a starter. Still, it’s required in a fluorescent fixture in order to complete the circuit.

39. I need to remove the ballast to use a fluorescent bulb LED replacement?

If you’re installing a type B LED replacement for fluorescent lights, you will have to disconnect the ballast from the circuit and remove it from the fixture.

Type A LED lamps are designed to operate with the ballast in place so you shouldn’t remove the ballast when performing a plug and play tube or bulb replacement.

40. How to bypass the ballast when converting fluorescent lights to LED?

Ballast Bypass wiring diagram
Ballast Bypass wiring diagram
  1. First off, cut off the power supply to the fixture by turning off the circuit breaker.
  2. Open the fixture
  3. Cut the input and output wires going into and coming out of the ballast.
  4. Remove the ballast.
  5. Connect the hot black wire to the red wires and the white neutral wire to the blue wires.
  6. Make sure to follow the wiring diagram that’s provided with the replacement light.
  7. You can then direct wire the new fluorescent bulb LED replacement to the line voltage.

41. What to do with old or broken down fluorescent bulbs?

You shouldn’t throw old or broken fluorescent tubes or CFL bulbs with your general waste.

Because fluorescent lamps contain Mercury, they have special disposal procedures.

You should take them to the specialised recycling facility in your area.

Final Word

Fluorescent lights were once the go to lights for energy efficiency.

However, they have been overtaken by LED lights in all aspects from energy efficiency to the expected lifespan.

LED lights replacing fluorescent tubes and bulbs is now the norm in residential spaces as well as commercial and industrial facilities.

Converting fluorescent lights to LED will bring your electricity bill and also cut down on greenhouse emissions.

Armed with the information in this LED replacement for fluorescent guide, you should be able to change fluorescent lights to LED and reap maximum benefits.

VST lighting has been in the lighting industry for more than a decade. We provide high quality LED replacement for fluorescent lights at affordable prices.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us whether you have a question or would like to request a quote!

Send Your Inquiry Today

    Scroll to Top

    Get a Quick Quote!

    x