How do you convert a T12 fluorescent bulb to a LED?

If you’re converting your existing T12 lamps to LED, you have six options to choose from:

1. Install ballast-bypass linear LED lamps.
2. Install plug-and-play magnetic and electronic ballast-compatible linear LEDs.
3. Install electronic ballast-compatible linear LEDs and a new electronic ballast.

Can you replace a T12 with a T8?

The easiest and lowest price option to replace a T12 is a T8 linear fluorescent. They have become the go-to option for pre-existing T12s. If you still have magnetic ballasts, switching to a T8 will require a ballast swap.

Can you put a T8 LED bulb in a T12 fixture?

T8 LED tubes won’t fall out if you try to install them in a T12 fixture—they’ll fit just fine. This is because T12 fixtures have non-shunted tombstones, exactly what you need for LED tubes. T8 fixtures have shunted tombstones, and those tombstones need to be replaced as part of the conversion to LED.

Can you replace fluorescent tubes with LEDs?

Yes, you can replace fluorescent tubes with LED tubes or LED integrated fixtures. As long as the bulb is compatible with the existing fluorescent ballast in the fixture, you simply remove the fluorescent and replace it with the LED tube light.

Do I need to remove ballast for LED lights?

Since LED lights work on low DC voltage, they need a driver. Most T8 LED tubes do not need a ballast. So, if you are going to install a T8 LED tube light, it will require a ballast bypass unless you choose a ballast compatible T8 LED tube.

How do you bypass the ballast for LED lights?

How to Bypass A Ballast

1. Step 1: Disconnect All Power So There is No Electrical Current.
2. Step 2: Find the Ballast.
3. Step 3: Locate and Cut Only the Hot and Neutral Wires.
4. Step 4: Cut the Socket Lead Wires.
5. Step 5: Remove the Ballast (if you wish)
6. Step 6: Connect the Wires.
7. Step 7: Reattach Any Coverings and Turn On.

How do I know if my fixture is T8 or T12?

If no markings are available, the size in diameter of the tube is the easiest way to determine the type you have installed. T8 tubes are 1-inch in diameter and T12 tubes are 1 1/2 -inch.

Are T12 bulbs being discontinued?

In effect since July 2012, the legislation eliminates nearly all 4-foot T12 lamps, some 4-foot T8 lamps, most 8-foot T12 lamps, and almost all standard halogen PAR38, PAR30 and PAR20 lamps from the market. T12 technology is over 80 years old. Since that time, lamps and bulbs have been developed that just work better.

Should I replace fluorescent with LED?

LED replacement lamps are on average 30% more efficient than their fluorescent counterparts. That means if you are spending $10,000 on your lighting energy costs per year, your bill will be reduced by $3,000 or more, every year that you use the LED bulbs.

Can you bypass ballast for LED lights?

Most T8 LED tubes do not need a ballast. So, if you are going to install a T8 LED tube light, it will require a ballast bypass unless you choose a ballast compatible T8 LED tube.

Will LED bulbs work if ballast is bad?

BENEFITS OF THE BALLAST BYPASS No matter how new or well maintained your ballasts are, they will all eventually go bad. When an LED bulb does burn out (between 15-20 years in most cases) you simply replace the bulb, which is much more cost-effective and less time consuming than replacing an entire ballast.

Do I need to change the ballast for LED lights?

No LED bulbs require a ballast, although some are engineered to work with an existing ballast. You will find ballast-compatible or “plug-and-play” LEDs that are designed to replace linear fluorescents, compact fluorescents, or HIDs. Incandescent and halogen lamps do not require a ballast.

Is there a replacement for a Philips T12 lamp?

In 2016, we told you about a plug-and-play LED replacement for T12 lamps from Philips. It was called the InstantFit LED tube and it was compatible with old-school magnetic ballasts. For now, that product is discontinued.

How are Philips instantfit T12 LED bulbs installed?

Philips InstantFit T12 LED Tubes. Installs easily with no rewiring. The Philips InstantFit T12 LED Tube (16T12/LED/48-865/UF18/G) is the fast, easy way to replace T12 linear fluorescent bulbs on most light fixtures with rapid start magnetic ballasts.

Which is the best way to convert a T12 to led?

For the easiest and quickest T12 to LED upgrade, the Philips UniversalFit tubes are probably your best bet. These plug right in and work off the existing ballast. When the ballast gives out, swap it for a newer electronic ballast, and the tubes will continue to light your space.

What’s the best LED retrofit option for T12 replacement?

What’s the best LED retrofit option for T12 replacement? If you’re converting your existing T12 lamps to LED, you have six options to choose from: 1. Install ballast-bypass linear LED lamps. Right now, a ballast-bypass is our top LED replacement option for T12 fluorescent tubes. But read carefully, because there are safety concerns.