T8 vs T12, and installation questions answered.
FAQ
Linear Tube Lights FAQs
Do LED tube lights need a ballast?
It depends on the type. Type A (plug-and-play) LED tubes use your existing fluorescent ballast — no rewiring needed. Type B (ballast bypass) LED tubes require removing the ballast and wiring directly to line voltage, but last longer since there's no ballast to fail. Type AB (hybrid) tubes work both ways: install plug-and-play now, rewire later if the ballast dies.
How do I know if I have a T8 or a T12 bulb, and are they interchangeable?
The number on a T8 (1-inch) or T12 (1.5-inch) bulb simply refers to its diameter. When upgrading to LED, they are completely interchangeable because both use the exact same G13 bi-pin base. This means you can easily install a modern, slimmer T8 LED tube into your old T12 fixture, provided you follow the new LED's specific plug-and-play or ballast-bypass instructions.
How much energy do LED tube lights save compared to fluorescent?
LED tubes use 40–50% less energy than equivalent fluorescent tubes. A standard 32W T8 fluorescent is replaced by a 15W LED tube delivering the same 2,200–2,600 lumens. Over a 50,000-hour lifespan, that's roughly half the electricity cost — plus LED tubes contain no mercury and require no ballast maintenance.