Replace T8 Fluorescent Lamps with T8 Led Tubes

For decades now, the T8 fluorescent has dominated our homes and our workplaces as the preferred form of lighting. Its dominance is due to the fact it produces quality light and it is very efficient. They also last for longer than its immediate alternatives. Its dominance is about to lessen though. T8 LED tube is the new player in the lighting arena and it bears a lot of promises. Besides being more efficient than the T8 fluorescent, it is mercury free, easier to control and is dimmable.

Installation guide for T8 LED tubes

• Safety first

Switch off the electricity. Put “lockout” tag to ensure to ensure no one turns it back up. Put a note close to the circuit breaker explaining that you are working on a fixture within the building and so the breaker should be kept off until you complete the task. Also, wear eye protection to guard your eyes against harm should an old fluorescent tube break while you are removing it. It is also important that you confirm your source supplies between 120V and 240V.

• Remove the bulbs and the ballast

Some fluorescent lamps are covered using plastic or glass fixtures. Remove the fixture to access and remove the bulb. Take care not to damage it as it is very fragile. Remove the cover of the housing (tombstones) to reach the ballast. Undo any wires leading into and out of the ballast and unscrew it from the housing assembly. Ensure to leave enough of the neutral and live wires for later rewiring. Dispose of the bulb and the ballast responsibly.

• Rewire the unit

Connect the wires correctly. To achieve this, it’s advisable that you follow the instructions on the box. You can either use connectors or just twist the wires together. In many installations, the wires usually consist of two yellow on the left, two red and two blue on the right. Put together all the wires from one side with one lead from the incoming circuit wires and those from the other side with the other lead. However, it is important to note that some LED has both the hot and the neutral on one end of the connection. Therefore, you need to refer to the manufacturer’s instruction if you are not sure of the configuration.

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