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Fluorescent tube light bulbs

(1221 products available)

About fluorescent tube light bulbs

Types of fluorescent tube light bulbs

Fluorescent tube light bulbs come in different types, and each has unique characteristics and applications. Here are some of them:

  • Standard Straight Tubes:

    These tubes are the most common and are available in T12, T8, and T5 sizes. The number indicates the diameter of the tube in eights of an inch, so a T12 tube is 12/8 inches wide. T8 and T5 are smaller and more energy-efficient than T12. T8 tubes are typically used in offices, schools, and commercial spaces. In contrast, T5 tubes are used in more modern and specialized settings, such as gyms and high-tech offices.

  • Compact Fluorescent Lights:

    These tubes are smaller versions of the straight tubes and are designed to fit into compact fixtures. They are available in both T4 and T3 sizes. These tubes are energy-saving alternatives to incandescent bulbs and are commonly used in residential and commercial spaces.

  • U-Shaped and Circular Fluorescent Lights:

    These tubes are curved in a U-shape or circular shape and are used in specific fixtures such as overhead lighting in garages, workshops, and some decorative lighting. They come in different sizes and wattages. U-shaped tubes are typically T12 or T8, while circular tubes are more commonly T9.

  • High-Output Fluorescent Lights:

    These tubes provide high light output and are used in applications requiring intense illumination, such as industrial settings and commercial refrigerators. They are generally T5 tubes and are characterized by their blue end caps.

  • Specialty Fluorescent Tubes:

    These are designed for specific applications, such as grow lights for plants, black lights, and insect trap lights. They come in various sizes and configurations depending on the application.

  • LED Tubes:

    While not traditional fluorescent tubes, LED tubes are increasingly replacing fluorescent technology in commercial and residential lighting. They offer higher energy efficiency, longer lifespan, and various color temperatures. LED tubes are typically T8 and T5 and can be installed in fluorescent fixtures with simple modifications.

Features and Functions of Fluorescent Tube Light Bulbs

Fluorescent light bulbs have different features and functions. Some of their features include the following:

  • Tube size: Fluorescent tubes are available in different sizes, such as 2, 4, and 8 ft. The size of the tube determines its use in different applications.
  • Diameter: The diameter of the tube can be 1, 2, or 3 inches. The diameter affects the amount of light emitted.
  • Color temperature: Fluorescent tubes have different color temperatures, ranging from 2700K to 6500K. This indicates whether the light is warm or cool.
  • Lifespan: These tubes have a lifespan of 7,000 to 15,000 hours. This shows the durability of these light sources.
  • Ballast compatibility: Fluorescent tubes require a ballast to regulate the current. They are classified as electromagnetic and electronic ballasts.
  • Color rendering index: The CRI is between 60 and 90. It indicates how the tube renders color concerning natural light.
  • Starting time: Fluorescent tubes take 0.5 to 3 seconds to start, depending on the type of tube.
  • Wattage: Fluorescent tubes come in different wattages, such as 15, 30, 40, and 58 watts. The wattage indicates the amount of power consumed by the tube.

The fluorescent tube also has different functions. They include:

  • Ambient lighting: Ambient lighting is also known as general lighting. It provides a uniform distribution of light in a room. This helps to illuminate the space, making it suitable for different tasks.
  • Task lighting: Task lighting helps to illuminate specific areas where tasks are performed. This is important in offices and other workstations.
  • Accent lighting: Some fluorescent tubes can be used as accent lighting. This highlights artwork, architectural features, or other objects in a room.
  • Recessed lighting: Fluorescent tubes can fit in recessed lighting fixtures. These are installed in ceilings or walls for a subtle illumination.
  • Under-cabinet lighting: Slim fluorescent tubes can be fitted under cabinets in kitchens and offices. This illuminates the workspace without interfering with the cabinet structure.
  • Emergency lighting: Some fluorescent tubes are used for emergency lighting in case of power failure. This helps with evacuation in emergency situations.
  • Decorative lighting: Other fluorescent tubes have a decorative function. They are used in neon signs, party lighting, and other decorative fixtures.

Scenarios of fluorescent tube light bulbs

Fluorescent tube light bulbs are known for their energy efficiency and long-lasting capabilities. They are widely used in various settings. Here are some common usage scenarios:

  • Commercial and Office Spaces

    These tubes provide consistent and bright lighting. This enhances productivity in workspaces. They are often used in:

    - Conference rooms

    - Reception areas

    - Hallways

    - Cubicles

  • Retail Stores

    Fluorescent tubes illuminate merchandise. This makes it more appealing to customers. The different color temperatures are tailored to highlight specific products. These retail areas utilize the lights:

    - Clothing stores

    - Supermarkets

    - Electronics shops

    - Jewelry stores

  • Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities

    Bright and clean light is crucial in medical settings. It aids examination, treatment, and healing. These tubes are used in:

    - Patient rooms

    - Operating theatres

    - Clinics

    - Laboratories

  • Educational Institutions

    These lights create a conducive learning environment in schools and universities. They are used in classrooms, libraries, and administrative offices.

  • Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities

    They offer bright and even illumination. This is necessary for tasks requiring precision in manufacturing plants, warehouses, and workshops.

  • Parking Garages and Exterior Lighting

    Fluorescent tubes are installed in covered parking areas. They improve safety and visibility. Additionally, they can be used for outdoor applications such as signage and building lighting.

  • Residential Settings

    Though less common in homes, these lights can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, and utility spaces. They provide bright and efficient lighting for daily tasks.

  • Specialized Applications

    Some sectors require specific lighting solutions. The fluorescent tubes are tailored for such scenarios. For instance, agricultural settings use them to promote plant growth. Also, they offer UV lighting for reptiles and other pets.

How to Choose fluorescent tube light bulbs

The following are some of the factors that should be considered before buying fluorescent tube light bulbs.

  • Energy efficiency

    Fluorescent tube light bulbs are known to be energy efficient when compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. However, it is important to check the ballast and fixture to ensure that it is compatible with energy-efficient bulbs.

  • Length and diameter

    Fluorescent tubes come in different sizes and diameters. It is important to know the size of the tube that needs to be replaced. The T5 tube is the smallest and has a diameter of 16mm. The T8 tube has a diameter of 26mm and is commonly used in residential and commercial areas. The T12 tube has a diameter of 38mm and is used where brightness is more important than efficiency. Knowing the size of the tube makes it easier to purchase a product that will fit into existing hardware.

  • Lumens and wattage

    Lumens is a measure of light output, while wattage measures power consumption. When choosing a fluorescent tube, it is important to consider the lumens and wattage. A tube with high lumens and low wattage is more efficient and consumes less power.

  • Color temperature and CRI

    The color temperature of a fluorescent tube is measured in Kelvins. A tube with a color temperature of 3000K is warm, while one with a color temperature of 6000K is cool. The color temperature affects the ambiance of a room. A tube with a temperature of 4000K is neutral and can be used in most rooms. The CRI measures the ability of a light source to reproduce colors accurately. A tube with a CRI of 80 or more is good for residential areas.

  • Ballast compatibility

    Fluorescent tubes require a ballast to regulate current and control voltage. The ballast can be electronic or magnetic. An electronic ballast is more efficient and produces less noise. It is important to check the ballast before buying a tube to ensure that it is compatible.

  • Brand reputation and reviews

    Before buying a fluorescent tube light, it is important to research the manufacturer to know if it produces high-quality products. Read reviews from previous customers to know if they were satisfied with the product.

Fluorescent Tube Light Bulbs Q & A

Q1: What are the disadvantages of tube lights?

A1: Tube lights have some disadvantages. For example, they take a longer time to warm up and start emitting light. Also, they produce blue light which can cause eye strain and fatigue. Sometimes, tube lights flicker and this can be annoying especially when they are being used in working areas. They also contain mercury, a hazardous substance that needs to be handled with care when the tube light is broken.

Q2: How does one maintain fluorescent tube lights?

A2: To keep the tube lights in good working condition, clean them regularly to remove dirt and dust that may have accumulated over time. Properly install the tubes to prevent damage and replace any worn-out ballast. Users should also replace fluorescent tubes that are defective or burnt out.

Q3: Do fluorescent lights use more energy than LED lights?

A3: Although fluorescent lights use less energy than incandescent lights, they do not use less energy than LED lights. This is because LED lights convert most of their energy into light and do not waste it as heat. As a result, LED lights are more energy efficient than fluorescent lights and even more than incandescent lights.

Q4: How does one dispose of a tube bulb?

A4: Disposal of a fluorescent tube must be done properly because it contains mercury, which is harmful to one’s health and the environment. Most retailers and manufacturers offer recycling programs that make it easy to return burnt-out tubes for recycling. Users should check local regulations to find out the recommended disposal methods for tube lights in their areas.