T8 Bulb T12 Fixture

As we describe in our how to article t8 and t12 feature the same g13 bi pin connector.

T8 bulb t12 fixture.

The t12 is 1 5 inches in diameter and the t8 is 1 inch in diameter. Converting a t12 fixture into a t8 fixture can be easily done with a retrofit conversion kit. In an effort to make led tube lights compatible with the internal dimensions of most fixtures you will find that most led tube lights feature a t8 or 1 inch diameter. The t12 runs on a magnetic ballast and a t8 operates on an electronic ballast.

A t12 ballast is a reference that essentially refers to the size of the tube of the florescent bulb that is being used. Most kits come with all material needed to convert a 4 foot or 8 foot t12 light fixture and complete instructions which vary by fixture size and lamp count. T8 fluorescent bulbs are just as bright as the t12 and much more economical. The t12 fixtures tended to use magnetic ballasts.

We have both a quick answer and a long one. The main difference between t8 and t12 tubes is the tube s diameter. Any t8 led tube will also fit a t12 fluorescent fixture. The t8 models cost almost half of the t12.

When posing the question can a t8 light work on a t12 ballast the short answer is no. These are the basic different characteristics of each different fluorescent lamp type that is most commonly used in offices and commercial industrial lighting all across the world. T12 tubes are 1 5 in diameter while t8s are just one inch. Feit electric 6 in.

T12 vs t8 fluorescent tubes. The t12 is an older generation fluorescent bulb that generates light through electromagnetic induction which is considered less efficient method of creating light compared to that of newer electronic based circuits. T12 tubes pull 40 watts and are frequently being replaced with lower wattage t8 tubes which operate on 32 watts. The other common lamps are the larger t8 eight eighths inch 1 and t12 twelve eights inch 1 tubes.

The t8 tubes are slightly smaller at 1 inch in diameter compared to the 1 5 inch diameter of t12 tubes. T8 tubes are simply 1 inch in diameter versus the 1 5 inch diameter of t12 tubes. Kits are readily available and can be installed with a few basic electrical tools.