What is the difference between a T5 and T8 bulb?

What is the difference between a T5 and T8 bulb?

The major physical difference between T5 and T8 light bulbs is the length and diameter of the tube itself. The T5 tends to be slightly shorter than the T8 tube, and is significantly smaller in diameter. This factor is important to consider when looking at your fixture, because the two tubes are not interchangeable.

Can you use a T5 bulb in a T8 fixture?

T5 lamps cannot replace T12 or T8 lamps because of differences in physical and electrical characteristics. T5 lamps come in different lengths than T8 and T12 lamps. Miniature bi-pin sockets fit T5 lamps, while T8 lamps need medium bi-pin sockets.

Are fluorescent bulbs interchangeable?

Even though the fluorescent light socket is exactly the same for both of them, they cannot operate on the same ballast. So the bottom line is that these are not interchangeable and if you’re going to upgrade from a T12 to a T8 bulb, then you also have to change out the ballast.

What is the difference between a T5 and T8 light bulb?

T5 lamps have a G5 base (bi-pin with 5 mm spacing), while T8 and T12 lamps use a G13 base (bi-pin with 13 mm spacing). Because of a .625-inch bulb diameter, and a mini bi-pin base, the T5 lamp can be used in lower profile areas.

What is the diameter of a T8 fluorescent tube?

It is 5/8 inches (16 mm) in tube diameter. The T8 represents 8/8 inches in diameter (1 inch or 26 mm). Fluorescent tube lengths are expressed in feet, with 8 foot and 4 foot being the most common length of fluorescent bulbs. T8 lighting is most commonly used in more commercial areas and lighting applications:

What are T5 tubes?

T5 tubes are the latest series of fluorescent lamps. They are offered in standard or high-output (HO) options. There are many differences between T5 lamps and T8 or T12 lamps.

What is a linear T5 lamp?

T5 lamps are fluorescent lamps that are 5/8″ of an inch in diameter. This report discusses only linear T5 lamps.