
T5 fluorescent tubes with a length of approximately 85 centimeters are commonly found in older fixtures, often in offices, shops, and industrial environments. These slim fluorescent lamps, recognized by their G5 socket and 16 mm diameter, are known for their compact size and efficient light output.
Replacing traditional 85 cm T5 fluorescent tubes with LED versions offers a number of significant benefits, both technically and financially. These advantages make the switch attractive for facility managers and installers:
The term '85 cm T5 fluorescent tube' generally refers to a specific length corresponding to certain wattages in original T5 High Efficiency (HE) or High Output (HO) tubes. When replacing, it is important to choose the right LED version that matches the existing situation in length and light intensity.
Type of Original T5 Tube | Typical Length (mm) | Usual Wattage | Recommended LED Alternative |
---|---|---|---|
T5 HE (High Efficiency) | 849 | 21W or 28W | LED T5 tube with corresponding lumen output and a length of approximately 849mm. |
T5 HO (High Output) | 849 | 35W or 39W | LED T5 tube with higher lumen output, matching the 849mm length. |
When purchasing an LED replacement, always check the wattage the LED tube is designed to replace, as well as the actual length. These are usually clearly stated in the product specifications.
For technicians, it is essential to know the best way to switch to LED T5 tubes, depending on the type of fixture already installed. T5 fixtures use an electronic ballast (HF ballast), which differs from T8 fixtures that can also function with a conventional (EM) ballast.
Most T5 LED tubes are designed to work directly with the existing electronic ballast (HF ballast) in the fixture (Type A LED tubes). This makes installation relatively straightforward, similar to replacing an old lamp:
Always check the compatibility of the LED tube with the specific ballast in the fixture. Consult the product manual for the LED tube for guidance.
Some T5 LED tubes are suitable for direct connection to mains power (Type B LED tubes), where the electronic ballast is removed from the fixture. This can result in slightly higher energy efficiency and eliminates the need to replace a ballast in the future. This method requires rewiring the fixture and is generally a task for a qualified electrician. There are 'single-ended' (power supplied to one end) and 'dual-ended' (power supplied to both ends) variants available; make sure to use the type required by the LED tube.
To make an informed decision when purchasing LED T5 tubes, it is important to consider other technical specifications in addition to length and wattage:
T5 fluorescent tubes, and now the LED versions, are widely used in situations where uniform and efficient lighting over a large area is needed:
Old T5 fluorescent lamps, like other fluorescent lights, contain a small amount of mercury. It is important not to throw them in with regular waste. Take them to a municipal collection point for small chemical waste or to special collection locations for lighting waste. This helps with proper recycling and prevents harmful substances from entering the environment.