Fluorescent T8 lamps, which were the standard for new construction in the U.S. for years, now face competition from LED T8 lamps and LED fixtures.
Both options provide benefits; however, the best lighting solution depends on a number of factors such as the light output, cost, the operational life of the lamp and more. You have to consider the different attributes of each option to determine which is appropriate for your project and application.
The Benefits of Fluorescent T8
The fluorescent T8 lamp is standard in the U.S. and is available in various wattages and lumen outputs as well as in linear and U-shaped designs. These lamps have been used in new construction for decades and for good reason—they provide high quality light at a cost-efficient price.
Fluorescent T8s have a high lumen per watt ratio, which mean they have a strong light output and provide good color rendering and high efficacy due to rare-earth phosphors. Fluorescent T8s provide more all-around light than LED T8s because they have a 360-degree light emission pattern.
These lamps are also long lasting. High lumen fluorescent T8s are rated up to 42,000 hours and extra long life fluorescent T8s are rated up to 62,000 hours (for 12-hour cycles). These fixtures only lose 8 to 10 percent of their lumens by the end of their rated life.
The Benefits of LED T8
At times, LED T8 lamps can be more efficient than fluorescent T8 lamps. LEDs create little to no ambient heat. Therefore, they contribute to interior temperatures less and may benefit a business’ HVAC system. Other lighting options can increase the surrounding temperature and cause the HVAC system to work more often.
These lamps have a long lifespan—usually starting at approximately 50,000 hours. You can also turn them on and off as often as necessary without affecting their overall life.
When looking at the different applications outside of linear T8 within a space, there are many instances when LED will outperform fluorescent. One example is if the purpose of the fixture is to light a specific object or area, LEDs are a directional light source—they emit light in a 110-degree pattern instead of 360 degrees. This makes them directional-focused by nature.
LED T8s are also usually easily dimmed compared to a fluorescent lamp.
In addition, light from the nonvisible light spectrum causes colors to fade and influences eye fatigue. LEDs don’t emit any nonvisible light. And they are also environmentally friendly and contain no mercury.