can T8 FL lights in house be changed to T5?

**wllm33** · 15th Mar 2010, 01:11

is it true that the T5 daylight is brighter than the T8 FL light?
if so, can I change from T8 to T5 for house use without any other alteration?
Also, will T5 be more energy efficient?
thanks

**tawauboy** · 15th Mar 2010, 10:05

if you are comparing tubes of similar wattage then t5 is brighter than t8.

unfortunately, you cannot convert t8 to t5 without any modifications. t5 requires electronic ballast, has smaller dimensions and uses smaller pin base. so you'll need a conversion kit.

**felix_fx2** · 15th Mar 2010, 21:23

Some LFS do offer to change from T8 to T5, but at the cost you may wish to directly purchase a T5 set if your T8 set is not brand new.

I asked before at NA, but later on bought a 2nd handed unit from the marketplace instead.

**wllm33** · 15th Mar 2010, 21:42

Originally Posted by tawauboy

if you are comparing tubes of similar wattage then t5 is brighter than t8.

unfortunately, you cannot convert t8 to t5 without any modifications. t5 requires electronic ballast, has smaller dimensions and uses smaller pin base. so you'll need a conversion kit.

oh, sorry forgot to ellaborate.
actually what i wanted to find out is to replace the entire set (tube and the casing , like a one to one replacement, the entire set), and just connect them like daisy chain , since my false ceiling has a circular chain of T8, AND one wall on/off switch.

if the T5 are brighter , then will be worth the cost involve, one to one change, but overall, will it eventually save on the energy, watt for watt?
thanks everyone for the advice.

**tawauboy** · 15th Mar 2010, 21:56

you can replace your t8 with t5; one-for-one. it is important to take note of the "live" and "neutral" connections. if you are unsure, get a licensed electrician to do it.

it will definitely save electricity. whether it worthwhile depends on how long you switch on you lights everyday. if it is only 2-4 hours, it is not worth the cost involved.

**felix_fx2** · 15th Mar 2010, 22:52

Hi wllm33,

one of the office i work at are using T5, their brighter and if you think about changing all your house lights that operate more then 4 hours it will save you money in the long run. But if your keen on changing them look at the options that are easier to install (if your intending to Do the electrical wiring yourself, else get a licensed person to do it.)

I misunderstood you intention and thought it was for your tank lights.