148. Replacing Fluorescent Tubes with T8 LED: Everything You Need to Know

If you've been working under flickering fluorescent tubes or dealing with the constant hum of an old ballast, it might be time to upgrade. The solution? Replacing fluorescent tubes with T8 LED light bulbs, a switch that’s brightening the future of workplaces, garages, schools, warehouses, and just about any building that relies on tube lights.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about replacing fluoro tubes with T8 LED technology. From answering, “What are T8 lights?” to learning about the different installation options, this article will make the transition smooth, safe, and smart.

Why Replace Fluorescent Tubes?

Let’s start with the “why.” While fluorescent lighting fixtures were once the gold standard, they’ve become outdated for several reasons:

• Energy Consumption: T8 LED tubes use about 68% less energy than their fluorescent counterparts.
• Lifespan: LEDs can last up to 50,000 hours or more, far outshining the average fluorescent tube light.
• Flicker-Free & Instant On: No more buzzing, dimming, or warm-up time.
• Mercury-Free: Unlike fluorescent bulbs, LED tubes don’t contain hazardous materials.
  Lower Maintenance: Swap it once and forget about it for years.
  
  

Making the change isn't just about energy savings, it's about cleaner, safer, and more reliable lighting.

Types of LED Tubes: Which One Is Right for You?

When it comes to replacing fluorescent tubes, there’s no one-size-fits-all. The type of LED tube you need depends on your existing fixture, ballast, and how hands-on you’re willing to be during installation.

Here are the four main types:

Type A LED Tube (Plug-and-Play)

These work directly with your existing ballast, especially electronic ballasts. Just remove the fluorescent bulb and insert the LED tube light.

• Pros: Easy install, no rewiring
• Cons: Limited ballast compatibility; ballast failure means replacing both ballast and tube

Type B LED Tube (Ballast Bypass)

These require either removing the ballast entirely or bypassing the ballast  and wiring the LED bulb directly to power. Often referred to as direct-wire LED tubes.

• Pros: Higher efficiency, no future ballast maintenance
• Cons: Requires electrical work and safety precautions

Type A/B (Hybrid)

These offer the best of both worlds; work with an existing ballast or can be ballast bypass wired later.

• Pros: Flexibility, smooth transition over time
• Cons: Higher upfront cost

Type C LED Tubes

These use an external driver instead of a traditional ballast, often found in more advanced lighting control systems or high-end led fixtures.

• Pros: Smart lighting options, dimmable
• Cons: More complex installation, higher cost

Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing Fluorescent Tubes with T8 LED Tubes

Depending on the type of T8 LED tube you choose, the installation process can vary slightly. Below, we’ll walk through the ballast bypass method (also known as Type B), which is one of the most common and efficient long-term solutions for replacing T8 fluorescent tubes.

Safety First: Always turn off power at the circuit breaker, verify with a voltage tester, and follow all local electrical codes. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a licensed electrician.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Head to your circuit breaker and switch off the power to the fixture you'll be working on. Confirm that the power is fully off using a voltage tester before handling any wire.

Step 2: Remove the Fluorescent Tubes

Carefully remove the old T8 fluorescent tube from the fluorescent lighting fixture. Be gentle, fluorescent light bulbs are fragile and contain small amounts of mercury, so proper disposal is essential.

Step 3: Open the Fixture and Remove the Ballast

Remove the cover on your light fixture to expose the internal wiring. Locate the fluorescent light ballast. This could be either a magnetic ballast or an electronic ballast. Disconnect and completely remove it from the fixture.

If you’re working with a magnetic ballast, you might also see a starter attached. Remove this as well. It’s not needed for T8 LED tubes.

Step 4: Rewire for T8 LED Tubes

Connect your building’s line and neutral wires directly to the lamp holders (also called tombstones) in the existing fixture, following the wiring diagram provided with your T8 LED tubes. The exact configuration will depend on whether you’re using single-ended or double-ended tubes:

• Single-ended tubes: Power is only connected to one end.

• Double-ended tubes: Power flows through both ends.
  
  

Use wire nuts to cap off any unused wires, and double-check that all connections are secure and properly insulated.

Step 5: Install the T8 LED Tube

Insert the new T8 LED tube light into the fixture’s sockets. Be sure it clicks into place and is properly aligned with the powered ends, especially important for single-ended tubes.

Step 6: Test Your New T8 LED Tubes

Switch the circuit breaker back on and power up your LED fixture. If installed correctly, your T8 LED tube will light up instantly, no light flicker, no hum, just clean, efficient light.

What About Retrofit Kits?

If your fluorescent lighting fixture is outdated or damaged, retrofit kits are an easy way to upgrade without a full replacement. These kits typically include everything needed to modify an existing fixture to support LED technology, from brackets to new sockets.

Great for commercial buildings, warehouses, schools, and hospitals, retrofit kits save time and reduce waste.

The Long-Term Benefits of LED

By replacing fluorescent tubes with LED tube lights, you’re setting your space up for years of success. Let’s recap the biggest advantages:

• Lower Operating Costs
• Reduced Maintenance
• Eco-Friendly (No Mercury)
• Cleaner, Brighter Illumination
• Compatible with Smart Lighting Systems

Whether you're upgrading office light bulbs, warehouse fixtures, wall packs, or even garage lighting, LED technology is the way forward.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Swapping out fluorescent tubes for T8 LED tubes might seem like a small step, but it’s a leap toward better efficiency, brighter workspaces, and more reliable lighting.

Whether you’re a business owner, facilities manager, or hands-on DIYer, investing in LED tube lights will pay dividends in energy savings and peace of mind.

Need help selecting the right tube or figuring out the wiring? Reach out to the team at OEO Energy Solutions. We’ll guide you to the perfect lighting solution, from retrofit kits to LED fixtures and everything in between.