Philips LED G5 MASTER LEDtube High Efficiency 600mm
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7W
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1050lm
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4000K
17,95
TL T5 55 cm
T5 fluorescent tubes, with a diameter of 16 millimeters and a G5 fitting, have long been known for their slim design and high light output. The 55cm variant is a common size, often used in compact fixtures, kitchen lighting, and various professional environments. Although traditional T5 fluorescent lamps used to be reliable, the market is now shifting completely toward sustainable and energy-efficient LED alternatives.
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The advantages of 55cm T5 LED tubes over traditional fluorescent tubes
Replacing your existing 55cm T5 fluorescent tubes with LED variants offers immediate and tangible benefits. This technological advancement translates into significant savings and an improved user experience.
An overview of the main advantages:
- Lower energy costs: A 55cm LED T5 tube consumes up to 70% less power than a traditional T5 of the same length. For example, an 8 Watt LED tube can replace a 14 Watt fluorescent lamp, resulting in immediate savings on your energy bill. As a result, your investment in LED pays for itself quickly.
- Longer lifespan: LED T5 tubes last much longer—typically 50,000 operating hours or more. This is up to ten times longer than the average lifespan of traditional fluorescent tubes. This considerably reduces replacement frequency and maintenance costs, especially in larger installations.
- Instant bright light: LED lamps provide full brightness immediately, with no warm-up time or annoying flicker—a common issue in older fluorescent fixtures. This contributes to a more comfortable and productive environment.
- Mercury-free: Unlike traditional fluorescent lamps, LED T5 tubes contain no mercury or other harmful substances, making them a more environmentally friendly choice and simplifying recycling.
- Improved light quality: LED technology offers a high Color Rendering Index (CRI), ensuring that colors appear more natural under the lamp’s light. This is important in areas where color accuracy matters.
Choosing the right 55cm T5 LED tube: technical specifications
The 55cm T5 LED tubes are specifically designed to replace traditional 14 Watt T5 tubes, and in some cases, the 24 Watt High Output (HO) versions. The actual length of these lamps is typically 549mm, including the pins. Always pay attention to the "replaces wattage" or "equivalent wattage" indicated on the packaging to ensure you choose the right LED tube that fits your existing fixture.
Overview of common 55cm T5 lamps and LED alternatives
| Type of lamp (55cm) | Traditional wattage | LED equivalent wattage | Estimated Lumens (LED) |
|---|---|---|---|
| T5 fluorescent (High Efficiency - HE) | 14W | 8W | 1000 - 1200 lm |
| T5 fluorescent (High Output - HO) | 24W | 10W | 1500 - 1700 lm |
Installation of 55cm T5 LED tubes: important points for the installer
When replacing T5 fluorescent tubes with LED variants, there are two main installation methods. It’s essential to know which type of ballast your current fixture has, as this determines the choice of LED tube. Traditional T5 fixtures usually contain an electronic high-frequency (HF) ballast and do not have a separate starter.
Installation types
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Type A: Ballast-compatible (Plug & Play)
These LED T5 tubes work directly with the existing electronic ballast in your fixture. Installation is simple: switch off the power, remove the old T5 fluorescent tube, and insert the new LED tube. No rewiring is needed. Always check the compatibility list of the LED tube with the specific type of ballast in your fixture, as not all ballasts are compatible with all LED tubes.
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Type B: Direct to mains power (Ballast Bypass)
With this method, the existing ballast is removed from the fixture and the wiring is adjusted so that the LED tube works directly on 230V mains power. This method eliminates the ballast as a possible source of malfunction and delivers the highest energy efficiency. Although this requires more work, it’s a sustainable solution. Electrical knowledge is required for this modification, and it is strongly recommended to hire a qualified electrician to ensure safety and prevent errors.
Some T5 LED tubes are 'universal' and can be installed using either method. Always read the manufacturer's instructions carefully regarding the specific installation procedure for the chosen product.
The right light color and output for your 55cm T5 LED tube
The choice of light color, expressed in Kelvin (K), and light output (Lumens) determines the atmosphere and functionality of lighting in your space. Depending on the application, you can choose the most suitable variant.
Light colors and their applications
- Warm white (3000K): This light color creates a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. Suitable for general areas such as corridors, canteens, changing rooms, and reception areas.
- Neutral white (4000K): Offers bright and functional light that enhances concentration. Often used in offices, meeting rooms, showrooms, kitchens, and schools.
- Daylight white (6000K-6500K): This cooler light color simulates natural daylight and is ideal for areas where detail and color accuracy are very important. Consider workshops, laboratories, print shops, and healthcare facilities.
Pay attention to the number of lumens for light output. A higher lumen value means more light. Where a 14W T5 fluorescent tube typically delivered about 1,000 lumens, the LED replacements provide a similar or higher output with less wattage, often producing more directional light.
Frequently asked questions about 55cm T5 LED tubes
What should I do if my T5 fluorescent tube is broken?
If a traditional T5 fluorescent tube is defective, it must be disposed of at a certified recycling center due to the presence of mercury. This is also a good opportunity to consider switching to a 55cm LED T5 tube, especially with the legislative phase-out of fluorescent lamps.
Can a 55cm T5 LED tube be dimmed?
Not all 55cm T5 LED tubes are dimmable. If dimming is desired, be sure to specifically look for dimmable LED T5 tubes and check if they are compatible with the existing or new LED dimmer.
Are there 55cm T5 LED tubes with an emergency power function?
There are T5 LED tubes suitable for fixtures with an emergency power unit or that have an integrated emergency power supply. This is especially relevant in buildings where emergency lighting is mandatory.
What is the lifespan of a 55cm T5 LED tube in an industrial environment?
The stated lifespan of LED T5 tubes (typically 50,000 hours) is an average under optimal conditions. In environments with frequent switching, high temperatures, or significant vibrations, the lifespan may be somewhat shorter, though LEDs are much more resistant to these factors than traditional fluorescent lamps. Pay attention to the fixture’s IP rating for moist or dusty environments.