TL T8 72 cm

Why the 72cm T8 Fluorescent Tube Now Requires an LED Alternative

The production and import of traditional T8 fluorescent tubes have been phased out at the European level as of September 2023. This decision encourages the switch to more sustainable LED alternatives, which are not only more energy efficient but also contribute to a better environment. For users of 72cm fluorescent tubes, this means that replacing them with an LED version is the most logical and cost-effective step.

Benefits of a 72cm LED T8 Tube

• Energy Efficiency: A 72cm LED T8 tube uses significantly less energy than its fluorescent counterpart, leading to a noticeable reduction in operating costs.
• Longer Lifespan: LED technology is known for its impressive lifespan, often up to 50,000 burning hours. This reduces the frequency of replacements and minimizes maintenance.
• No Warm-Up Time: LED lamps provide full light output instantly when switched on, with no flickering or warm-up needed.
• Mercury-Free: Unlike traditional fluorescent tubes, LED tubes contain no harmful mercury, making them a safer choice for both installation and disposal.
• Improved Light Quality: LED T8 tubes often offer more consistent and higher color rendering, improving the overall visual experience.

Direct Replacement: From Traditional 72cm to LED

Replacing a traditional 72cm T8 fluorescent tube with an LED variant is a common procedure, but choosing the right LED is crucial to ensure compatibility and the desired light output. Below you will find an overview of the most common traditional wattages and their LED equivalents for the 72cm length:

Always check the specifications of the LED tube when purchasing, to ensure it is a suitable replacement for your current setup.

Installation: The Proper Approach for 72cm LED T8 Tubes

When switching to LED T8 tubes for your 72cm fixtures, there are two main installation methods. The choice depends on the type of LED tube and the existing fixture.

Plug-and-Play (Type A)

These LED tubes are designed to work directly in fixtures with a (compatible) ballast. Installation is easy: make sure the power is off, remove the old fluorescent tube, and insert the new LED T8 tube. If the fixture has a starter, replace it with the supplied LED starter. This method is user-friendly and requires no wiring modifications.

Ballast Removal (Type B)

For increased energy efficiency and to eliminate the effect of an aging ballast, you can choose LED tubes that operate directly on mains voltage. This requires removing the existing ballast from the fixture and adjusting the wiring. This installation method, also known as 'ballast bypass' or 'direct drive,' should be performed by someone with sufficient electrical knowledge to ensure safety and proper operation. Both 'single-ended' (power supply on one end) and 'dual-ended' (power supply on both ends) versions are available.

Some LED T8 tubes are 'universal' (Type A/B Hybrid), meaning they are compatible with both installation methods, offering flexibility. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with the LED tube.

Key Technical Aspects for 72cm LED T8

Besides length and installation method, there are other technical specifications that influence the performance and suitability of a 72cm LED T8 tube:

• Luminous Output (Lumen): The lumen value indicates the brightness of the lamp. For a 72cm LED T8 tube, you can generally expect light output equivalent to or better than the traditional 22W/23W fluorescent tube, with lower energy consumption.
• Light Color (Kelvin): The color temperature, expressed in Kelvin (K), determines the atmosphere of the light. Common options for this length include warm white (around 3000K) for a cozy setting and cool white (around 4000K–6500K) for functional applications such as workshops.
• Color Rendering Index (CRI): A high CRI (80 or above) guarantees that colors appear natural under the lamp’s light, enhancing visual quality.
• Dimmability: Not all 72cm LED T8 tubes are dimmable. If dimming is desired, it is important to select a specifically dimmable version and check compatibility with your dimmer.

Applications for 72cm Fluorescent Lighting

The 72cm T8 fluorescent tubes have often been used in specific fixtures where standard lengths such as 60cm or 120cm do not fit. Consider:

• Older fixtures in kitchens and utility rooms.
• Lighting in furniture or under cabinets.
• More compact spaces in garages or hobby rooms where a shorter light source is sufficient.
• Specific industrial or commercial applications designed to fit this size.

Additional Points of Attention

When replacing your 72cm fluorescent tubes, it is recommended to choose products from reputable brands that can guarantee reliability and performance. Also remember that old fluorescent tubes contain mercury and should therefore be responsibly disposed of at a recycling facility. This contributes to sustainable waste management and environmental protection.

Switching to 72cm LED T8 tubes is a thoughtful choice for anyone seeking an energy-efficient, low-maintenance, and high-quality lighting solution suitable for specific fixtures.