Why switch from fluorescent to LED?

LED replacements typically use about 40–50% less energy than the fluorescent tubes they replace, last far longer, turn on instantly at full brightness, and contain no mercury. For most homes and businesses, the upgrade pays for itself in energy and maintenance savings — and in California it helps you stay ahead of Title 20 efficiency rules.

Fluorescent vs. LED at a glance

	Fluorescent (T12/T8/CFL)	LED Replacement
Energy use	Higher	~40–50% lower
Rated life	~20,000 hours	Up to ~50,000 hours
Startup	Flicker / slow warm-up	Instant, full brightness
Mercury	Contains mercury	Mercury-free
Ballast	Always required	Optional (bypass available)
Dimming	Limited / special ballast	Widely available

How to choose the right LED replacement

1. Identify your tube. T12 is 1.5″ wide, T8 is 1″, T5 is 5/8″. Note the length (2-, 4-, or 8-ft) and base (G13 bi-pin for T8/T12, G5 mini bi-pin for T5).
2. Pick the wiring type. Type A (ballast-compatible / plug-and-play) keeps your existing ballast — easiest install. Type B (ballast-bypass / direct-wire) removes the ballast for the most reliable long-term setup. Type C uses an external LED driver.
3. Match brightness & color. Choose lumens to match or beat the old tube, and a color temperature: 3000K (warm), 4000K (neutral), or 5000K (daylight).

Not sure what you have? That is our specialty — send us the tube markings and we will match the exact replacement.

Shop LED replacements by type

• LED Tubes (T8 & T5 fluorescent replacements)
• LED PL Lamps (CFL plug-in replacements)
• LED Panels & Troffers
• LED Bulbs
• Under-Cabinet & LED Tape

Frequently asked questions

Can I replace fluorescent tubes with LED?

Yes. Most fluorescent tubes (T12, T8, T5) and CFLs have a direct LED replacement. You match the size, length, and base, then choose a plug-and-play (keep ballast) or ballast-bypass (direct-wire) LED tube.

Do I need to remove the ballast to install LED tubes?

Not always. Type A (ballast-compatible) LED tubes work with your existing ballast for the easiest install. Type B (ballast-bypass) tubes require removing or bypassing the ballast and wiring line voltage to the sockets — more work up front, but no ballast to fail later.

What is the difference between T8 and T5 LED tubes?

T8 tubes are 1 inch in diameter with a G13 bi-pin base (commonly 4 ft). T5 tubes are 5/8 inch with a smaller G5 base and are often used in slimmer or high-output fixtures. They are not interchangeable — match your existing tube type.

How much energy can LED save compared to fluorescent?

LED tube replacements typically draw about 40–50% less power than the fluorescent tubes they replace, while lasting roughly twice as long, which also cuts replacement and maintenance costs.

Are LED tube replacements legal in California?

Yes. LED tube and CFL replacements meet California Title 20 and federal efficiency standards. It is the inefficient general-service incandescent and some fluorescent products that are being phased out — LED replacements are the compliant path forward.