Converting T12 Lamps To T8 lamps

[tdaug53]

Can I convert a standard 48" 2 lamp T12 Fixture over to the T8 style lamps by changing the ballast to a new electronic style? What would happen if someone just changed the lamps from T12 to T8 and used the old style ballast rated for 2 F40 T12 lamps?

 

[ultramegabob]

low output and pre-mature failure of the lamp.....

 

[iwire]

Can I convert a standard 48" 2 lamp T12 Fixture over to the T8 style lamps by changing the ballast to a new electronic style?

Yes, but sometimes you may have to rewire the sockets and in some cases the sockets may need to be replaced.

 

[LarryFine]

All the T-8 change-overs I've done simply required connecting both wires of each socket together and to its single ballast wire.

 

[iwire]

All the T-8 change-overs I've done simply required connecting both wires of each socket together and to its single ballast wire.

Thats cool.

However of the 5000 or 6000 we did in one building each socket required two independent leads and if the fixture had internally shunted sockets those had to be replaced as well. :smile:

http://content.sylvania.com/app/display.aspx?id=003678756

 

[gar]

090502-2004 EST

tdaug53:

The following may provide you with useful information:
http://www.lrc.rpi.edu/programs/NLPIP/lightinganswers/pdf/view/LAT8.pdf

.

 

[jerrysounds]

Gar, Thanks for the info the you posted. Good to know this stuff.

 

[wasabiian]

That link was a good read, thank you

 

[claytazdaisy]

4ft 2 lamp t8 fixtures are like 13.99 at home depot and the ballast to replace is like 18.99
just swap the whole fixture