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How to Replace a Fluorescent Tube with LED

How to Replace a Fluorescent Tube with LED

A Step-by-Step Guide to Safer, Brighter, and More Efficient Lighting

Switching from fluorescent to LED tubes is one of the easiest ways to save energy, reduce maintenance, and improve light quality. But before you start, you need to know your options — and the safe way to install them.

This guide will walk you through ballast bypass and plug-and-play LED retrofits, along with important safety tips and recommended products.

Why Switch from Fluorescent to LED?

  • Energy Savings: LEDs use up to 50% less power.

  • Longer Lifespan: No more frequent tube changes — most LEDs last 50,000+ hours.

  • Better Light Quality: Higher CRI, instant-on, and no flicker.

  • No Hazardous Mercury: Safer for you and the environment.

Step 1: Identify Your Current Setup

Before buying LED tubes, check your fixture:

  1. Remove the existing tube and read the label.

  2. Check the ballast type — electronic or magnetic.

  3. Decide whether you want a plug-and-play LED (keeps the ballast) or a ballast bypass LED (direct-wired to line voltage).

Step 2: Understand Your Options

Retrofit Type How It Works Pros Cons
Plug-and-Play (Type A) LED works with existing ballast Easy install Ballast must be compatible and still functional
Ballast Bypass (Type B) Ballast is removed, LED wired directly to power Most efficient, no ballast maintenance Requires rewiring
Hybrid (Type A/B) Works with or without a ballast Flexible installation Slightly higher cost

Step 3: Gather Tools and Safety Gear

  • Safety glasses

  • Gloves

  • Non-contact voltage tester

  • Screwdriver set

  • Wire strippers (for ballast bypass)

  • UL-listed wire connectors

Step 4: Install Your LED Tube

Plug-and-Play (Type A)

  1. Turn off the circuit breaker.

  2. Remove the fluorescent tube.

  3. Insert the new LED tube (compatible with your ballast).

  4. Restore power and test.

Ballast Bypass (Type B)

  1. Turn off power at the breaker.

  2. Remove the fluorescent tube and ballast cover.

  3. Disconnect the ballast wires.

  4. Connect line voltage directly to the lamp holders as per LED manufacturer’s diagram.

  5. Use new non-shunted lamp holders if required.

  6. Install the LED tube and restore power.

Safety Tips

  • Always follow the wiring diagram provided with your LED tube.

  • Never mix fluorescent and LED tubes in the same fixture.

  • Dispose of fluorescent tubes properly due to mercury content.

Shop All T8 LED Tubes →

Fluorescent to LED: FAQs

Quick answers before you retrofit your fixture.

What are my retrofit options?
Plug‑and‑Play (Type A) LEDs that work with compatible ballasts, Ballast Bypass (Type B) LEDs that wire directly to line voltage, and Hybrid (Type A/B) that can do either.
Do I have to remove the ballast?
No for Type A (ballast must be compatible and healthy). Yes for Type B (you’ll bypass or remove the ballast and wire to mains as per the LED diagram).
Are Type B LEDs safer?
They’re efficient and eliminate ballast failures, but rewiring must be done correctly. De‑energize the circuit, follow the manufacturer diagram, and use UL‑listed connectors.
Can I mix fluorescent and LED tubes in the same fixture?
No. Do not mix technologies in one fixture.
Do I need new lamp holders (tombstones)?
Many Type B single‑ended tubes require non‑shunted lamp holders. Check your LED’s instructions.
What size and type should I buy?
Match the existing tube length (e.g., 4‑ft T8/T12). Choose lumen output and color temperature (e.g., 3500–4100K neutral for kitchens, 5000K daylight for garages).
How do I dispose of old fluorescent tubes?
Recycle at an approved facility. Fluorescents contain mercury—don’t throw them in household trash.