Can T8 bulbs be used in fixtures originally designed for T12 without damaging the bal

[STOKJEEP]

Can T8 bulbs be used in fixtures originally designed for T12 without damaging the ballasts etc ?

[J-Dogg]

Sure, you have to change the tombstones though.

[u2slow]

You may or may not have to change the tombstones. Depends on the pin configuration you have now, and what lamps you are getting.

Check if the ballast label lists the T-8 lamp. If not, then they will likely not work. The T-8 lamp requires a higher starting voltage than the T-12. :(

[iroc-cj]

All the T8 lamps that I have seen are the same medium bi-pin base as a T12 lamp. With T8 lamps you are suppose to use electronic ballasts, but I have seen them work in fixtures with magnetic ballasts, how long they will last is another question.

[Ed A. Stevens]

Usually the tombstones must be replaced to fit the closer T8 pin spacing.

If you do change to T8's changing the ballasts to electronic will reduce the Watt consumption to near zero (it's a short payback, and even offer some power factor correction if you are operating high horsepower motors).

Happy Trails!