Are T12 fluorescent bulbs obsolete?
In effect since July 2012, the legislation eliminates nearly all 4-foot T12 lamps, some 4-foot T8 lamps, most 8-foot T12 lamps, and almost all standard halogen PAR38, PAR30 and PAR20 lamps from the market. T12 technology is over 80 years old. Since that time, lamps and bulbs have been developed that just work better.
Are T12 bulbs good for growing?
So when should you use a T12 bulb? Don’t, unless you find one dirt cheap and you use it only for very small seedlings. Instead, full-spectrum high-output T5 lights are best even for seedlings.
Are fluorescent tubes good for plants?
Using fluorescent garden lights to enhance plant growth allows you to grow a host of plants in an interior space. Standard indoor lights do little to influence photosynthesis, while using fluorescent lighting placed closely to the top of the plants can help drive this important plant process.
Do T8 and T12 bulbs use the same ballast?
T12 and T8 lamps also differ on the ballast that they are operated with most of the time. T12 primarily run off a magnetic ballasts and T8 bulbs operate on electronic ballasts. Even though the fluorescent light socket is exactly the same for both of them, they cannot operate on the same ballast.
How long do T12 bulbs last?
Typical lamp life for a fluorescent bulb is about 20,000 hours, but this can degrade as a consequence of frequent switching (turning on and off). Burning life is extended if lamps remain on continuously for long periods of time.
Can plants live with only fluorescent light?
In fact, the whitish blue light that fluorescent lights give off is fine for most plants, particularly foliage plants that are good for indoors. If you have blooming plants you might need more natural light, be sure that your space can provide the right type and amount of light.
Is T8 or T12 better?
The smaller the lamps the more energy efficient they are. T8 bulbs use about 35% less electricity to produce the same amount of light as a T12. For some applications, one T5 bulb can replace two T12 bulbs, providing even greater energy savings (a process called “de-lamping.”)
Can succulents grow under fluorescent lights?
Both fluorescent and LED grow lights will keep your succulents healthy and happy all winter long. You can also use them to do some propagation over the winter, so you can have more succulents come spring!
Can a T8 tube replace a T12?
The easiest and lowest price option to replace a T12 is a T8 linear fluorescent. They have become the go-to option for pre-existing T12s. If you still have magnetic ballasts, switching to a T8 will require a ballast swap.
Which is brighter T12 or T8?
The Standard T12 lamp produces 2,650 initial lumens per lamp. The standard T8 produces 2,800 initial lumens per lamp, 6% brighter. But the standard T12 lamp produces 2,300 design lumens and the T8 produces 2,660 design lumens. Design Lumens are the average lumen output of the lamp after 40% of its rated life.