How much can you save by replacing T8 (36W) twin fluorescent tubes?
Many businesses have directly replaced their T8 fluorescent tubes with LED tubes and T5 fluorescent tubes that use the same fixtures and fittings.
However there are a range of options that you may want to consider. The following table shows the main energy-saving alternatives to T8 (36W) twin fluorescent tubes.[1]
| Alternative lighting options | Estimated lifespan of new lighting |
Estimated running cost reduction[2] |
| Remove one 36W T8 tube; then install an electronic ballast and a high efficiency reflector | The T8 tube can last for 12,000–16,000 hours | 50–70% |
| T8 to T5 tube (28W) conversion kit [3] | 16,000–20,000 hours | 20–50% |
| New twin T5 (28W) linear fluorescent luminaire | 16,000–20,000 hours | 30–40% |
| New single T5 (28W) linear fluorescent luminaire | 16,000–20,000 hours | 60–67% |
| Pair of linear LED replacement lamps (2x19W) | Up to 50,000 hours | 50–70% |
| New 30W integrated LED luminaire [4] | 30,000–50,000 hours | 60–67% |
The standard T8 fluorescent tubes can 
now be replaced with T5 tubes that use less energy. However, LED lighting tubes can last longer than both T8 and T5 tubes.
Eastern Road Quality Meats, NSW
In addition to a previous lighting upgrade, Eastern Road Quality Meats has recently made its lighting as efficient as it can be, delamping further and upgrading to 18W LED lighting from less efficient T8 fluorescent lighting. According to owner Allan Waldon, these changes are contributing to their overall energy savings of around 25% a year.[5]
- 1. A more detailed version of this table is available on page 25 of the NSW OEH ‘Energy Saver Energy Efficient Lighting Technology Report’
- 2. This is dependent on the quality of lighting that you buy.
- 3. If you do make modifications to an existing light be sure to check who is responsible for the product warranty. The original manufacturer may no longer cover the product if changes are made.
- 4. This is the recommended option in the NSW OEH ‘Energy Efficient Lighting Technology Report‘.
- 5. EnergyCut.info/butcheries-case-study