|
Wed, Oct 19, 11 at 8:35
| I'm retrofitting my T12 to T8 florescent bulbs and changed several already. In my kitchen, the T12 bulbs (old magnetic rapid-start ballasts) last around 2 years each. They aren't on "all day" like an office, but they aren't on/off like a hallway light: probably closer to on/off than all-day since we are home during the day.
Some say "T8+Instant Start = Death to the bulb unless it's hardly ever cycled, like no more than 2x/day". Wondering how much of that is truth, my question is: If I switch to electronic Instant Start ballast and use T8 bulbs, how much reduced lifespan could I expect? (Obviously nobody knows for sure, I was thinking along the lines of "A lot" vs "not much"). I'm debating on upgrading the ballasts to 2x expensive Programmed Start instead of the Instant Start. Opinions? |
Follow-Up Postings:
|
| imo, it doesn't matter all that much. I haven't had to replace a T8 in 3 - 4 years (yet) even though the light is connected an electronic instant start ballast and the duty cycle ~ 3x/ day. |
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Lighting Forum
Instructions
- You must be a registered member and logged in to post messages on our forums.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review the contents and make changes.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- It is illegal to post copyrighted material without the owner's consent.
- HTML codes are allowed in the message field only.
- No advertising is allowed in any of the forums.
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.