The Secret to a Brighter Future: Why LEDs are Better Than Fluorescent Lights

Are you tired of flickering, unflattering light that does not last long? It is time you replaced your faulty fluorescent light with reliable and durable LED tube lights. The lighting industry has undergone a revolutionary change with the advent of LED technology, offering a superior alternative to traditional fluorescent lighting. As the UK government takes steps to phase out less energy-efficient lighting, the shift towards LED lighting has gained momentum.

 

This article explores the rising popularity of LED lighting as an energy-efficient alternative to fluorescent lighting. We will look at common questions about transitioning from fluorescent to LED lighting, including retrofitting options, potential health benefits, and product selection. By the end of this article, you will have all the comprehensive information to make informed decisions about upgrading to LED lighting solutions.

 

Many homeowners have experienced significant improvements after switching to LED lighting. For instance, Sarah from Manchester shared her experience: "After replacing all our fluorescent lights with LED tubes, our energy bills dropped by nearly 30%. Not only do the LEDs provide brighter and more consistent light, but I also love knowing that I'm making an eco-friendly choice." Her story reflects a growing trend among consumers who are prioritising both cost savings and sustainability.

 

 

Are Fluorescent Tubes Being Banned in the UK?

The UK government is implementing measures to phase out less energy-efficient lighting technologies as part of its strategy to combat climate change and reduce energy consumption. The initiative has progressed in stages:

 

1. In September 2021, the sale of halogen light bulbs was banned in the UK.

2. In September 2023, the sale of most pin-based (CFLni) fluorescent lamps was prohibited.

3. From 1 September 2023 onwards, the government announced plans to phase out most fluorescent lights by 2023/24.

4. Specifically, the sale of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) will be banned beginning February 2024.

5. Linear fluorescent tubes, commonly used in offices and industrial settings, started to be phased out from 1 September 2024.

 

These changes are part of the UK government's plans to transition towards more energy-efficient lighting solutions, primarily LED technology. The bans apply to the sale of new bulbs, not the use of existing ones, allowing consumers and businesses to transition gradually as their current bulbs reach the end of their lifespan.

 

A recent case study involving a local café in London highlights the benefits of transitioning to LED lighting. The café originally used fluorescent tubes, which contributed to high energy costs. After retrofitting their fixtures with LED tubes, the owners reported a 40% reduction in lighting expenses. Additionally, the café's ambience improved significantly, attracting more customers who appreciated the brighter and more inviting atmosphere.

Do Fluorescent Lights Give off Heat?

Yes, all fluorescent lights give off heat as a by-product of their operation. When electricity passes through a fluorescent light, about 80% of this energy is converted to heat while only 20% converts to light. Yet, fluorescent lighting is more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs and converts most of their energy into heat- a reason why incandescent bulbs are always hot to touch when on

 

How much heat a fluorescent bulb gives off will depend on factors like bulb wattage, the design of the light fixture, and how long the fluorescent stays on. Ambient room temperature also contributes to how hot your fluorescent light gets.

Why Do I Get Headaches from Fluorescent Lights?

Your frequent headaches may be due to the uneven lighting produced by fluorescents. Researchers experimenting on the Effects of Fluorescent Lighting on Headaches and Eyestrain showed that subjects exposed to conventional fluorescent lighting experienced more headaches. The flickering from fluorescent lights, even if small, can cause eye strain and discomfort. Switching to better alternative lighting, like LEDs, could significantly improve vision and reduce headaches.

 

 

Do Fluorescent Lights Use a Lot of Electricity?

Fluorescent lights are generally considered energy-efficient compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. However, their energy consumption varies based on the type and can be higher than some modern alternatives like LED batten lights. Below is a comparison of energy efficiency and lifespan:

 

How does a fluorescent light compare to other lighting?

 

Light Type	Energy Efficiency	Lifespan	Notes
Incandescent	Least efficient	750-2000 hours	Uses 90% of its energy as heat
CFL (Compact Fluorescent)	4-5x more efficient than incandescent	8000-10000 hours	Contains a small amount of mercury
Fluorescent Tube	3-4x more efficient than incandescent	10000-20000 hours	Requires ballast, which uses additional energy
LED	Most efficient	25000-50000+ hours	No warm-up time, fully dimmable

 

So, how much power does a 5ft fluorescent tube use in an hour? A typical 5ft fluorescent has a power rating of 58W. Based on Ofgem, the current standard electricity tariff in the UK is 24.86p/kWh (1 January to 31 March 2025).

 

To calculate the cost of using this fluorescent tube:

1. Convert the power rating into kWh:

Formula: kWh = (watts x hours) ÷ 1000

New rating: (58W x 1h) / 1000 = 0.058 kWh

 

2. Multiply this number by the cost of electricity in the UK (24.86p/kWh):

0.058 kWh x 24.86p/kWh = 1.44p

 

A 5ft fluorescent light is economical to run in an hour. But how does it compare to an LED tube light?

How much does it cost to run a fluorescent light for a day?

To find out how much it costs to run a fluorescent light for a day, multiply the hourly cost by 24 hours.

 

Cost per hour = 1.44p

Cost per day = 1.44p x 24 = 34.56p

How much electricity does an LED tube light use per hour?

A typical 5ft twin LED light tube has a power rating of 30 watts.

1. Convert the watts into kWh:

30W x 1h / 1000 = 0.03 kWh

2. Cost of running an LED tube for an hour:

0.03 kWh x 24.86p/kWh = 0.74p

Although fluorescent lights are better than incandescent bulbs, they cannot match the energy efficiency of LED lights.

Factors Affecting Electricity Usage of Fluorescent Bulbs

● Wattage: Higher-wattage bulbs use more electricity

● Usage duration: Longer use leads to higher consumption

● Ballast efficiency: Electronic ballasts are more efficient than magnetic ones

● Light output: Lumens per watt indicate efficiency

How to save energy when still using fluorescent lighting

● Use natural light when possible

● Install light sensors or timers to control when the lights come on or off

● Choose the right size and type of bulb for each application

● Always clean the fixtures to keep them efficient

● Upgrade to LED batten lights for maximum energy savings

 

Is LED Better than Fluorescent?

LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, are a revolutionary lighting technology that has gained popularity in recent years. Unlike traditional fluorescent lights, which rely on gas-filled tubes and ballast to produce light, LEDs are solid-state devices that emit light when an electric current is passed through them. This fundamental difference in how they generate light has significant implications for their performance, energy efficiency, and environmental impact.

Key Advantages of LED Lights

● Mercury-Free: LEDs do not contain harmful substances like mercury, which is present in fluorescent tubes.

● Better Light Projection: LEDs provide directional light, minimising wastage compared to fluorescent tubes, which emit light in all directions.

● Superior Colour Rendering: LEDs have a higher Colour Rendering Index (CRI), allowing for more accurate and vibrant colour representation. LED lights are suited for applications where colour accuracy is important, such as workshops, professional kitchens, art galleries and so on.

● Longer Lifespan: LEDs can last up to 50,000 hours, far exceeding the 20,000 hours of most fluorescent lights.

● Cost-Effective: Although LEDs may have a higher upfront cost, their longevity and energy savings make them more economical in the long run.

Visual comparisons can be striking. For example, a local office building replaced their fluorescent fixtures with LED tubes. In side-by-side comparisons, the LED-lit space appeared brighter and more vibrant, enhancing productivity and employee satisfaction. Photos of the transformation reveal just how much of a difference lighting quality can make in a workplace environment.

 

 

How can you tell the difference between a LED Tube and a Fluorescent Tube?

Here are some ways to distinguish between LED tubes and fluorescent lighting:

 

1. Light Quality

LED tubes are known for their directional light output. They typically emit light at a 120-degree to 180-degree beam angle, focusing the light downward and outward. This characteristic makes them excellent for task lighting or areas where directed illumination is desired. In contrast, fluorescent tubes are omnidirectional light sources, emitting light in a full 360-degree pattern around the tube. This can be beneficial for general ambient lighting but may result in some light being wasted, especially if the fixtures lack good reflectors.

 

2. Appearance When Off

When not illuminated, LED tubes often have a distinct appearance. They typically feature a plastic or polycarbonate cover that may be white, frosted, or slightly opaque. This cover houses the LED chips and helps diffuse the light. Some LED tubes might have a visible strip of individual LEDs inside. Fluorescent tubes, on the other hand, are usually made of clear glass. When off, you can often see the electrodes at each end of the tube, as well as a thin coating of phosphor on the inside of the glass.

 

3. Ends of the Tube

The ends of LED and fluorescent tubes offer another clear distinguishing feature. LED tubes often have plastic end caps that may be removable or fixed. These end caps house the circuitry necessary for LED operation and provide a connection to the fixture. Fluorescent tubes, however, have metal pins protruding from both ends. These pins are used to make electrical contact with the lamp holders in the fixture and are essential for the operation of the fluorescent lamp.

 

4. Time to warm-up

One of the most noticeable differences in operation between LEDs and fluorescent tubes is the warm-up time. LED tubes provide instant illumination, reaching full brightness almost immediately after being switched on. This makes them ideal for areas where immediate light is necessary. Fluorescent tubes, particularly older models or those in cold environments, may take a few seconds to several minutes to reach full brightness. During this warm-up period, they might flicker or appear dimmer than usual.

 

5. Flicker

Flicker is another operational characteristic that can help distinguish between these two types of tubes. High-quality LED tubes generally produce a steady, flicker-free light due to their electronic drivers and the nature of LED technology. Some lower-quality LEDs may exhibit flicker, but it's generally less common. Fluorescent tubes, especially those with magnetic ballasts or ageing electronic ballasts, can produce a noticeable flicker. While often invisible to the naked eye, this flicker can cause eye strain and headaches in sensitive individuals.

 

6. Heat Emission

The amount of heat produced during operation is a significant differentiation between LEDs and fluorescent tubes. LED tubes generate very little heat, with most of their energy being converted directly into light. This keeps them cool to the touch even after hours of operation. Fluorescent tubes, in contrast, can become quite warm or even hot during use. A significant portion of their energy input is converted to heat rather than light, making them less efficient and potentially increasing cooling costs in air-conditioned spaces.

 

7. Weight

The weight difference between LED and fluorescent tubes can be noticeable, especially when handling larger quantities. LED tubes are typically lighter, often weighing about half as much as their fluorescent counterparts. This is due to their simpler internal structure and the absence of mercury or other gases. Fluorescent tubes are heavier because of their glass construction, the presence of inert gases and mercury vapour inside, and the phosphor coating on the inside of the tube.

 

8. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a key advantage of LED technology. LED tubes are significantly more energy-efficient than fluorescent tubes, often using 40-50% less energy to produce the same amount of light. For example, an 18W LED tube might replace a 32W fluorescent tube while providing equivalent or better illumination.

 

This efficiency translates to lower electricity bills and reduced environmental impact. Fluorescent tubes, while more efficient than incandescent bulbs, still lag behind LEDs in terms of energy efficiency.

 

9. Presence of Ballast

The need for ballast is another distinguishing factor between these lighting technologies. Most LED tubes are designed to work without a ballast, connecting directly to line voltage. Some LED tubes are engineered to work with existing fluorescent ballasts for easy retrofitting, but these are less common.

 

Fluorescent tubes, on the other hand, always require a ballast to regulate the current and provide the high starting voltage needed for operation. The ballast is typically housed in the light fixture itself.

How to Convert Fluorescent Tube to LED in the UK

Converting a fluorescent light fixture to accept LED bulbs is straightforward. Here’s how:

 

1. Turn off the power: Switch off the circuit breaker.

2. Remove the old fluorescent tube: Gently twist and pull it out.

3. Open up the light fixture: Remove the cover to access the wiring.

4. Identify the wires: In the UK, brown is live, blue is neutral, and green/yellow is earth.

5. Bypass the ballast: Cut the wires on both sides of the ballast.

6. Prepare the wires: Strip the ends of each wire.

7. Connect the wires: Group and connect the live, neutral, and earth wires.

8. Double-check your work: Ensure all connections are secure.

9. Put the fixture back together: Tuck the wires back in and replace the cover.

10. Install the new LED tube: Ensure it's made for direct-wire setups.

11. Test it out: Turn the power back on and check if it works.

 

Important Notes:

● Ensure your LED tubes are compatible with direct-wire installations.

● Follow manufacturer's instructions.

● Comply with local electrical codes.

● Consult a qualified electrician if unsure.

 

Can You Replace Fluorescent Tubes with LED Without Removing Ballast?

Yes, you can replace fluorescent tubes with LED tubes without removing the ballast, depending on the type of LED tube you choose. Here are the three main types of LED tube replacements:

 

 

● Retrofit LED Tubes: These are designed to work with existing ballasts, allowing for an easy installation without any rewiring. However, it's important to check compatibility, as some older ballasts may not work well with these LED tubes.

● Ballast-Bypass LED Tubes: For this type, you will need to remove the existing ballast and rewire the fixture to connect the new LED tube directly to the line voltage. This option often provides better energy efficiency and eliminates potential ballast issues.

 

Both options can provide significant benefits, including energy savings and improved lighting quality. Ensure you choose the right type based on your existing fixtures and lighting needs.

Should You Use LED Lights in Your House?

LED bulbs have many advantages over conventional lighting. Here are some reasons to switch:

 

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

LED lights use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, leading to significant reductions in electricity bills. While the upfront cost is higher, the long-term savings make them a cost-effective choice.

 

Longevity and Durability

LED bulbs last much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs (up to 25 times longer according to research). They are also more durable and resistant to breakage.

 

Versatility

LED lights come in various colours, sizes, and brightness levels, making them suitable for different applications in your home, from task lighting in the kitchen to mood lighting in the living room. For emergency situations, the Morris LED Emergency Light Bulkhead Exit provides a reliable and energy-efficient solution, ensuring safety without compromising on performance.

 

Safety and Environmental Considerations

LED lights produce less heat, reducing fire risks. They contain no toxic materials and are fully recyclable, minimising environmental impact.

 

What are the disadvantages of LED Light bulbs?

While popular, LED lights have some drawbacks:

 

● Upfront Cost: Initially more expensive than traditional bulbs.

● Colour Rendering: Some may not render colours as accurately.

● Dimming Compatibility: Not all are dimmable; specific dimmer switches may be needed.

When should you not use LED Lights?

LED lights are becoming more common in various settings because of the benefits they bring. They are energy-efficient, long-lasting and very economical whether used in homes or commercial settings. However, some situations may not be suitable for LED lights.

 

1. In enclosed fixtures

Although LED lights produce minimal heat, they can still get hot when installed in enclosed fixtures. An LED bulb may burn out too soon if it is installed in a fixture without enough ventilation because of heat build-up. The fixture may also melt or discolour overtime; hence it is always advisable to use LEDs with open fixtures.

 

2. With dimming setups

If your LED tubes are not compatible with dimming switches, they may not function as required. The LED light may buzz, flicker, or completely die when you try to dim its brightness. This happens because the dimming switch reduces current passing through the LED tube, causing the LED to behave differently than it would on a normal switch. If you have dimming switches, then consider getting LED tubes with dimming features.

 

3. In high-temperature conditions

LED lights are sensitive to variations in temperature. They break down because their internal components start to degrade when they are subjected to high temperatures. LED bulbs lose efficiency and may even burn out in outdoor or industrial environments where temperatures may rise beyond 60 degrees Celsius. As a result, you should stay away from utilising LED lights in places with high temperatures.

 

4. In insect-prone areas

The blue or white light that LED lights emit can attract flying insects, which is one of its drawbacks. LED lights have the potential to attract some bug species, which might be problematic for homeowners. LED lights should not be used in places where insects are a problem. As an alternative, consider using coloured LED tube lights that produce blue, red, or green light, which are less appealing to insects.

 

5. On a high-voltage fixture

LED lights are engineered for energy efficiency, optimally performing with low-voltage systems. Connecting an LED tube directly to a high-voltage fluorescent fixture can potentially damage the LED. Before installation, it's crucial to verify the fixture's voltage compatibility with your chosen LED light. In many instances, rewiring the ballast to reduce the voltage output is necessary. This modification ensures proper LED tube function and longevity, preventing premature burnout.

 

 

Conclusion

LED lights are a better alternative to traditional fluorescent lighting. They offer numerous advantages, including higher energy efficiency, longer lifespan, better light quality, and environmental friendliness due to the absence of mercury. While LEDs may have a higher upfront cost, their long-term benefits in terms of energy savings and reduced maintenance make them a cost-effective choice for both residential and commercial applications.

 

The transition from fluorescent to LED lighting is relatively straightforward, with options to either use ballast-compatible LED tubes or bypass the existing ballast for a more future-proof solution. However, it's important to consider factors such as fixture compatibility, dimming requirements, and specific environmental conditions when making the switch.

 

As the UK and other countries move towards phasing out less efficient lighting technologies, LED lights are positioned to become the standard for illumination, offering a brighter and more sustainable future for lighting solutions.

 

For those looking to enhance specific areas of their home, we invite you to explore our detailed guides on various installations. Discover effective lighting solutions for your garage, enhance your ceiling lighting, transform your kitchen with stylish fixtures, and make the most of your loft space. Don’t forget to check out our tips for illuminating your shed, optimising lighting under the cupboard, and creating inviting spaces with under cabinet lighting. Each post offers valuable insights to help you achieve the perfect lighting setup in your home.

 

Ready to upgrade your lighting? Explore our wide range of LED products today and discover how you can enhance your space while saving on energy costs.

 

References

1.(1989) (PDF) fluorescent lighting, headaches and eyestrain. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/258168086_Fluorescent_lighting_headaches_and_eyestrain

2.Department for Business, E.& I.S. (2021) End of halogen light bulbs spells brighter and cleaner future, GOV.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/end-of-halogen-light-bulbs-spells-brighter-and-cleaner-future

3.(No date) LED lighting | Department of Energy. Available at: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/led-lighting