The transition to LED power tubes might be challenging. Understand the distinctions between single- and double-ended tubes. LED Pot Lights. To help you find the best one for you, you can compare Type A, Type B, and Type A-B LED power tubes.
Is ballast compatible? Double-ended power? What do these even mean?!
Understanding lighting is challenging. We wouldn’t need electricians if it were simple! Therefore, don’t worry if you want to replace your fluorescent tube lighting but aren’t sure what all the LED nomenclature means. LED Pot Lights. In addition to contrasting Type A, Type B, and Type A-B LED power tubes, this blog will cover the distinctions between single- and double-ended tubes. Let’s start now!
Single vs. Double Ended Power Tubes
The live and neutral pins are found on the same end of a single-ended power tube, and electricity is sent to that end. A non-shunted socket is necessary for single-ended power tubes. LED Pot Lights. To improve the light’s efficacy with single-ended tubes, the pre-existing ballast should be taken out.
A double-ended tube has one live end and one “dead” end because the live and neutral pins are situated on opposing sides of the tube. Both non-shunted and shunted sockets can be used with these tubes.
Type A (Plug and Play) (Ballast Compatible) LED Tubes
The transition from fluorescent to LED tube lighting is easier with Type A tubes, although the extra simplicity comes with a modest price premium. LED Pot Lights. A driver inside the tubes provides the necessary power.
They are so simple to install because they work with fluorescent ballasts, which eliminates the need for rewiring and for removing the ballast. LED tubes powered by Type-A, or Plug & Play, can only be double-ended. LED Pot Lights.
Type B (Direct Wire) LED Tubes
Direct wire voltage is used with type B tubes. Since they have their internal drivers, they don’t depend on the fluorescent ballasts that are already in place. By having to remove the ballast, you eliminate the possibility that it would eventually go bad (which would only result in the additional effort!).
Additionally, since the ballast consumes power, removing it increases the efficiency of your light while saving energy. LED Pot Lights. Installation of these tubes takes longer than Type A tubes because non-shunted sockets must be inserted. The most efficient choice is a type B tube, which has the option of single or double-ended power.
Type A-B (Universal) LED Tubes
Hybrid Type A-B tubes combine the advantages of Type A and Type B tubes. You can opt to keep the ballast or completely omit it. These tubes can either be placed with direct line voltage or as “Plug and Play” devices that use the pre-existing ballast and shunted socket.
Use direct line voltage instead of buying a new power tube if you chose to use the ballast, as it will ultimately break down. LED Pot Lights. Type A-B tubes are a wonderful choice for their adaptability and effectiveness.
Important Note: It’s crucial to remember that not all LED tubes are compatible with fluorescent ballasts. If you want to find out if your ballast is suitable, please contact the manufacturer.
Conclusion:
If you’re prepared to replace your fluorescent tube lights, we completely understand. Although switching to LED increases energy efficiency and reduces costs, selecting the finest LED power tube is not always simple. LED Pot Lights. Please get in touch with us if you have any inquiries concerning retrofitting or ballast compatibility.