T5 Lighting Fixture: Replace Yours With LED Technology
The linear T5 lighting fixture have been used to light warehouses, industrial locations, offices, and various indoor applications for years. These fluorescent fixtures have been a lighting mainstay for so long that sometimes people forget that newer, better options exist. While T5 linear fixtures work fine for many applications, Access Fixtures recommends LED fixtures over these outdated products, and for good reason.
Key Takeaways
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T5 lighting fixtures provide high light output, multiple color temperatures, and versatility, making them suitable for various indoor applications, including gardening and commercial spaces.
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While T5 fixtures are efficient and cost-effective upfront, LED fixtures offer longer lifespan, significant energy savings, and better environmental benefits, making them a superior long-term choice.
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Choosing a reputable brand and utilizing services like photometric analysis can ensure you select the right fixture for your needs, optimizing lighting performance and satisfaction.
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The Pros and Light Output of T5 Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures
T5 lighting fixtures have several advantages over traditional T8 and T12 lighting that are worth noting. The lamp that makes up the majority of T5 lighting sales is the 54-watt T5HO, which produces 5,000 lumens. T5HO lamps emit more lumens per lamp than T8s or T12s. One T5HO lamp emits the light output of two T8 lamps. Using these powerful lamps means you can use fewer lamps and fixtures and still achieve your desired footcandle levels. T5 can also be effectively used at higher heights than other fluorescent lamps. They are also generally available at multiple color temperatures, making it easy to provide ambient lighting for different spaces and, in general, produce a high color rendering index. T5 fluorescent grow lights and their associated bulbs are versatile and efficient for indoor gardening.
T5 has many appealing facets. However, as technology improves, it makes sense to periodically reevaluate our old technology and decide if something new is better. As more and more people are choosing to retrofit or replace traditional light sources with LED, it’s important to understand why.
"We purchased 45 Linear LED (EPTA) lights for our horse riding arena. We had such a good experience with Access Fixtures. They helped us each step of the way from picking out the best lights to creating the perfect layout. We couldn’t be happier with the product and service."
Why LED is a More Efficient Option
When modern technology provides a better user experience, it’s time to upgrade. In the case of replacing T5 lighting fixtures with LED, it makes sense to discuss costs first. T5HO fluorescent lamps used to be the most energy-efficient option for troffer lights and tube lights on the market. The quality associated with different brands of T5 grow lights significantly impacts plant growth. LED replacements have actually been estimated to save 45%-65% of the energy costs of T5 lighting! These savings are incurred in several ways. T5 lamp life ranges from 25,000 hours to 35,000 hours. While this is certainly nothing to sneeze at, most LEDs last a minimum of 50,000 hours, with some being L70 rated at a whopping 200,000 hours. The cost saved here is obvious and striking–longer life means less frequent need for replacement. LED fixtures are also mercury-free, making them less of an environmental pollutant when disposed of than T5 lamps. LEDs also offer increased light efficiency when dimmed as opposed to T5 fixtures and usually produce more lumens per watt in general, which decreases energy usage and thus, energy costs. A lower wattage of LED luminaire will usually be just as efficient, sometimes more, as a higher wattage T5 lamp. In addition, these fixtures are usually IP-rated, whereas T5 fixtures are not, protecting the fixture from dust, bugs, and water damage. The advantages of using T5 light fixtures include cooler operation compared to traditional lighting options and the positive impact on growing conditions when positioned closer to plants.
What usually deters people from switching to LED right away is the higher initial cost of the fixture. T5 lighting fixtures are notoriously cheap, and justifying a higher initial price for LED may seem daunting or not worth it to some people. However, in addition to having a longer life and saving energy costs in the long run than T5 lamps, LED fixtures usually come with a stronger warranty to justify the larger cost to purchase, whereas many T5s do not. All of Access Fixtures’ T5 replacement LEDs come with a five-year warranty. Choosing a reliable brand is crucial for ensuring customer satisfaction and product reliability.
So, despite a bigger up-front cost, LEDs will save you even more money in the long term. Access Fixtures has developed a unique LED fixture designed to be an ideal T5 replacement–the EPTA.
EPTA: The Brighter Choice
Access Fixtures’ linear EPTA LED fixture is meant to replace aging T5 technology. It is sleek, efficient, and perfectly designed for a variety of locations. Read the list of features below to see why EPTA linear fixtures are a perfect replacement for old T5 lighting. Detailed specifications and size options are available to help customers choose the right product for their needs.
- L70 rated at over 200,000 hours
- Access Fixtures 5-year warranty
- Choice of 3000K, 4000K, and 5000K
- Choice of many different optics for the most efficient lighting
- 130 lumens per watt
- Choice of wattages includes 20w, 30w, 60w, 90w, 120w, and 150w
- Standard 70+ CRI, but 80+ and 90+ available at a small additional cost
- Mounting options include knuckle mount, bracket mount, and suspension cables
- IP67 – Dustproof, bug-proof, waterproof, and perfect for dirty and wet locations
- Availability of different size options and detailed specifications to meet various application needs
OTOK: High-Performance LED High Bay and Clean Room Lighting
Access Fixtures’ OTOK LED lighting fixture is designed for high bay and clean room environments, offering exceptional performance and durability. This fixture combines sleek design with cutting-edge LED technology to provide bright, efficient, and reliable illumination for industrial and commercial spaces. Key features of the OTOK LED fixture include:
OTOK Linear LED High Bay Light - For Clean Tech Manufacturing
- L70 rated for over 50,000 hours, ensuring long-lasting operation with minimal maintenance
- Multiple wattage options to suit various lighting requirements, maximizing energy efficiency
- High color rendering index (CRI) for accurate color representation, essential in clean rooms and industrial applications
- IP65 rating, making it dustproof and water-resistant, ideal for harsh or controlled environments
- Slim, low-profile design for easy installation and minimal visual impact
- Available in various color temperatures to customize ambient lighting according to specific needs
- Robust construction with durable materials to withstand demanding conditions
The OTOK LED fixture provides a modern, energy-efficient solution for replacing traditional high bay fluorescent lighting, delivering significant energy savings, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced lighting quality. Whether used in manufacturing plants, warehouses, or clean rooms, the OTOK fixture ensures optimal illumination and reliability for years to come.
Need A Photometric Analysis, Color Temperature, and Specifications for Your Project?
A photometric analysis is a computer simulation of a particular project. Whether using these fixtures to illuminate a parking lot, athletic field, rail yard, dock, or something else entirely, a photometric analysis is an easy way to quantify your light levels before making a big purchase. This service will provide average footcandles, max/min (uniformity) ratios, minimum footcandles, light trespass levels, and more. When the report(s) are generated, a lighting specialist will walk you through them, page by page, so you know exactly what you will be receiving. Call us at 800-468-9925 or email [email protected] for more information about ordering a photometric analysis for your project.
Ready to Order an EPTA Linear LED Fixture or Speak to a Lighting Specialist?
If you need some additional information about this fixture, give us a call at 800-468-9925. Of course, you can place your order online, right here, but our team is available to answer any questions that may come up. Most orders are shipped promptly, often within 24 hours, to ensure quick delivery and excellent condition upon arrival. Does your project require multiple fixtures? Ask us about quantity discounts. We are here to provide anything you need to purchase fixtures and illuminate your project with confidence.
Conclusion
T5 lighting fixtures have long been a reliable and efficient choice for various lighting needs, offering high light output, multiple color temperatures, and versatility for different applications. While T5 fixtures provide excellent performance, the advancement of LED technology presents an even more energy-efficient, longer-lasting, and environmentally friendly alternative. Upgrading to LED fixtures like the Access Fixtures EPTA can lead to significant energy savings, reduced maintenance costs, and improved lighting quality. Whether you choose to stick with T5 or switch to LED, selecting a reputable brand and the right fixture for your specific requirements will ensure optimal lighting performance and satisfaction for years to come.
T5 Lighting Fixture - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a T5 lighting fixture?
A T5 lighting fixture is a type of fluorescent light fixture that uses T5 lamps, which are slim, efficient tubes known for producing high light output and available in multiple color temperatures. They are commonly used in commercial, residential, and horticultural lighting applications.
How does a T5 lighting fixture compare to LED lighting?
While T5 fixtures are efficient and produce excellent light output, LED fixtures typically last longer, use less energy (saving 45%-65% on energy costs), and are more environmentally friendly due to being mercury-free. LEDs also usually have higher lumens per watt and come with stronger warranties.
Can T5 lighting fixtures be used at higher mounting heights?
Yes, T5 lighting fixtures can be effectively used at higher heights compared to other fluorescent lamps, making them versatile for various lighting needs.
Are T5 lighting fixtures suitable for indoor gardening?
Absolutely. T5 fluorescent grow lights and their bulbs are versatile and efficient for indoor gardening, providing the right color temperature and light intensity needed for plant growth.
What are the benefits of upgrading from T5 to LED fixtures?
Upgrading to LED fixtures offers longer lifespan (up to 200,000 hours), significant energy savings, reduced replacement frequency, environmental benefits, and improved lighting quality. Although LEDs have a higher upfront cost, they provide better value over time.
What should I consider when choosing a T5 lighting fixture?
Consider factors like light output (lumens), color temperature, wattage, fixture size, and brand reliability. Choosing a reputable brand ensures product reliability and customer satisfaction.
Are T5 lighting fixtures IP-rated?
Generally, T5 fixtures are not IP-rated, which means they may lack protection against dust, bugs, and water damage. LED fixtures often come with IP ratings, offering better protection for use in various environments.
Where can I get help with photometric analysis for my lighting project?
Many lighting suppliers, including Access Fixtures, offer photometric analysis services to help you determine the best fixture placement and light levels for your specific project. Contact their customer service for assistance.