This guide describes the steps for installing LED tube lights in an existing fixture. LED tube lights are an energy-efficient and durable replacement for traditional fluorescent tubes. They offer a longer lifespan, lower energy consumption, and better lighting.
Safety Instructions
Before you begin:
- Turn off power: Ensure that the power is turned off via the main switch. Check with a voltage meter to confirm that there is no voltage present at the fixtures.
- Wear safety glasses: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust and debris that may be released when removing the old fluorescent tubes.
Installation Steps
1. Remove old fluorescent tubes:
- Carefully twist: Gently twist the old fluorescent tubes at the ends and pull them out of the sockets.
- Store safely: Place the old tubes in a safe location to prevent damage.
2. Check the fixture:
- Visual inspection: Inspect the fixture for loose wiring, damaged parts, or other issues.
- Repair or replace: Repair or replace any damaged parts as necessary before proceeding. If you prefer to switch to a LED fixture, you can order one here. This ensures that the installation will work correctly.
3. Remove ballast and starter (if present):
- Identify: Some older fixtures have a ballast. This is a metal box with one or two coils.
- Disconnect: Disconnect the power supply from the ballast. Make sure to label all power cables so you can reconnect them correctly later.
- Remove: Take the ballast out of the fixture. Secure the wires that were connected to the ballast safely to prevent short circuits.
- Starter not needed: Remove the starter. The starter is almost never needed when using LED tubes. (Some of our LED tubes come with dummy starters. These are only required for specific fixtures in rare cases, but generally, they are not needed.)
4. Rewire the cables
-
Identify the power wires: In most fixtures, there are two power wires: the phase wire (L) and the neutral wire (N).
Connect on one side: Connect the phase wire (L) and the neutral wire (N) on one side of the fixture. Ensure they are connected to the same socket. - Insulate: Insulate all wire connections with heat shrink tubing or tape to prevent short circuits.
5. Install LED tube:
- Align contact points: Place the single-sided LED tube into the sockets of the fixture. Ensure that the contact points of the tube are properly aligned with the contact points in the sockets.
- Press firmly: Firmly push the tube into the sockets on both sides until it clicks into place and twist it to secure.
6. Install LED tube: Test the lighting:
- Turn on power: Switch the power supply back on.
- Check operation: Test the lighting to ensure that the LED tubes are installed correctly and functioning well. Look for even lighting and absence of flickering.
- Troubleshoot: If there are issues, turn off the power and check the installation for errors.
Tips:
- Always wear gloves during installation to protect your hands.
- If necessary, use a ladder to reach high fixtures.
- If in doubt, consult the LED tube manual or contact customer service.
Conclusion:
By following these steps, you can safely and easily install LED tube lights. Be careful, take your time, and enjoy your new LED lighting!
