LED tube lighting has rapidly become the replacement for fluorescent tubes in residences, offices, and businesses. They are attractive because they save energy costs, have a longer life, and provide better quality lighting. Like any electrical device, however, LED tubes can eventually require replacement, perhaps because of burnout, flicker, the need to upgrade to a newer model, or simply a move towards more efficiency.
Don't worry if you don't know how to do it safely and properly. Most of the fixtures contain older ballasts or wiring, and unless you know what you are doing, attempting to replace them will leave you with mediocre results, or perhaps worse, safety hazards.
The next is a step-by-step instructions guide to taking you from recognizing your current fixture to replacing it, and then some additional troubleshooting tips and best practices to help your new tube last as long as it can.
The first is to recognize what type of tube you have currently:
Electricity is hazardous, so make sure to follow these safety precautions:
Step 1 – Power Off & Check No Voltage
Switch and circuit breaker off. Verify with a voltage tester that no power flows through. In case there is more than one light on the circuit, tag the switchboard.
Tip: Always double-check with a tester first before dealing with wires.
Step 2 – Remove Fixture Cover / Diffuser
Some have a pretty cover or diffuser to spread the light. Unscrew or unclip it.
Tip: Wipe the diffuser with a cloth; it enhances light transmission.
Hold the tube, rotate it about 90°, and carefully pull it away from the sockets.
If it's a fluorescent tube, handle it carefully and dispose of it properly (it contains mercury).
Tip: Don't use excessive force; this can crack sockets.
If your new LED tube is direct wire (Type B), you’ll need to bypass the ballast:
Tip: A wiring diagram is typically printed on the LED tube or package.
Step 5 – Install the New LED Tube
Place the new LED tube in the sockets, match the pins, and rotate to secure it.
Tip: Make sure pins are aligned for correct contact.
Restore power and test the tube. Test run it for a few minutes.
Tip: Note flickering, buzzing, or dimming, these suggest connection problems.
Troubleshooting & Common Issues
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Light doesn’t turn on | Loose wiring, wrong tube type, no voltage | Recheck connections, confirm power rating |
| Flickering/strobing | Ballast issue, poor contact | Bypass ballast, re-seat tube |
| Dim light | Wrong voltage, incompatible tube | Match specs, replace with correct type |
| Buzzing sound | Old ballast interference | Remove ballast, rewire direct |
| Delayed start | Using plug-and-play tube with faulty ballast | Switch to direct-wire tube |
Changing an LED tube light is perhaps techno sounding, but with the right preparation and safeguards, it is a DIY affair. From locating your fixture to bypassing a ballast safely and installing the new tube, every step enables safe usage and maximum performance.
Don't overlook recycling spent fluorescent tubes, purchasing the right replacement type, and being safety-conscious.
Western Electricals offers a comprehensive line of LED lighting solutions engineered for long life, energy efficiency, and speedy installation, enabling you to illuminate your area the intelligent way.