Induction Lighting vs T5 Fluorescent

Current models of T5 fluorescent lighting has outputs very similar in quantity and quality of light to that of Induction lighting.  Both lighting technologies are very energy efficient, very much cheaper than LED lighting and present very high readings for both key light quality measures of CRI (Colour rendering Index) and VEL (Visually Effective Lumens).

   The following is a point by point comparison between Induction lighting and T5 fluorescent lighting.

• Induction lighting is the longest proven lamp life technology with our Lightingretrofit lamps having an average lamp life of 80,000+ hours long life expectancy. Compare this to an average lamp life for normal T5 fluorescent lamps of around 20,000 hours. There are new high tech versions of T5 with much longer lamp life which is great news, but still not nearly as long as Induction lighting and available at very premium prices.
• T5 fluorescent lamps like to stay on as much as possible and are not ideal for use with energy saving options such as timers and motion sensors because the constant switching on and off will deplete the electrodes at a faster rate and thus reduce the lamp life of the fitting. This will markedly increase the maintenance costs of the fittings over time and thus increase the overall lifetime cost per fitting. Induction lighting is very complementary when used in conjunction with these extra energy saving measures because it has no wearing parts in the lamp and is capable of switching on and off many times a day for many, many years. When all the energy saving and extra-long lamp life is combined with the low upfront cost, Induction lighting technology stands out as the lowest lifetime lighting cost of any area lightingtechnology.
• In areas of low ceiling height T5 fluorescent lighting is a very cost effective form of lighting which our Induction lighting cannot really compete with. It is when the ceiling height is higher as with warehouse lighting and other area lighting applications that Induction lighting comes into its own when compared to T5 fluorescent lighting. In these applications there are 2 ways to go with T5 fluorescent, either you can put in many units of twin 28W or 35W fittings and wear the extra maintenance costs of the more frequent lamp and ballast changes, or install the newer multi lamp T5 fittings which may have up to 6 long life lamps with quality reflectors, but good quality fittings of this variety are generally much more expensive when compared to the 150-300W output of a single Induction highbay light fixture.
• End of life replacement and control of the mercury within a standard fluorescent tube is an issue which needs to be factored into lighting choices. Induction lighting contains a small pellet of amalgam mercury which is fully contained in a glass bubble and is easily removed when the lamp eventually comes to the end of its life, some 3-4 lamp changes latter than a T5 fluorescent lamp fitting.
• For area lighting applications in Victoria and NSW we offer obligation free basic lighting design plans from the supply of simple building dimensions and lighting requirement information.