Did you know that no fluorescent lamps will be made after the end of 2023?
You probably already know that your dentist is no longer allowed to give you a filling containing mercury. And you can’t buy a mercury thermometer.
For lighting products, mercury was banned in 2011 under the Restriction of Hazardous Substances, RoHS, Directive. However, the Directive exempted T5 and T8 fluorescent lamps, compact fluorescent lamps with plug-in bases and various other lesser lamps.
These exemptions come to an end during 2023 and the effect will be that fluorescent lamps will no longer be put on the market after a certain date. The relevant dates are: From February 25, 2023, there will be a ban on all CFL lamps and from August 25, 2023, a ban on all T5 and T8 fluorescent lamps. I.e. when the existing stocks run out, after these dates, no more lamps will be made to replace them.
In anticipation of this ban, the major manufacturers of fluorescent lamps have been making and selling LED tube equivalents, often called retrofit tubes, for many years.
If you decide to use LED replacement tubes in your existing fittings (luminaires) instead of purchasing completely new LED luminaires, there are some points to watch out for.
Firstly, make sure the tube complies with BS EN 62776:2015. This should be shown on the packaging. The next thing to do is to make sure that you only need to replace the fluorescent lamp and starter canister (if there is one). I would strongly advise against using LED tubes where you have to do any kind of rewiring.
It is unlikely that an LED tube can be used in a fluorescent luminaire which is also used for emergency lighting. Neither can most LED tubes be dimmed. The tube should carry some kind of symbol for these two aspects. The tube should also indicate whether it is suitable for high frequency or non-electronic ballasts.
In terms of light distribution/appearance, most LED tubes emit the light in a 120 degree downward cone and this can leave the walls looking a bit dark if you have a low ceiling. Look for a tube with a wider beam if possible.
Finally, it is worth considering if the space is used for different activities from when it was first installed. You might find that you need more, or less, or a different type of lighting.