LED Tube Installation Instructions
How to choose and install LED tubes safely
Match the tube length, fitting type and wiring method before you replace a fluorescent lamp. This guide covers the checks that matter most for homes, offices, shops and other indoor spaces in South Africa.
- Our LED Tubes use single-sided wiring to increase safety.
- Please see installation instructions below and contact us if you have further questions.
- To be installed by a qualified electrician only.
Replacing a fluorescent tube is not only a matter of fitting a new lamp. The tube, ballast, starter, wiring method and powered end must all match.
This guide helps you identify the right tube length, understand single-sided connection, and give your electrician the information needed before work starts.
Start with the fitting you already have
Most installation problems begin when a tube is chosen by length alone. First identify whether you need a T8 tube, a T5 fitting or a complete fitting, then confirm the connection method on the exact product listing.
Existing fluorescent fitting
Measure the lamp and inspect the ballast, starter and lampholders. Your electrician must confirm whether the selected tube requires the ballast or starter to be removed or bypassed.
New direct replacement
Choose the exact length, cap and wiring arrangement shown on the product page. Do not treat a similar-looking tube as proof that the connection is the same.
Shorter indoor fitting
The live range includes 600mm T8 and T5 options. Compare the stated wattage, lumens and colour temperature where those details are provided.
Longer indoor run
The live range includes 900mm, 1200mm and 1500mm options. Confirm the fitting length and the intended light level before ordering several tubes.
What to check before choosing an LED tube
Match the length
Common replacements include 600mm, 1200mm and 1500mm tubes. Measure the existing tube and fitting rather than choosing by the number of feet in the product title.
Confirm the connection
Check whether the product is designed for direct mains connection and whether the powered end is clearly marked. The product page should agree with the tube and fitting instructions.
Check the light output
Wattage alone does not tell you how much light you will get. Compare lumens, colour temperature and the intended indoor application.
Check the fitting environment
Many LED tubes in this range are IP20 indoor products. Confirm the stated IP rating and installation conditions before using a tube in a damp or exposed area.
Compare LED tube options
600mm Philips T8
8W, 800 lumens and 4000K cool white in a 600mm glass T8 format with a G13 cap. A practical fit for shorter indoor fittings, kitchens, offices and retail displays.
View the 600mm Philips tube1500mm Elbro Ecoline
22W, 1920 lumens and 4000K cool white for compatible indoor fittings. The 1500mm format suits longer office, retail, kitchen and general lighting runs.
View the 1500mm Elbro tube1500mm high-lumen T8
24W and 3600 lumens in a 5ft format with 6000K daylight. It is specified for compatible indoor fittings and direct single-sided mains connection.
View the 5ft high-lumen tube600mm T8 daylight tube
The live listing identifies a 600mm frosted T8 tube with 9W output and 6000K daylight. Use the exact listing and fitting information to confirm whether it is the right replacement.
View the 600mm T8 tube| Option | Length | Confirmed light data | Best starting point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philips Signify EcoLink | 600mm | 8W, 800lm, 4000K, G13 | Short indoor fittings, desks and counters |
| Elbro Ecoline | 1500mm | 22W, 1920lm, 4000K | Longer office, retail and kitchen runs |
| Premium high-lumen T8 | 1500mm | 24W, 3600lm, 6000K | Brighter indoor task and general lighting |
Installation sequence for a qualified electrician
The exact work depends on the fitting and the tube selected. The sequence below explains the decisions involved; it is not a substitute for the product instructions or an electrician's inspection.
- Isolate the mains and verify that the circuit is dead.
- Remove the existing fluorescent tube and inspect the fitting.
- Confirm whether the ballast and starter must be removed or bypassed for the selected LED tube.
- Rewire live and neutral to the correct powered side when the product is designed for single-sided mains connection.
- Check the markings on the LED tube, including the powered end and any G13 or fitting requirements.
- Fit the tube in the correct orientation, restore power and test the result.
Do not assume every tube uses the same wiring
Single-sided tubes, ballast-compatible tubes and integrated fittings are not interchangeable by appearance alone. If the tube markings, fitting diagram or product instructions do not agree, stop and confirm the correct method before energising the circuit.
Choose the right route for your project
For a single household replacement, start with the exact tube length and connection method. For an office, shop, school or workshop, list the fitting length, required light level, colour temperature and number of tubes before ordering. If you are unsure whether the existing fitting can be converted, send the team a clear photo of the fitting and the tube markings through the Future Light contact page.
Ready to compare tubes?
Browse the T8 and T5 LED tube collection, then check the individual product page for length, connection, voltage, colour temperature and installation details.
Browse LED tubesAsk for helpLED tube questions worth settling first
Do LED tubes need a starter?
There is no single answer for every tube. The electrician must follow the selected product instructions and confirm whether the existing starter and ballast stay in the circuit, are removed or are bypassed.
Can I use any T8 tube in an old fitting?
No. T8 describes the tube format, not the complete wiring arrangement. Check the powered end, connection method and fitting instructions for the exact product.
What should I measure before buying?
Measure the tube and the fitting, then record the cap type, available space, colour temperature and any ballast or starter details. Share a photo with an electrician if the existing arrangement is unclear.
Are these tubes suitable for damp areas?
The selected guide examples are presented as indoor products. Confirm the stated IP rating and installation conditions before using any tube in a damp or exposed location.