Reading a tube light bulb involves understanding its markings to determine its dimensions and type. The most important indicator is the "T" number, which indicates the tube's diameter.
Here's a breakdown:
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The "T" Designation: The "T" in the code (e.g., T8, T12) stands for "tube," indicating it's a tubular fluorescent lamp.
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Diameter Measurement: The number following the "T" represents the diameter of the tube in eighths of an inch.
- Example 1: A T8 bulb has a diameter of 8/8 inch, which equals 1 inch.
- Example 2: A T12 bulb has a diameter of 12/8 inch, which equals 1.5 inches.
Essentially, divide the number after the "T" by 8 to find the diameter in inches. This is crucial for replacing bulbs correctly as the fixture must accommodate the correct diameter.
