T5 / t8 / t12?

[Zodiakgrower7]

I understand the difference in these bulbs as far as the diameter.....as far as same size T5 vs. T8 or T12 in lumens are these comparable ??? If not which is better ?? I have done some research but only found they are different diameters and not much else. Any helpful info would be appreciated.

 

[DroJo]

Re: T5 / t8 / t12 ??

The difference that I know of is lumen maintenance. T-8s and T-12s lumens deppreciate(sp?) a lot quicker than T-5s. There are prolly other differences too the lumen thingy is just what i know about em.

 

[Zodiakgrower7]

Re: T5 / t8 / t12 ??

Thanks Dro, T5's it is then. I was pretty sure that is what I wanted but there isn't a lot of info on 8s and 12s so..... I appreciate the confirmation, always nice to get reassurance, thx Dro.

 

[Screwnuts33]

Re: T5 / t8 / t12 ??

Also note that each diameter has several wattages available. For T5's you want the 54watt bulbs (46"). I am sold on the T5's for veg/seedlings. They seem to be a nice addition to flowering now too.

 

[Zodiakgrower7]

Re: T5 / t8 / t12 ??

Thanks Screwnuts, yeah I'm stickin with the MH for veg, just planning on using these for some side light during flowering. I will get the 54 watt bulbs, wasn't sure which to get. As always I appreciate the help man, thx again.

 

[Screwnuts33]

Re: T5 / t8 / t12 ??

3000k 54watts for flower. I just changed my side light bulbs from 6500k to the 3000k. I got my bulbs from bulbs.com | Light Bulbs, Ballasts, Fixtures, Recycling & More. They are quick to ship and reasonable prices.

 

[Envirotech]

T12 uses magnetic ballast very inefficient 4 ft is 40 watts only 72 lm/w 2800lm
T8 uses electronic ballast 4 ft 32 watts 78 lm/w 2520 lm
T5 uses electronic ballast slightly shorter than 4 ft 28 watts 98lm/w 2750lm
these figures are all standard not HO versions.

Life of T8 and T5 are 20000 hrs T12 is 8000.
Note T12 was phased out as of july you can still buy bulbs but ballast are no longer available (you may still find them in stores getting rid of old stock)