t8 fluorescent ballasts

3 Lamp T8 Electronic Ballasts | F17T8, F25T8, F32T8

Not sure which type of T8 fluorescent ballast you need? Instant start and programmed start ballasts are both great technologies, but they are intended for different applications.

Instant Start

Quickest, most energy-efficient, instant-on lighting intended for areas with infrequent switching and on cycles of several hours. Ideal for offices, warehouses, and retail spaces.

Programmed (Rapid) Start

Slower starting, energy-efficient lighting that prolongs the life of lamps and performs well in frequently switched applications or in areas controlled by an occupancy sensor. Ideal for hallways, stairwells, and bathrooms.

F17T8 to F32T8 - Fluorescent Ballasts

Installing a new fluorescent ballast or performing an F17T8, FB24T8, F25T8, F25T12, FB31T8, or F32T8 retrofit? Youve come to the right place! Though we have hundreds of ballasts to choose from, we make it easy to find the right one for your application and budget. Just select three things: How many lamps you need to operate, which start method you need, and how much light output you want.

Number of Lamps

The number of lamps your fixture is operating changes what ballast you need. Whether using fewer lamps for an aisle lighter or more for high bays and warehouse lighting, 1000Bulbs.com has what you need at an affordable price.

Start Method

Are you installing your ballast in an office, warehouse, or retail space? Since these areas require infrequent switching, select an instant start ballast. Is your new ballast going in a hallway, stairwell, bathroom, or anywhere controlled by an occupancy sensor? Select a programmed start ballast to better handle the frequent on/off switching in these applications.

Ballast Factor / Light Output

Choose a low ballast factor (less than 0.77) to save energy and reduce light output. Ideal for hallways and bathrooms.

Choose a normal ballast factor (0.77 to 1.1) to operate your lamps at or near their rated light output. Ideal for most applications, including offices and retail stores.

Choose a high ballast factor (above 1.1) to overdrive your lamps for up to 10% more light output. Ideal for warehouses and areas with high ceilings.

1 Lamp - T8 - Electronic Fluorescent Ballasts

These ballasts operate one T8 lamp measuring 2, 3, or 4 feet in length. Ballasts with an indoor location rating should be used in dry locations only. Damp location rated ballasts can be used in areas where moisture is present or outdoors as long as the ballast is protected from contact with water. F32T8 ballasts with a NEMA premium label have meet CEE (Consortium for Energy Efficiency) high performance and efficiency standards.

Instant Start vs. Programmed Start

We have F17T8, F25T8, and F32T8 ballasts available in two start methods: instant start and programmed start. Instant start ballasts are ideal for lamps that are left on for long periods of time, and are commonly used in warehouses, offices, and retail spaces. These ballasts are considered the most efficient since they use less energy than other types of ballasts. Instant start ballasts use a high surge of 600 Volts to start the fluorescent lamp.

Programmed start ballasts are a better choice for areas where lamps will be turned on and off frequently such as stairwells, bathrooms, and hallways. The ballast first pre-heats the cathodes and then applies the voltage in order to start the lamps. This two stage operation helps to prolong the life of the lamp. To further increase the lamp life span, programed start ballasts can be paired with occupancy sensors.

Not sure which type of ballast is a good match for your lamp? Call 1-800-624-4488 today to speak with one of our helpful lighting experts!