Standard fluorescent tubes known as T8 tubes are less efficient than models such as T5 fluorescent tubes (a thinner tube that produces comparable light, and uses approximately 25% less electricity) and Quad phosphor T8 models (which produce more light, allowing businesses to operate with fewer lights, usually when aided by a light reflector).

Why
Replacing T8 tubes can save up to 25% of energy, or produce more light and/or allow the de-lamping of unneeded tubes.

How
Replace T8 fluorescent tubes with efficient T5 fluorescent tubes or Quad Phosphor T8 models (and de-lamp: See de-lamping hint and tip).

NB: T5 tubes require an adapter when being used with existing T8 fluorescent tube fittings. An electrician should be consulted if upgrading to a T5 adaptor .

How we calculate this

On average each Victorian small to medium business emit 68,300 kg CO2-e from electricity each year. Of this total 26.5% is attributed to lighting. It is assumed that approximately 75% of lighting is fluorescent. Upgrading from T8 tubes to T5 tubes can save 25% of emissions created by lighting. (68,300kg X 0.265 X 0.75 X 0.25 = 3393.9 kg)