T8 Vs. T12 Fluorescent Light Fixtures for Kitchens

Size

• T12 and T8 fluorescent lights are available in the same lengths, so anywhere a T12 fixture will fit, a T8 fixture can be used instead. The difference between the two sizes is the diameter of the bulbs. The "T" part of the bulb designation stands for "tube," so any bulb designated as "T" followed by a number is a fluorescent tube and not some other type of bulb. The number indicates the diameter of the bulb in eighths of an inch. A T8 bulb 8/8 inch in diameter, or 1 inch across. A T12 bulb is 12/8 inch in diameter, or 1 1/2 inches across.

Quality

• T8 fixtures have electronic ballasts instead of magnetic ones. The ballast is the part of the fixture that controls the electrical output of the fixture. With an electronic ballast, lights come on quicker and they don't flicker. Although not usually a problem in a kitchen setting, T12 bulbs will only start when the environment is warm enough -- over 60 degrees Fahrenheit in many cases. T8 bulbs have the capability of starting in much colder temperatures, making them a good choice if the kitchen might be cold on occasion. In terms of brightness, the T8 bulbs give off slightly more light than the T12 bubs do but not enough to be noticeable to the human eye.

Energy Use

• One of the main reasons to use T8 fixtures in the kitchen instead of T12 is the energy savings provided by the newer, energy-efficient T8 lights. A 32-watt T8 bulb provides as much light as the 40-watt T12 bulbs do, but T8 bulbs are both smaller and more energy-efficient, resulting in a considerable power savings over time. Energy-efficient T12 bulbs are also available, but they are not as effective as the T8 type, though they may a good choice for a kitchen that already has T12 fixtures installed.

Fixture Size

• The T12 fixtures are thicker, or deeper, than the T8 fixtures, which means that a kitchen with T12 fluorescent light fixtures in it has to devote more space to the T12 fixtures. If the fixtures are to be recessed, they take up more room in the space above the ceiling, potentially affecting other fixtures, wiring and insulation. If the T12 fixtures hang down from the ceiling, they offer less head room. The T8 fixtures take up less space because they aren't as deep, so they fit better into more situations.