Fluorescent lighting has become more and more popular not only for commercial and industrial applications but also in residential applications such as homes, garages, and backyard shops.
Fluorescent lighting offers many benefits when compared to incandescent lights. They are less expensive to operate which means they do not use as much electricity as standard lighting. They also last about ten times longer than incandescent lights, so you do not need to purchase these light bulbs as often. In addition, the light itself does not produce as much heat as an incandescent bulb. They are cool to the touch, so you do not burn your fingers when replacing them.
There are many different types of fluorescent lights available. The most popular version is the compact fluorescent light bulbs which look like coiled tubes. The T12 and T8 bulbs are used in long panels mounted on the ceiling.
Just light any other type of light, fluorescent lights will need to be replaced. When this occurs, you need to know the type of fluorescent bulb socket used in the lamp to know the type of replacement tube. Any lamp that uses the wrong fluorescent bulb socket can melt and cause a fire.
All fluorescent bulb sockets are available in either low or tall profiles, or sometimes it is called a tombstone. The profile just determines how tall the socket is. They are then grouped into shunted or non-shunted sockets.
Typically, it is not easy to determine the difference between the sockets. Many can be identified by the number of wires going into the base. However, the best way to test the socket type is to use a voltage meter.
Knowing which type of socket to use when replacing fluorescent bulb sockets is important for your safety. Always follow proper safety protocols when working with electricity and replacing fluorescent bulb sockets.
