Fluorescent Tubes

Most T8 and T5 fluorescent tubes have been phased out of the GB market following updated RoHS regulations, making LED tube replacements the practical solution for any fitting that previously used fluorescent lamps. Lyco stocks LED replacements for the most common T8 fluorescent tube sizes, including the widely used 4ft fluorescent tube at 1200mm, as well as a limited range of specialist fluorescent tubes that remain available under regulatory exemptions. 

Whether you need a direct LED equivalent or guidance on converting your fitting, browse below or see our LED T8 tubes collection for the full replacement range.

Find Fluorescent tubes at Lyco

The phase-out of standard fluorescent lamps under the UK's updated RoHS regulations removed T8 fluorescent tubes, T5 fluorescent tubes, and most compact fluorescent types from the GB market in 2023. New production has ceased, and while some distributor stock remains, quantities are finite and prices have risen significantly as supply has tightened. For anyone maintaining a building that relies on fluorescent tube replacements, this is not a supply chain issue that will resolve itself. The practical response is to identify the LED equivalent for each tube in use and convert fittings accordingly.

The good news is that the LED equivalents for most common fluorescent tube sizes are mature, widely available, and well-priced. A 4ft T8 LED tube replacement for a standard 36W fluorescent tube is one of the most commonly stocked products in the UK lighting market, and the specification process is straightforward: match the length, confirm the cap type (G13 for T8, G5 for T5), choose between ballast-compatible and direct-wire installation, and select the appropriate colour temperature.

A small number of fluorescent tube types retain availability under regulatory exemptions, including certain UV, speciality colour, and specific industrial-use tubes where equivalent LED alternatives are not yet commercially available. 

Lyco stocks these specialist types for buyers in security, horticulture, and industrial sectors who continue to need fluorescent lamp formats not yet superseded by LED. If you are looking for a specific specialist tube type and cannot find it, contact our technical team for availability, and our fluorescent tube LED replacement range covers the vast majority of standard commercial applications.

All orders over £70 qualify for free delivery, with same-day dispatch on in-stock products across both the fluorescent and LED tube ranges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are T8 fluorescent tubes still available?

Standard T8 fluorescent tubes for commercial general lighting use are no longer being placed on the GB market following the 2023 RoHS phase-out. Some distributor stock remains in circulation, but quantities are limited and availability is declining. 

For any ongoing maintenance need that previously relied on T8 tubes, LED T8 tube replacements are the practical alternative, as they fit the same lamp holders, use the same G13 cap, and are available in the same lengths, including the 1200mm (4ft) format.

How do I find the LED equivalent for my fluorescent tube?

The key parameters to match are tube length, cap type, and lumen output. 

• T8 tubes use a G13 cap and are available in 600mm (2ft), 900mm (3ft), 1200mm (4ft), 1500mm (5ft), and 1800mm (6ft) lengths. 

• T5 tubes use a G5 cap and come in lengths from 549mm to 1449mm. 

Once you have confirmed the length and cap type, select an LED tube in the same format. For lumen output, a standard 36W T8 fluorescent is typically replaced by an LED T8 drawing 14W–18W at equivalent brightness, so match the lumen output stated on the product page rather than the wattage.

What is the difference between T8 and T5 fluorescent tubes?

The "T" number refers to the tube diameter measured in eighths of an inch. A T8 tube is 26mm in diameter and uses a G13 bipin cap. A T5 tube is 16mm in diameter and uses a G5 cap. T5 tubes are more efficient than T8 for the same lumen output and are typically used in fittings where a slimmer profile is important. The two types are not interchangeable, as a T5 tube cannot be inserted into a T8 fitting. When sourcing a fluorescent tube LED replacement, confirm which type is in your fitting before ordering.

Can I use an LED tube in a fitting designed for fluorescent lamps?

Yes, with the right type of LED tube. 

• Ballast-compatible LED T8 tubes work with the electronic ballast already present in most post-1990 fluorescent fittings, so no rewiring is required. 

• Direct-wire LED tubes require the ballast to be bypassed by a qualified electrician but deliver better long-term efficiency. 

• Dual-mode tubes support both configurations. 

• For T5 fittings, compatible LED T5 tubes are also available. 

Always check the compatibility information on the product page and confirm the ballast type in your existing fitting before purchasing.

Are there any fluorescent tubes that are still being manufactured?

A small number of specialist fluorescent tube types retain exemptions under RoHS and continue to be manufactured where no viable LED alternative yet exists. Standard T8 and T5 general lighting tubes are not among these exceptions. 

Lyco stocks specialist fluorescent types where they remain available and useful; contact our technical team if you need a specific tube not visible in the standard product range.

Do you sell fluorescent tubes near me?

Lyco is an online lighting specialist delivering to all UK mainland addresses with next-working-day delivery as standard. Free delivery applies to all orders over £70. Same-day dispatch is available on in-stock products across both the fluorescent tube and LED tube replacement ranges.