please explain lighting

Okay I understand that the T means the size of the bulb but will t5, t8, t10, t12 fit into any fluorescent fixture or is there something I'm missing?

I am trying to build a diy light to add to mine but I have no idea where to begin.

can someone please help?

thanks

 

I'm pretty sure that T8,T10, and T12 are all the same with different diameters.

T5's have the same (maybe smaller) diameter of T8's but require different endcaps and a different ballast.

So T8,T10,T12 can be ran on the common fixtures found at home improvement stores while T5's can't. I don't recommend the common fixtures for canopies though as the endcaps can rust.

 

Well I thought about the rust and they now sell these cool clear tubes that cover the bulb and the end caps. I am just doing some searching before I make any decisions. I'm doing it right now...do all the homework I can then decide.

thanks for explaining.

 

I really wouldn't mess with the T8's, t10's, or T12's for marine life, they shift colors very fast. Invest in a nice system and you'll be set for a while.