How to Install an LED Tube in a Fluorescent Fitting with a Magnetic Ballast

If your existing fluorescent fitting uses a magnetic ballast and replaceable starter, a compatible LED tube can often be retrofitted by replacing the fluorescent tube and starter. This guide applies to suitable magnetic-ballast fittings only. Browse the current LED tube lights NZ range before choosing a tube.

Before You Start

Confirm the length of the existing tube and the ballast type. GreenLED's standard 4ft and 5ft T8 tubes are single-ended LED tubes and are supplied with an LED starter for suitable magnetic-ballast fittings.

Magnetic-Ballast Retrofit Steps

  1. Switch off the power before touching the fitting.
  2. Remove the old fluorescent tube.
  3. Remove the existing fluorescent starter and fit the LED starter supplied with the compatible GreenLED tube.
  4. Install the LED tube according to the product instructions and fitting orientation.
  5. Restore power only after the tube and starter are correctly installed.

What If There Is No Starter?

A fitting with no conventional replaceable starter may use an electronic ballast. Do not assume the magnetic-ballast retrofit steps apply. GreenLED's current tube instructions state that electronic-ballast fittings require the ballast to be bypassed or removed before these tubes are used.

Any rewiring or ballast bypass must be carried out by a licensed electrician. If you are uncertain, see our guide to identifying magnetic and electronic ballasts.

Why Choose the Premium 5ft Tube?

The premium 5ft LED tube is rated at 30W and 3900 lumens, with aluminium + milky PC construction and a 5-year replacement warranty. If 2400 lumens is sufficient, the standard 5ft tube is the more economical option.

Compare all sizes and outputs on the LED tube lights NZ collection.

Back to blog