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Bright Source LED T8 Tube Review: Efficient daylight replacement for fittings

Bright Source 4ft (1199mm) 18w LED T8 Tube, 1800lm, 6000K Daylight White, Replacement for 36w T8 Fluorescent, Starter Included - Direct Mains or for use with Switch Start Fitting with Magnetic Ballast
4.7
[Dual Wiring Options]  Fits switch-start magnetic ballast or direct 240V mains for flexible, easy installation.
[Easy Retrofit Fit]  Direct replacement for standard T8 LFL G13 sockets, installs in existing fluorescent fittings.
[Durable Construction]  Impact-resistant polycarbonate and lightweight aluminium ensure a robust, long-lasting build.
[High Energy Efficiency]  Up to 2.5× more efficient than fluorescent tubes, lowering energy consumption and costs.
[Long Life & Warranty]  30,000-hour lifespan with zero maintenance; 1-year warranty plus 2-year extension upon registration.
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Home LED lighting that replaces 36W fluorescent T8 tubes while delivering stable 6000K daylight white and flicker-free output. Bright Source LED T8 Tube brings longer life and lower maintenance to workshops and utility spaces. Is retrofitting older switch-start fittings preferable to re-wiring for direct mains in your property?

⚡ At a Glance
  • Light Output: 1800lm at 6000K daylight white, flicker-free
  • Best for: Workshops, garages, utility rooms and commercial corridors replacing 36W T8 fluorescents
  • Not ideal for: Spaces that prefer warm or dimmable lighting options

Delivers bright 1800 lumens of 6000K daylight-white illumination. Designed to fit standard T8 G13 sockets for straightforward retrofit.


Lower running costs – thanks to up to 2.5 times higher efficiency

The tube uses 18W to produce 1800lm, achieving greater luminous efficacy than a 36W fluorescent by converting more input power into light rather than heat. The specification notes up to 2.5 times greater efficiency versus fluorescent counterparts.

Reduced electricity consumption makes a noticeable difference in areas with long daily operating hours, cutting ongoing energy use.

Flexible installation – with single-ended wiring for multiple fitting types

Single-ended wiring is compatible with switch-start fittings that retain a magnetic ballast and a starter, and can also be wired direct to 240V mains by bypassing existing control gear. A starter is supplied to aid retrofit into many existing fittings.

Allows either a quick swap into older switch-start fixtures or a permanent direct-wired solution where preferred, avoiding wholesale replacement of fittings.

Robust, low-maintenance lighting – with impact-resistant polycarbonate and aluminium

Construction pairs impact-resistant polycarbonate with lightweight aluminium for structural strength and heat dissipation. The build contributes to a typical average life of around 30,000 hours.

Handles workshop knocks and reduces replacement frequency, while offering a warranty extension option through online registration.

✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Bright Source LED T8 Tube
  1. Energy efficiency – Up to 2.5 times more efficient than fluorescent tubes
  2. Wide compatibility – Works with switch-start fittings or direct 240V mains wiring
  3. Multiple sizes and colours – Available from 2ft to 6ft with three colour temperatures
  4. Starter included – Supplied starter simplifies retrofit into many existing fittings
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
  • Category: Home lighting, LED T8 tube
  • Light Output: 1800lm
  • Wattage: 18W
  • Colour Temperature: 6000K Daylight White
  • Replacement for: 36W T8 fluorescent
❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the tube fit my existing switch-start T8 fittings?

A: Yes. Single-ended wiring makes the tube compatible with switch-start fittings that have a magnetic ballast and starter, and a starter is supplied to help with retrofit.

Q: Can the tube be wired direct to mains instead of using the ballast?

A: Yes. Direct 240V mains wiring is possible by bypassing any control gear within the existing fitting, offering an alternative installation method.

Q: What warranty coverage is included?

A: A one year warranty is included, with an additional two years available after registering the product online.

🏆 Our Verdict

Homeowners, tradespeople and small businesses needing reliable, bright lighting for garages, workshops and corridors will find the tube well suited. Strong lumen output combined with simple retrofit or direct-wiring options makes it an effective replacement for older 36W T8 fluorescents. Energy savings and reduced maintenance give clear long-term value.