"mywebaccts (at) PLUGcomcast.net" "mywebaccts (at) PLUGcomcast.net" writes:

The discussion of the use of T5/T8 5000 lights sparked my interest - as
I had no idea what it was - and I've found tons of information on the
internet about it. But as usual, weeding through the contradictions is
always difficult.

Some people seem to view the T5 as superior to the T8, both in energy
usage and in output. Then I've also found pages saying it isn't true.

I'm actively researching lighting for my new shop right now.

I found a government report on ligghting and energy use. They actually
say the T8 is more energy efficient than T5 in many applications. A
popular energy saving application for T5 is the replacement of high bay
lighting in factories and warehouses.

I found that 96" (actually 92" I believe) T5 fixtures cost about twice
what 96" T8 fixtures. 96" T8 strip fixtures for two bulbs cost $58 to $65
or so. The only 96" T5 strip fixtures I could find were $121 each plus
the bulbs are very expensive.

T8 96" bulbs are 59 watts and T5 96" watt bulbs are 54 watts. I am
certainly not going to pay twice as much to save 10 watts per fixture. I
could save about 10 cents every 100 hours the fixture is used.

If anyone has any insight on where to buy the F96T8 strip fixtures for two
bulbs, I would appreciate it. So far, I know Grainger has them for about
$63 each with no shipping. I am also going to try the electrical supply
houses. Shipping on 96" fixtures isn't really worth it.

Brian Elfert