sinister wrote:
Light went out in the bathroom. It's a 48" 25W T12 GE fluorescent bulb.

I can get one online, but I'd rather rush it and buy one in a brick and
mortar store. Problem is that they only have 32W and 40W. Does that
matter?

TIA,

S

What is the actual label printed on the bulb?
Is something like F48T12CW?

GE Utility Shoplite
F48"/25W/UTSL
25W
USA
Hg


Those 25w tubes are actually just 40w tubes with electrodes optimized
for lower power. They will run on a 40w ballast, but with shortened
life.

It's likely this fixture has a cheap uncorrected residential 40w
ballast in it, and some previous owner/tenant that didn't know better
put the 25w tube in there. Your best bet would be the 40w tube then.
I would avoid those 25w tubes at all costs unless you have a 25w
shoplite that specifically says it can use them. They're only really
designed for low power use in those 25w shoplites.

Yes, I have seen 32w tubes in these types of ballasts with little ill
effect. These residential ballasts do actually underpower even a 40w
tube somewhat, and a 32w T8 tube have a higher operating voltage and
will be only slightly overpowered.

When all set and done, I would not chance a 34w tube in any
residential ballast unless it specifically says it can use them.
That's because 34w tubes have a different gas misture and cheap
uncorrected residental ballasts will severly overheat.