How to Choose the Right High Output Fluorescent Lamps for Your Signs

High output fluorescent lamps are a great way to improve the visibility of your signs.

But how do you know which ones to choose?

Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting high output fluorescent lamps for your signs:

1. Size and shape

Make sure the lamps you choose are the right size and shape for your sign. You don’t want them to be too small or too big.

Most fluorescent lamps used in signs are high output (HO) lamps. The most common HO fluorescent lamp sizes are T5, T8, and T12. The letters T and the number following it refer to the diameter of the lamp in eighths of an inch. So, a T8 lamp is eight-eighths of an inch in diameter, or one inch. A T12 lamp is twelve-eighths of an inch in diameter, or 1.5 inches. A T5 lamp is five-eighths of an inch in diameter, or 0.625 inches.

The wattage of HO fluorescent lamps can range from 14 watts to 150 watts. The most common wattages are T5 (34 watts), T8 (32 watts), and T12 (40 watts).

The lumen output of HO fluorescent lamps can range from 1,500 lumens to 28,000 lumens. The most common lumen outputs are T5 (2,500 lumens), T8 (3,500 lumens), and T12 (4,100 lumens).

The length of HO fluorescent lamps can range from 4 inches to 8 feet. The most common lengths are T5 (4 feet), T8 (8 feet), and T12 (8 feet).

When choosing HO fluorescent lamps for your signs, it is important to consider both the size and shape of the lamps. The size of the lamp will determine the wattage, lumen output, and length. The shape of the lamp will determine the type of sign it is best suited for.

T5 lamps are the smallest HO fluorescent lamps and are best suited for small signs. T8 lamps are the next largest and are best suited for medium-sized signs. T12 lamps are the largest HO fluorescent lamps and are best suited for large signs.

The most common shapes of HO fluorescent lamps are linear (straight), u-shaped, and c-shaped. Linear lamps are best suited for signs that are one or two-sided. U-shaped lamps are best suited for three-sided signs. C-shaped lamps are best suited for signs that are four-sided or more.

2. Wattage

Choose lamps with the appropriate wattage for your sign. Higher wattage means more light, but it also means higher energy costs.

If you’re looking for a high output fluorescent lamp for your sign, you’ll need to consider the wattage. Wattage is a measure of the amount of power the lamp uses, and it’s important to choose a lamp with the right wattage for your sign.

Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing the right wattage for your high output fluorescent lamp:

The size of your sign: A larger sign will need a more powerful lamp, so you’ll need to choose a lamp with a higher wattage.

The brightness of your sign: If you want a brighter sign, you’ll need to choose a lamp with a higher wattage.

The type of sign: Some signs, such as those that are backlit, require more power and thus a higher wattage lamp.

Your sign’s power source: If your sign is powered by a battery, you’ll need to choose a lamp with a lower wattage so that the battery will last longer.

Keep these things in mind when choosing the wattage for your high output fluorescent lamp, and you’ll be sure to choose the right one for your sign.

3. Color temperature

Consider the color temperature of the lamps you choose. Warm white lamps tend to be more inviting, while cool white lamps are more energizing.

When you are looking for high output fluorescent lamps for your signs, you need to consider the color temperature of the light. The color temperature is the measure of the light’s color that is emitted from the lamp and is measured in Kelvin (K). The lower the Kelvin rating, the warmer the light will be; the higher the Kelvin rating, the cooler the light will be.

Most high output fluorescent lamps have a color temperature of 4100K or higher. This is because the higher color temperatures produce a whiter light, which is ideal for signs that need to be highly visible.

If you are unsure of what color temperature you need, you can always ask the experts at your local sign shop. They will be able to help you choose the right high output fluorescent lamp for your signs.

4. Bulb life

Choose lamps with a long bulb life so you don’t have to replace them as often.

When it comes to choosing the right high output fluorescent lamps for your signs, one of the most important factors to consider is bulb life. High output fluorescent lamps are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and wattages, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right high output fluorescent lamp for your signs:

1. Consider the sign’s size and shape. High output fluorescent lamps come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to choose one that will fit your sign.

2. Consider the sign’s location. If your sign is located in a high-traffic area, you’ll want to choose a high output fluorescent lamp that has a long bulb life.

3. Consider the sign’s purpose. If your sign is for general lighting, you’ll want to choose a high output fluorescent lamp with a lower wattage. If your sign is for special effects or display purposes, you’ll want to choose a high output fluorescent lamp with a higher wattage.

4. Consider the sign’s budget. High output fluorescent lamps are available in a variety of price ranges, so it’s important to choose one that fits your budget.

5. Consider the sign’s maintenance requirements. High output fluorescent lamps require less maintenance than other types of lighting, so it’s important to consider this when making your decision.

By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the right high output fluorescent lamp for your sign.

5. Price

Don’t forget to factor in the cost of the lamps when making your decision. By keeping these things in mind, you can be sure to choose the right high output fluorescent lamps for your signs.