How to Replace a Fluorescent Light Panel

If you’re going green and had your incandescent light bulbs replaced by a fluorescent light panel, the time might come when you need to change them. Fluorescent lights are green because they use less energy and still provide bright illumination. In contrast, incandescent lights use more energy because more of the electric power being used turns into heat rather than light.

Incandescent lights have simple ends that are screwed into the light sockets. However, fluorescent lights are long tubes with two prongs at each end and both ends need to be inserted into the tube sockets located at the ends of the light panel. Before going to the store to buy replacement fluorescent lights, be sure to take correct measurements of the tube. Fluorescent tubes come in many sizes and an inaccurate measurement of the tube might result in an unnecessary second trip back to the store.

Step 1 – Knowing when to Replace

You will know when the fluorescent lights need to be changed because one or more lights will begin to flicker. We recommend replacing the flickering tube as soon as possible because it will cause the fixture’s starter insulation to wear out. If this happens, you will need to replace the starter.

Step 2 - Out with the Old

Standing on a chair or ladder underneath the fluorescent light panel then reach for one of the fluorescent light tubes. Twist the tube until the prongs unlock from the light sockets from both ends and slip off the tube from the sockets. If you have a willing assistant, give the light tube to him/her before reaching up to dislodge a second light tube, if needed. If you’re a lone ranger, make sure that the first light tube is in a safe position on the floor before going back for additional light tubes. One word of caution, do not break old fluorescent light tubes and dispose of them safely. If broken, there is danger of contamination from mercury. Clean up broken pieces wearing safety gloves, and wipe the area clean.

Step 3 – Measure the Light Tubes

If you don’t know the measurement of the light tubes offhand because the interval between changing fluorescent light tubes are too long, now is the time to take an accurate measurement of the light tubes. We do not recommend eye-balling it. Stores carry all different sizes of fluorescent light tubes and it can be hard to select which one from a cursory examination.

Step 4 – In with the New

If you are ready to put in the new fluorescent tubes, take out a new tube from its casing. Stand up on a chair or ladder high enough to reach the light panel. Line up the new light tube close to the two sockets at each end. Slide in the prongs on each end into the two sockets, then twist in order to lock it into place.

The US Department of Energy states that fluorescent lights use 75% less energy than incandescent lights. Enjoy the savings!