T5 tubes in T12 fixtures?
 

Hello,
I was wondering if T5 tubes will fit in the standard "shop light" fixtures? I have one of those Park Gardn Condo plant lights...it has 2 48" fixtures, each can accomodate 2 48" tubes. Right now I just have the standard 40 watt, 48" tubes in them but I would like to increase the light. Do I need to get a whole new fixture if I want to use the T5 tubes or will they fit in my "shop light" fixtures?
Thanks,
Dan

No. Even if you could fit the tubes in, the ballast is wrong. The t5 tubes are shorter and skinnier. You'll need a t5 fixture with a t5 ballast.

Ok....thanks a bunch! =)
Dan

There are now retrofit kits that you can buy so you can use T5 bulbs in fixtures designed for T12 or T8 bulbs. You can find an example of these retrofit kits at Home | Lumiversal. They are a great and easy way to cheaply convert an old fixture so it can use more energy efficient T5 bulbs.

What kind if price are the retrofit kits?

I did a Google search and came up empty, but if you figure that that are marketed to building maintenance people as a way to lower air conditioning costs and reduce bulb replacement time and expense, I imagine they are pricey.

The kits are priced between 29.95 and 39.95, which is very affordable since you receive a T5 bulb and a new ballast.

I visited their site yesterday and left a request for a price quote. Have not gotten feedback yet.

richard, what vendor did you purchase the kit from? Looking online, I can't seem to find anything myself