Do I need/want H.O. fixtures?

[SUPERFORD]

Ok, so:

I think I've got the T5 vs T8 thing figured out.
I think I've got a handle on kelvin/color temp.
I think I've got the where to purchase fixtures figured out.

Now, the next question is. Should I get H.O. (high output) fixtures?

They seem to create more heat (can affect mounting as some require chain mounting for 6" ceiling clearance for proper cooling).

They use more energy.

They are harder to find bulbs for (or have smaller selection of bulbs)

They are brighter.

They cost more.

But do I need or want H.O.???
is standard T8 with a good bulb going to be sufficient or do I want H.O. ?

any opinions?

 

[chickenhauler]

I did the 8' Lithonia/Home Depot 4 bulb t8's for the price and because it's easier to get replacements.
I thought originally that I'd go with HO, but couldn't find an affordable fixture with decent reviews. If I don't have enough light, I can always add more and still be under the cost of the HO.

 

[SUPERFORD]

If I don't have enough light, I can always add more and still be under the cost of the HO.

so I guess the question is, do you have enough light with your existing standard t8s? or do you need/want more?

 

[boosteddsm92]

I did the 8' Lithonia/Home Depot 4 bulb t8's for the price and because it's easier to get replacements.
I thought originally that I'd go with HO, but couldn't find an affordable fixture with decent reviews. If I don't have enough light, I can always add more and still be under the cost of the HO.

+1
I used these too, 16 of them, and love them so far. One ballast went in under a year but 1/16 isn't bad. I wanted the 8' fixtures to lessen the number of fixtures needed but wanted them to use 4' bulbs for convenience.

 

[chickenhauler]

so I guess the question is, do you have enough light with your existing standard t8s? or do you need/want more?

By the time I can let you know, you'll probably have already decided on yours. I'm still setting trusses

 

[Duane]

Something to keep in mind is that as we age we need more and more light.
I am 48 and I cannot get enough light. I went with 6 T12 HO 8ft fixtures with electronic ballasts in my 20 by 30 ft space with 8.5 ft ceiling and tube protectors. This may be hard to understand when you are in your 20,s and 30,s but in your 40,s you will know what I mean.

Duane

 

[tfi racing]

What will be your ambient(usual)temperature you need the lights to function at?That is the deciding factor whether or not to use the much more expensive,hard to find, and in some cases,less reliable HO lamps and ballasts.

 

[SUPERFORD]

the garage space will be conditioned.

I'd estimate no lower than 58 in the winter and no higher than 75 the summer?