T5HO High bay on 10' ceiling

[m123]

Narrow Beam vs Wide Beam T5/T8

I purchased a bunch of 4 lamp T5HO shop fixures with bulbs included at Menards with a coupon for $89, with 15% off everything, so for roughly $75 each ready to install(HBL454T5HO) I had always heard the T5HO were the best, so because of the great deal, I couldn't pass it up. I thought I could make them work in my 35x40 shop. However, my ceiling height is only 10'.

I put a couple up and don't really like them. After investigation it appears these are what is referred to as narrow beam. Based on what people are saying about high bay lights and being more focused, the light is more direct and not as dispersed. So I guess I'm going to take them back.

My question is about "narrow beam" and "wide beam". If I were to get "wide beam" or "wide distribution" fixtures then I understand for a 10' ceiling I should be happier because the light shines outward more? Just want to clarify this as I can't find much on this specific terminology.

 

[nsula_country]

T5's are not recommended below 15'. They are designed for "High Bay" applications, like replacements for HPS and MH fixtures.

T8's will be an excellent choice. With only 10' to work with, surface mount fixtures would be best. 8' T8 tandem fixtures (4 bulb) would be my 1st choice. These are omni-directional and will throw light evenly. About $50 ea.

CT

 

[86turbodsl]

I have T5HO at about 13.5 ft, and i like it, and notice no spotlight effect, but i sure wouldn't do it on a 10' ceiling either. Too low.

 

[Radix2]

For your price range, there are all sort of thin LED panels that are frosted lens - how many lumens are you looking for per panel ?

http://www.ledlightingwholesaleinc.com/LEDone-LED-Flat-Panel-1x4-Foot-40-Watt-p/lod-14pl-40w.htm

http://www.beeslighting.com/product...5c4201&gdfms=47FA7CE6CE8E4FB381D001FBA5C8FDE7

 

[cj7jeep81]

Re: Narrow Beam vs Wide Beam T5/T8

Not much to add except is that coupon available anywhere? I have those exact lights in my shop (although ceiling height closer to 17') and would love to get a couple more.

 

[matt_i]

I have the 4 bulb T5HO bought from Amazon that I use here and there, ceiling is either 10'4 or 11' and I am very happy with them, have made many projects go easier for me. These are sold as "grow lights" and I'm not growing anything other than a bigger pile of tools on the bench But that said, I'm not sure if there is a different color temp in these tubes that makes them more agreeable to the eye. All I can say without researching is they aren't the 6500K blue white light.

I do use them for lighting specific task areas and not using them in a group array to light up the entire shop. I think one can get good general lighting for less wattage/amperage input with the LEDs. PLus the LEDs insta-start in the cold, not so for anything fluorescent.

 

[nsula_country]

I do recommend 5000K. Not 6500k, fluorescent or LED... 5000K is very natural, daylight appearing. Let us know what you decide on.

CT