• There were many reasons for the change of the site software, the biggest was security. The age of the old software also meant no server updates for certain programs. There are many benefits to the new software, one of the biggest is the mobile functionality. Ill fix up some stuff in the coming days, we'll also try to get some of the old addons back or the data imported back into the site like the garage. To create a thread or to reply with a post is basically the same as it was in the prior software. The default style of the site is light colored, but i temporarily added a darker colored style, to change you can find a link at the bottom of the site.

Better garage lighting

T8 bulbs

will T8 bulbs work in older T12 fixtures? they seem to be the highest output, lumen -wise.
 
I'd look at adding fixtures rather than trying to maximize the output of the existing ones. Remember that the available light falls off as the square of the distance away. More fixtures over a wider area is better than stronger fixtures at one point. Recommended standards for workshops range from 56 lumens (~4 watts) per sq. ft for brightly colored walls and ceilings to 84 lumens (~6 watts) per sq. ft. for dark colored walls/ceilings. Look at your fixtures and go from there...and remember that the light output drops as the bulbs age.
 
adding two

I'd look at adding fixtures rather than trying to maximize the output of the existing ones. Remember that the available light falls off as the square of the distance away. More fixtures over a wider area is better than stronger fixtures at one point. Recommended standards for workshops range from 56 lumens (~4 watts) per sq. ft for brightly colored walls and ceilings to 84 lumens (~6 watts) per sq. ft. for dark colored walls/ceilings. Look at your fixtures and go from there...and remember that the light output drops as the bulbs age.
i think i'm going to add two 4 ' fixtures, that will be front, rear, left side, right side. also some kind of white ceiling. now, what kind of bulbs to use ?
 
In my 900sqft workshop I have 4 twin lamp 8' florescent lights,plenty of light and I find the 8' tubes are easier to change with just one pin on each end there is no twisting to get them in or out.
 
i think i'm going to add two 4 ' fixtures, that will be front, rear, left side, right side. also some kind of white ceiling. now, what kind of bulbs to use ?

Use T5 or T8 florescent bulbs. Do not use T12 bulbs or your fixtures will soon be obsolete. Make certain your new fixtures use electronic ballasts and not magnetic ballasts.

Consider LED lamps as well, they're more expensive up front but will save you money in the long run.
 
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adding two

Use T5 or T8 florescent bulbs. Do not use T12 bulbs or your fixtures will soon be obsolete. Make certain your new fixtures use electronic ballasts and not magnetic ballasts.

Consider LED lamps as well, they're more expensive up front but will save you money in the long run.
i'm going to add two fixtures, one of which i have, one i will buy. i'll see how they do, and probably upgrade the bulbs to T8 's. i will add some white ceiling too.:thumbup: thanks to all for the help, and ideas.:bowdown:
 
WHAT A DIFFERENCE

i switched out one pair of the old T 12 flourecent bulbs for two T 8 6500 k bulbs. the difference is amazing.
i really wasn't expecting that. easily 50 % brighter. i also sprayed the reflectors with chrome ( silver ) paint.
i was sceptical, but now i believe. much more light for less power. i recomend everybody do this:thumbup: at 8 bucks a pair, it's money well spent.
 
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