F32T8 - 4100 Kelvin - T8 Linear Fluorescent Tubes

Fluorescent 700 & 800 Series Lamps

The original halophosphate fluorescent lamps were bright enough as lamps, but the simple phosphors used had very poor color rendering (from the mid-50s to 70s). Tri-phosphor lamps, like the 700 series, use three different phosphors to provide lighting in three color spectrums visible to the human eye - specifically, the red, green, and blue wavelengths of the spectrum. By emphasizing only the colors actually visible to the human eye, triphosphate lamps improve CRI tremendously.

T8 700 Series Ban

Since July 14, 2014, all T8 700 series fluorescent lamps failed to meet the new minimum energy ratings and will no longer be produced. The new ratings increased the minimum allowable values for lumen efficacy (lumens-per-watt), wattage, and minimum color rendering for each lamp. Again, all this phase out does is prevent manufacturers from making 700 series lamps. Existing lamps are still viable for sale. It might be worthwhile to consider stocking up on 700 series fluorescent tubes since they'll no longer be available once all current inventory has been sold.

Upgrading to 800 Series T8 Fluorescent Tubes

Most T8 lamps can simply be upgraded to a more efficient 800 series lamp without any fixture changes. Upgrading should be relatively easy and will end with more energy efficient lamps or improvements in color rendering. Since rare-earth metals are difficult to extract and refine - exceptionally high purity is required - the price of the 800 series lamp may be slightly higher, but the increase in CRI can be well worth the added cost.