LED U-Bend Bulbs
Upgrade Your Fluorescent Lighting with U-Shaped LED Bulbs, also known as LED U-Bend Tubes
Commonly used in 2x2 troffer fixtures found in offices, hospitals, retail spaces, and schools, U-shaped light bulbs are a compact and efficient solution for tight lighting layouts. Whether you're maintaining an existing fluorescent system or upgrading to LED, 1000Bulbs.com has you covered with a wide range of U-shaped fluorescent tubes and LED U-bend replacements.
U-Shaped Fluorescent Tubes vs. LED U-Bend Bulbs
Traditional U-shaped fluorescent bulbs have long been valued for their uniform light output and compatibility with commercial ceiling grids. However, LED U-bend tubes offer significant upgrades:
- Use up to 50% less energy than fluorescent equivalents
- Lifespans of 50,000+ hours, reducing replacement frequency
- Instant-on performance with no warm-up time
- Mercury-free and environmentally friendly
- Available in shatter-resistant coatings for NSF-certified food prep areas
Leg Spacing & Fixture Compatibility
LED U-bend tubes come in two common leg spacings:
- 6-inch spacing – standard for many modern fixtures
- 1.625-inch spacing – compact fit for select designs
Make sure to match the spacing with your fixture to ensure proper fit and performance.
Installation Types: Plug-and-Play vs. Direct Wire
Plug-and-Play LED U-Bend Tubes:
The simplest solution. These tubes work with your existing electronic ballast—just verify compatibility using the product's Ballast Compatibility PDF under Brochures and Spec Sheets.
Direct Wire (Ballast Bypass):
Eliminate ballast failure and maintenance costs. These tubes connect directly to line voltage. Installation requires removing the existing ballast and using non-shunted sockets.
Note: Always check if your selected tube is rated for use in enclosed fixtures.
Ideal Applications for U-Shaped Light Bulbs
- Office buildings and government facilities
- Retail stores and checkout counters
- Healthcare and educational environments
- Kitchens and food prep areas (NSF-rated models)
- Drop ceilings and compact 2x2 lighting layouts
Need Help Choosing?
Whether you're deciding between plug-and-play or direct wire LED U-bends, or you're replacing older U-shaped fluorescent tubes, our product experts are here to help. Call us at 1-888-368-1290 for personalized support.