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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.