If you’re like most Florida homeowners, you’ve got those long tube lights (called fluorescents) in your garage, workshop, or even closets and kitchens. Maybe they flicker. Maybe they hum. Maybe you’re wondering if it’s finally time to switch to LED.
Let’s walk through it—honestly, simply, and with real numbers—so you can decide if switching makes sense for you.
The Cost: What Will I Really Pay When Switching From Fluorescent to LED?
Here’s what it costs to run two 4-foot fluorescent tubes vs. two 4-foot LED tubes over 10 years, based on 6 hours of use per day and Florida’s average electric rate (about 15 cents per kWh).
| Cost Over 10 Years | Fluorescent Lights | LED Lights |
| Upfront bulb cost | $8 (2 tubes) | $50 (2 tubes) |
| Ballast replacement (2 times) | $60 | $0 (LEDs don’t need ballasts) |
| Electricity | $500 | $240 |
| Bulb replacements | $20 (5x) | $0 |
| Disposal fees (mercury) | $10 | $0 |
| Total 10-Year Cost | $598 | $290 |
LEDs cost more at first, but over time they save you over $300—that’s money in your pocket and worth the switch!
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What’s a Ballast, and Why Should I Care?
Fluorescent tubes need a part called a ballast to work. It controls the current. These ballasts wear out every 5 years or so and cost about $30 each to replace, plus labor if you’re not doing it yourself.
LEDs don’t need ballasts. That means fewer parts to break and less money spent on repairs.
What About Disposal of Fluorescent Bulbs?
Fluorescent bulbs contain mercury, a toxic metal that’s harmful to people and the environment. You can’t throw them in the trash. In Florida, businesses are required to recycle them (and they may charge a small disposal fee to cover costs), and even households are usually required to do the same.
Most counties have drop-off centers, but it takes time and may cost a few dollars per bulb. LEDs don’t contain mercury and are usually safe to toss or recycle.
What Do the Laws Say?
Here in Florida, fluorescent lights aren’t banned yet—but things are changing fast:
- Other states like California, Colorado, and Vermont are banning fluorescent tubes as early as this year.
- These laws are happening because of mercury concerns and energy waste.
- The federal government may follow in the next few years.
Florida isn’t there yet, but if you want to future-proof your garage, LED is the smart move.
Other Benefits of LED
- Instant On: No more flickering or waiting.
- Cooler & Quieter: No heat or buzzing.
- Longer Lasting: One LED tube can last 20+ years in a home garage (this isn’t fool-proof. Like other products, there is the possibility of a shorter life-span depending on usage).
- Better Light: Bright, even light that’s easier on the eyes.
- Color Choices: Warmer and cooler colors are available.
Here’s why LED is the perfect choice.
How To Switch From Fluorescent To LED
Switching from fluorescent to LED lighting in Florida is a simple, energy-efficient upgrade that starts with assessing your current fixtures.
If you have traditional fluorescent tubes, you can either retrofit them using compatible LED tube replacements (check for ballast compatibility) or remove the ballast entirely and install direct-wire LED tubes.
For best results, consult a licensed electrician to ensure compliance with local building codes and safety standards.
Is LED Not Needed?
There are a few situations where you might hold off on switching from fluorescent to LED:
- You rarely use your garage or other area where you have fluorescents —just a few minutes a day? The energy savings may not add up fast.
- Your current fluorescents are still working well, and the ballast is fine? No rush—wait until they fail.
- You’re planning to move soon? Let the next homeowner upgrade.
If any of these sound like you, you can wait. But if you’re seeing flickering, high power bills, or your lights are aging out, switching now makes sense.
Bottom Line: Is LED Right for You?
If you…
- Use your garage often
- Hate replacing bulbs
- Want to save money long term
- Care about the environment
- Live in Florida and want to stay ahead of the law
…then switching to LED is probably the best choice you can make today.
Yes, it costs a little more upfront. But in just 2 years, you’ll have made that money back—and you’ll keep saving for years to come.
What to Do Next
- Count how many tubes you have.
- Look for LED retrofit kits or new LED shop lights.
- Skip the ballast—buy LED tubes that don’t need one (be sure to disconnect the ballast)
- Recycle your old fluorescent bulbs at a local drop-off.
Need help figuring out which LEDs work with your current fixtures? Want to know where to recycle in Hillsborough or Manatee County, Florida? Just ask—we’re here to help.