LED Tube Ballast Compatibility

Switching from fluorescent to LED tubes? Before you buy, check whether your existing ballast is compatible with Feit Electric Type A (plug-and-play) LED tubes - or whether you need a Type B (ballast bypass) or Type AB (hybrid) tube instead.

What Is Ballast Compatibility?

Fluorescent fixtures use a ballast to regulate electrical current to the tube. When upgrading to LED tubes, compatibility depends on your ballast type, age, and condition. If your ballast is compatible, you can use a Type A plug-and-play LED tube - no rewiring needed. If not, you'll need to bypass the ballast entirely with a Type B direct wire tube, or use a Type AB hybrid that works with or without a ballast.

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Is Your Ballast Compatible?

Ensuring ballast compatibility is essential for optimizing the performance and efficiency of lighting systems. By selecting the appropriate ballast type, considering the ballast factor, and accounting for environmental conditions, users can enhance the longevity and effectiveness of their lighting solutions.

Download Ballast Compatibility List

Updated March 2026

Installation Types

Type A, Type B & Type AB LED Tubes Explained

Type A

Plug and Play

Works with your existing compatible ballast. No rewiring required – just swap the fluorescent tube for an LED tube. Fastest installation, but the ballast still draws power and will eventually need replacement.

Best for:

Quick upgrades where the ballast is confirmed compatible and in good condition.

How to Install Type A Tubes
Type B

Ballast Bypass

Requires removing the ballast and wiring line voltage directly to the sockets. More installation time upfront, but eliminates the ballast entirely – meaning lower energy use and zero ballast maintenance going forward.

Best for:

Long-term retrofits, aging ballasts, or facilities where maintenance reduction matters.

How to Bypass a Ballast
Type AB

Hybrid

Works both ways – plug-and-play with a compatible ballast today, or direct wire after ballast removal later. One tube, two installation options. No need to buy a different tube when the ballast eventually fails.

Best for:

Phased retrofits, mixed-ballast facilities, or anyone who wants future-proof flexibility.

How to Install Type A/B LED Tubes

How to Find Your Ballast Model Number

Your ballast model number is printed on a label on the ballast itself, usually visible once you open the fixture cover. To find it, turn off power at the breaker, remove the tubes, open the fixture cover, and read the label on the ballast.

01
Turn off the breaker that powers the fixture. Verify power is off with a voltage tester.
02
Remove the fluorescent tubes by rotating them 90 degrees and pulling down.
03
Open or remove the fixture cover to expose the ballast (usually a rectangular metal box).
04
Locate the ballast label — note the manufacturer name and model number (e.g., 'Advance ICN-2P32-N').
05
Search for your model in the Feit Electric Ballast Compatibility List.
Upgrades

Explore LED Tube Lights by Installation Type

Whether you're going plug-and-play, direct wire, or hybrid — Feit Electric has a tube that fits your fixture and your timeline.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is ballast compatibility?
Ballast compatibility refers to whether your existing fluorescent ballast can power a Type A LED tube without rewiring. Compatibility depends on the ballast brand, model, age, and condition.
What is the difference between Type A, Type B, and Type AB LED tubes?
Type A (plug-and-play) works with your existing ballast — no rewiring needed. Type B (direct wire) bypasses the ballast entirely and wires directly to line voltage. Type AB (hybrid) works both ways — with or without a ballast.
How do I know if my ballast is compatible with LED tubes?
Locate the model number on your ballast label, then check it against the Feit Electric Ballast Compatibility List. If your model is listed, a Type A plug-and-play LED tube will work. If not, use a Type B direct wire or Type AB hybrid tube.
Where do I find my ballast model number?
Turn off the breaker, remove the fluorescent tubes, and open the fixture cover. The ballast is a rectangular metal box inside the fixture — the model number is printed on a label on its side.
Do I need to rewire my fixture to switch to LED tubes?
Not necessarily. If your ballast is compatible, Type A plug-and-play LED tubes require zero rewiring. Only Type B direct wire tubes require bypassing the ballast, which should be done by a qualified electrician.
Download Ballast Compatibility List