A small tube light is often chosen for places where a full-size light feels unnecessary. Wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, bathrooms, and mirrors all need focused lighting, not overpowering brightness. This is where compact LED options work best.
Modern small tube light bulbs are simpler to install than older fluorescent models. They come as integrated units, which means there are no starters or chokes involved. If you understand basic wiring and follow safety steps, installation becomes a manageable DIY task even for beginners.
A small tube light is a compact linear lighting fixture that is shorter than the standard 4-foot household tube.
Most modern versions are LED-based and available in two common sizes:
1-foot length, usually around 5W
2-foot length, usually around 10W
These lights are designed as integrated battens. The light source and housing come as one sealed unit. Because of this design, they are lighter, safer, and easier to mount than older small fluorescent lights.
They are commonly used as under-cabinet lights, wardrobe lights, mirror lights, staircase lights, and display lighting. A small LED tube light for bathroom use is especially popular because it provides clear visibility without taking up space.
Before starting, gather everything you need. This avoids stopping midway with exposed wiring.
Essential tools
Voltage tester or line tester
Screwdriver
Drilling machine with drill bits
Wire stripper or cutter
Combination pliers
Materials
Electrical insulation tape or wire nuts
Mounting clips and screws (usually provided)
Wall plugs for concrete or brick walls
Safety access
Step ladder or sturdy stool
Modern LED mini tube light installations do not require special electrical tools. Basic household tools are enough.
Ceiling installation is common for wardrobes, corridors, and compact rooms. Follow these steps in order to install a small tube light LED.
Switch off the main MCB from the electrical board.
Do not rely only on the wall switch.
Use a voltage tester on the ceiling wires to confirm there is no current.
If an old fixture exists, unscrew it completely.
Disconnect the wires and remove the frame.
Only the main phase and neutral wires are required for the new LED tube.
Strip about 1 cm of insulation from both ceiling wires and the tube light wires.
Connect live to live
Connect neutral to neutral
Twist the copper ends tightly and insulate them properly. No bare wire should be visible.
Mark positions the mounting clips.
Drill holes, insert wall plugs, and screw the clips firmly.
Tuck the connected wires neatly into the ceiling box.
Align the batten and press it into the clips until it clicks.
Turn the MCB back on.
Switch on the light.
A correctly installed LED mini tube light should turn on instantly without flicker or sound.
Check alignment and grip.
Ensure wires are hidden and not pinched.
If installing multiple lights in a row, linkable models allow connection using a single power point.
Wall installation is common for mirrors, cabinets, and study areas.
Select a flat surface near an existing power source.
For cabinets, place the light closer to the front edge to avoid shadows.
Ensure there is enough side clearance to handle the batten.
Hold the mounting clips against the wall and mark the screw holes.
Drill holes, insert wall plugs, and secure the clips firmly.
Use a level if needed to keep the light straight.
Switch off the MCB again before touching wires.
Strip insulation from wall wires and light wires.
Join live to live and neutral to neutral.
Insulate joints properly and tuck them behind the fixture.
Press the batten into the clips until it locks in place.
Restore power and switch on the light.
If the light does not turn on, switch off the power and recheck connections.
A mini LED tube light price in Fybros would come around Rs 186, like the Fybros Casa 5W 1 ft Polycarbonate White LED Tube Light.
Installing a small tube light is no longer complicated. Integrated LED designs have removed unnecessary components and reduced installation effort. With basic tools and careful wiring, even beginners can complete the task safely.
Understanding placement, wiring, and light choice ensures the result is clean, functional, and comfortable. When done right, a small tube light quietly improves everyday spaces without drawing attention to itself.
1. What Are Small Tube Lights Called?
Small tube lights are commonly called LED battens or integrated T5 lights.
In homes, they are also referred to as cabinet lights or mini tube lights.
2. How to Choose a Tube Light?
Choose based on three factors: size, brightness, and light colour.
Smaller areas work best with 1-foot or 2-foot LED options using warm or neutral tones.
3. How to Check if a Tube Light Is Working?
Check the power source first using a tester.
If power is present and the light does not turn on, the internal driver may have failed and replacement is usually required.
4. Which Small Tube Light Is Good for the Eyes?
Lights that are flicker-free with a frosted diffuser are easier on the eyes.
A high CRI value and steady output reduce strain during daily use.
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