Product Overview
GE 97608 Ecolux Double Biax 26W CFL - G24d-3 Base - 3500K Neutral White
The GE 97608 Ecolux Double Biax 26W is an energy-efficient compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) featuring a G24d-3 2-pin base and quad tube T4 design. Delivering 1,710 initial lumens of 3500K neutral white light with 82 CRI, this TCLP-compliant lamp is ideal for commercial offices, retail facilities, hospitality lighting, and warehouse applications. With a 10,000-hour rated life, it provides significant energy savings over traditional incandescent lighting.
Technical Specifications - GE 97608 Double Biax 26W
Electrical
| Manufacturer Part Number | 97608 |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 26 Watts |
| Base Type | G24d-3 (2-Pin, Non-Dimmable) |
| Ballast Type | Magnetic with Internal Starter |
| Input Voltage | 120-277V (Ballast dependent) |
Photometric Performance
| Color Temperature | 3500K (Neutral White) |
|---|---|
| Color Rendering Index (CRI) | 82 (Good) |
| Initial Lumens | 1,710 lm |
| Mean Lumens (Design) | 1,460 lm (85% lumen maintenance) |
| Efficacy | 66 Lumens per Watt |
Physical & Compliance
| Bulb Type | T4 Quad Tube (Double Biax) |
|---|---|
| Maximum Overall Length (MOL) | 6.67 inches (169mm) |
| Rated Life | 10,000 Hours |
| Environmental | TCLP Compliant (Reduced Mercury) |
| Origin | Made in Hungary |
G24d-3 (2-Pin) vs G24q-3 (4-Pin): Critical Difference
⚠️ Do Not Confuse Base Types: This lamp has a G24d-3 (2-pin) base, NOT G24q-3 (4-pin). These are physically and electrically incompatible.
| Feature | This Lamp: G24d-3 (2-Pin) | NOT Compatible: G24q-3 (4-Pin) |
|---|---|---|
| Pin Configuration | 2 pins | 4 pins (2 pairs) |
| Starter Location | Internal (inside lamp) | External (in ballast) |
| Ballast Type | Magnetic / Pre-heat | Electronic Rapid-Start |
| Socket Keying | Single notch | Dual notch (different position) |
| Dimming | Non-dimmable | Dimmable (with compatible ballast) |
3500K Neutral White: The Professional Choice
This lamp provides 3500K neutral white light—the "sweet spot" for commercial environments:
3000K Soft White
Warm, yellowish tone
Best for: Homes, restaurants, hospitality
3500K Neutral White ← This Lamp
Balanced, crisp white
Best for: Offices, retail, task lighting
4100K Cool White
Bluish-white, clinical
Best for: Hospitals, industrial only
Why 3500K for Commercial? Unlike 3000K (which can appear too warm/yellow for work environments) or 4100K (which appears harsh and cold), 3500K provides neutral illumination that enhances readability and reduces eye strain without creating a sterile atmosphere. It's the ANSI standard for office lighting.
Energy Comparison: 26W CFL vs Traditional Lighting
| Specification | GE 26W CFL (This Lamp) | 100W Incandescent | 75W Halogen PAR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Consumption | 26W | 100W | 75W |
| Light Output | 1,710 lm | 1,600 lm | 1,100 lm |
| Annual Energy Cost* | $11.70 | $45.00 | $33.75 |
| Lifespan | 10,000 hrs | 1,000 hrs | 2,500 hrs |
| 5-Year Replacement Cost | 1.5 lamps | 15 bulbs | 6 bulbs |
*Based on 3,000 hours/year operation at $0.15/kWh. Annual Savings: $33.30 vs incandescent, $22.05 vs halogen.
Primary Applications for 3500K Neutral White
? Commercial Office
- General office lighting and downlights
- Conference rooms and meeting spaces
- Task lighting at workstations
- Corridor and common area fixtures
- Reception and lobby areas
? Retail & Facilities
- Retail display lighting (neutral color shows true merchandise)
- Warehouse aisle lighting
- Storage facility fixtures
- Back-of-house operations
- Building maintenance areas
? Hospitality
- Hotel business centers and meeting rooms
- Restaurant kitchen and prep areas
- Conference facilities
- Office areas within hospitality settings
- Public facility restrooms
Compatible Replacements - G24d-3 (2-Pin) Base Only
This GE 97608 (26W, G24d-3, 3500K) cross-references to:
| Brand | Part Number | Color Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Philips | PL-C 26W/835/2P (G24d-3) | 3500K |
| Osram Sylvania | CF26DD/835/ECO (G24d-3) | 3500K |
| Panasonic | FML26EX-N (G24d-3) | 3500K (Natural) |
| GE (3000K version) | F26DBX/830/ECO (G24d-3) | 3000K (warmer) |
Warning: G24d-3 and G24q-3 are not interchangeable. Verify 2-pin requirement before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 3000K and 3500K CFLs?
3000K (Soft White) has a warm, yellowish tone similar to incandescent bulbs, ideal for homes and hospitality. 3500K (Neutral White) (this lamp) is crisper and more neutral—perfect for offices and retail where task visibility is important but you don't want the harsh clinical feel of 4100K. 3500K is often called "office white" because it provides good visual acuity without eye strain.
Why won't my 2-pin CFL work in my 4-pin socket?
G24d-3 (2-pin) and G24q-3 (4-pin) have completely different electrical systems. The 2-pin version has an internal starter (glow switch) and works with magnetic ballasts. The 4-pin version requires an electronic ballast with external starting. Physically, the socket keying is different to prevent insertion, but if forced, damage will occur. Always match the base type exactly—count the holes in your socket (2 vs 4) to determine which you need.
What does TCLP compliant mean for CFLs?
TCLP (Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure) is an EPA environmental test. This GE Ecolux lamp is TCLP compliant, meaning it contains reduced mercury levels compared to traditional CFLs. While still requiring proper recycling (never trash), TCLP-compliant lamps pose less environmental risk if accidentally landfilled. All CFLs contain trace mercury—recycle through Home Depot, Lowe's, or municipal programs.
Can I use this CFL outdoors?
Only in enclosed fixtures rated for outdoor use. This CFL operates best between -20°C to +50°C (-4°F to 122°F). Cold temperatures below freezing can reduce light output and delay starting. For outdoor applications, ensure the fixture is weatherproof and provides protection from rain/snow. The 3500K color temperature is excellent for security lighting as it provides good color recognition without the harshness of 5000K+ daylight.
Why does my CFL buzz or flicker?
Buzzing or flickering in G24d-3 (2-pin) CFLs usually indicates: (1) End of life - Tubes darken at ends; replace lamp. (2) Failed internal starter - The glow starter inside 2-pin lamps can wear out. (3) Incompatible ballast - Ensure you're using a magnetic ballast designed for 26W G24d-3 lamps. (4) Voltage issues - Verify stable 120V supply (if using 120V ballast). Unlike 4-pin electronic systems, 2-pin lamps rely on the internal starter—when it fails, the lamp must be replaced.
