Product Overview
GE 97610/97613 F26TBX/827/A/ECO Biax 26W CFL - 2700K Warm White
GX24q-3 Base | 1,800 Lumens | 82 CRI | 12,000 Hour Life | 4-Pin Electronic Ballast | Dimmable
Product Overview
The GE F26TBX/827/A/ECO is a 26-watt compact fluorescent lamp featuring a GX24q-3 4-pin base. This Triple Biax (T/E) CFL delivers 1,800 initial lumens of warm 2700K light with 82 CRI color rendering. Designed for electronic ballasts with programmed start, this dimmable lamp is ideal for hospitality, residential, and commercial applications requiring warm, inviting illumination.
Technical Specifications
Product Identification ⚠️
| Possible Part Numbers | 97610 (from PDF link) or 97613 (pattern match) |
|---|---|
| Product Code | F26TBX/827/A/ECO |
| NAED Order Code | Verify with supplier |
| UPC | 0043168976104 (if 97610) |
Electrical & Photometric
| Wattage (Lamp) | 26 Watts |
|---|---|
| System Wattage | 29W (includes ~3W ballast loss) |
| Voltage | 120-277V (via compatible ballast) |
| Initial Lumens | 1,800 lm |
| Mean Lumens | 1,530 lm (85% maintenance) |
| Efficacy | 69 lm/W |
| Color Temperature | 2700K (Warm White) |
| Color Code | 827 |
| Color Rendering Index (CRI) | 82 Ra |
Physical Characteristics ⚠️
| Bulb Shape | T4 Triple Biax (T/E) - verify configuration |
|---|---|
| Tube Diameter | T4 (12.7mm / 0.5 inch) |
| Base Type | GX24q-3 (4-Pin) - verify "X" in base code |
| Maximum Overall Length (MOL) | 6.4" (162.6 mm) per listing - STANDARD IS 5.2" (132mm) |
| Operating Position | Universal (Any) |
Performance & Compliance
| Rated Average Life | 12,000 hours |
|---|---|
| Start Type | Programmed Start (4-pin) |
| Dimming Capability | Yes - with compatible dimming ballast |
| Mercury Content | Reduced - TCLP Compliant |
| EOL Protection | Yes - End-of-Life protection circuit |
- MOL 6.4" vs 5.2": Standard GE 26W Biax T/E is 5.2" (132mm). The 6.4" (162mm) suggests this may be a different model (possibly 32W or special configuration).
- Base Code G24q-3 vs GX24q-3: The "X" indicates triple-tube (T/E) configuration. Without "X" (G24q-3) may indicate double-tube (DBX) which is typically 2-pin.
- Double Biax vs Triple Biax: 26W 4-pin models are typically Triple Biax (6 tubes), not Double Biax (4 tubes).
- Part Number Uncertainty: PDF link suggests 97610, but pattern suggests 97613.
Recommendation: Download the specification sheet to verify exact dimensions before ordering.
Base Type Verification - Critical
Verify your socket type carefully. There are significant differences between 2-pin and 4-pin, and between G24 and GX24 bases:
| Base Code | Pin Count | Tube Config | Wattage | Ballast Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G24d-3 | 2 pins | Double Biax (4 tubes) | 26W | Magnetic/Electronic |
| GX24q-3 (Expected) | 4 pins | Triple Biax (6 tubes) | 26W | Electronic only |
| G24q-3 (Rare) | 4 pins | Double Biax (4 tubes) | 26W | Electronic only |
- Count the pins: 2-pin = G24d, 4-pin = GX24q (or G24q)
- Check for "notch" keying: GX24q has a wider, X-shaped keying
- Measure socket width: GX24q-3 is ~30mm wide
- Check existing lamp: Look for "GX24q-3" or "G24q-3" printed on base
Compatible Electronic Ballasts
GE Electronic Ballasts for 26W 4-Pin Lamps
| Model Number | Order Code | Type | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|
| GEC226-MVPS-BES | 71443 | Basic | 120-277V |
| GEC226-MVPS-3W | 71445 | 3-Wire | 120-277V |
| GEC226-MVPS-SE | 71444 | Single Ended | 120-277V |
| GEC242-MVPS-BES | 71439 | Multi-wattage (26W/32W/42W) | 120-277V |
Dimming Ballasts (for dimming feature)
- Sylvania: 51833 QTP2X26/CF/UNV DM
- OSRAM: QTP 2x26CF/UNV DM
- Philips Advance: ICF-2S26-H1-LD (some versions)
Recommended Applications for 2700K Warm White
Hospitality & Residential
- Hotel Rooms: Warm, inviting atmosphere for guest comfort
- Restaurant Dining: Flattering light for food and patrons
- Residential Living: Cozy, relaxing ambiance for homes
- Spa & Wellness: Warm tones promote relaxation
Retail & Commercial
- High-End Retail: Warm white enhances wood tones and fabrics
- Reception Areas: Welcoming, professional appearance
- Gallery Lighting: 82 CRI provides good color rendering for art
- Residential-Style Offices: Comfortable, home-like workspace
Specialty Applications
- Healthcare Waiting Areas: Calming environment for patients
- Senior Living: Warm light is easier on aging eyes
- Restaurant Bars: Intimate, cozy atmosphere
2700K Warm White vs Other Color Temperatures
Energy Savings: 26W CFL vs Alternatives
| Specification | GE 26W CFL (2700K) | 100W Incandescent | 26W LED Retrofit |
|---|---|---|---|
| System Wattage | 29W (lamp + ballast) | 100W | 26W |
| Lumen Output | 1,800 lm | 1,600 lm | 1,800 lm |
| Color Quality | 2700K warm, 82 CRI | 2700K warm, 100 CRI | 2700K warm, 80+ CRI |
| Annual Energy Cost* | $13.05 | $45.00 | $11.70 |
| Rated Life | 12,000 hours | 1,000 hours | 25,000-50,000 hours |
*Based on 3,000 hours/year at $0.15/kWh
Safety Information
♻️ Mercury & Disposal
TCLP compliant with reduced mercury. Recycle at end of life. Restricted States: CA, CO, HI, ME, MN, OR, RI, VT.
⚠️ Operating Safety
- Allow to cool before handling
- Use only with compatible electronic ballasts
- Dimming requires specific dimming ballast and dimmer
- EOL protection prevents catastrophic failure
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the MOL say 6.4" when other 26W Biax lamps are 5.2"?
This is a critical discrepancy. Standard GE 26W Biax T/E lamps have an MOL of 5.2" (132mm). The 6.4" (162mm) listed here suggests this may be:
- A different wattage (possibly 32W)
- A special configuration (longer tube design)
- A measurement including packaging
- A data entry error
Action Required: Download the official spec sheet to verify actual dimensions before ordering.
What is the difference between G24q-3 and GX24q-3?
The "X" in GX24q-3 indicates a triple-tube (T/E) configuration with 6 parallel tubes. G24q-3 (without X) typically indicates a double-tube (DBX) configuration with 4 tubes. For 26W 4-pin lamps, GX24q-3 is the standard. The "X" also indicates the physical keying on the base is X-shaped rather than straight. Verify your socket has the X-shaped notch before ordering.
Is this lamp dimmable with a standard wall dimmer?
No. This lamp requires three specific components for dimming:
- A dimming-compatible electronic ballast (marked "DM" or "Dim")
- A compatible dimmer switch (0-10V low-voltage or phase-control rated for CFL)
- Proper wiring between dimmer and ballast
Standard incandescent dimmers will cause flickering, reduced life, and potential damage. If you do not have a dimming ballast, the lamp will operate at full brightness only.
⚠️ Verification Required: This product listing contains specification discrepancies (MOL, part number, base type). Please download the official specification sheet and verify physical dimensions before ordering.
