Product Overview
GE 97616 Biax T/E Ecolux 26W CFL Lamp - 3500K Natural White
GX24q-3 Base | 1,800 Lumens | 82 CRI | 12,000 Hour Life | TCLP Compliant
Product Overview
The GE 97616 Biax T/E Ecolux is a high-efficiency 26-watt compact fluorescent lamp featuring a GX24q-3 4-pin base. This triple-tube CFL delivers 1,800 initial lumens of crisp 3500K natural white light with 82 CRI color rendering, making it ideal for commercial, industrial, and retail applications requiring neutral color temperature and high efficacy.
Technical Specifications - GE 97616
Product Identification
| Manufacturer Part Number | 97616 |
|---|---|
| Product Code | F26TBX/835/A/ECO |
| NAED Order Code | 97616 |
| Product Series | Biax T/E Ecolux Triple Tube |
Electrical & Photometric
| Wattage (Lamp) | 26 Watts |
|---|---|
| System Wattage | 29W (includes ~3W ballast loss) |
| Initial Lumens | 1,800 lm |
| Mean Lumens | 1,530 lm (85% maintenance) |
| Efficacy | 69 lm/W (lamp only) |
| Color Temperature | 3500K (Natural White / Neutral) |
| Color Code | 835 |
| Color Rendering Index (CRI) | 82 Ra |
Physical Characteristics
| Base Type | GX24q-3 (4-Pin, Programmed Start) |
|---|---|
| Tube Configuration | T4 Triple Twin Tube (4 parallel tubes) |
| Tube Diameter | T4 (12.7mm / 0.5 inch) |
| Maximum Overall Length | 5.2 inches (132mm) |
| Maximum Width | 4.75 inches (120.6mm) across tube cluster |
| Operating Position | Universal (Any) |
Performance & Compliance
| Rated Average Life | 12,000 hours (3-hour cycles) |
|---|---|
| Start Type | Programmed Start (4-pin) |
| Warm-up Time | 50% faster than standard CFL |
| Dimming Capability | Yes - with compatible dimming ballast |
| Mercury Content | Reduced - TCLP Compliant (US & Canada) |
| ANSI Code | 60901-IEC-3426-1 |
Required Ballasts - GX24q-3 Configuration
Compatible GE Electronic Ballasts
| GE Model Number | Order Code | Type | Voltage | Lamp Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEC226-MVPS-BES | 71443 | Basic | 120-277V | 1x26W or 2x26W |
| GEC226-MVPS-3W | 71445 | 3-Wire | 120-277V | 1x26W or 2x26W |
| GEC226-MVPS-SE | 71444 | Single Ended | 120-277V | 1x26W or 2x26W |
| GEC242-MVPS-BES | 71439 | Basic (26W/42W) | 120-277V | 1x26W, 2x26W, 1x42W, or 2x42W |
| GEC242-MVPS-3W | 71441 | 3-Wire (26W/42W) | 120-277V | 1x26W, 2x26W, 1x42W, or 2x42W |
| GEC242-MVPS-SE | 71440 | Single Ended (26W/42W) | 120-277V | 1x26W, 2x26W, 1x42W, or 2x42W |
Third-Party Compatible Ballasts
- Philips Advance: ICF-2S26-H1-LD (IntelliVolt, 120-277V)
- Universal Lighting: Triad C226UNVME-000K (Multi-volt)
- Sylvania: 51833 QTP2X26/CF/UNV DM (Dimming capable)
- OSRAM: QTP 2x26CF/UNV DM (Dimming)
Energy Savings: 26W CFL vs Alternatives
Based on 3,000 operating hours/year at $0.15/kWh electricity rate:
| Specification | GE 97616 26W CFL | 100W Incandescent | 26W LED Retrofit |
|---|---|---|---|
| System Wattage | 29W (lamp + ballast) | 100W | 26W (direct wire) |
| Lumen Output | 1,800 lm | 1,600 lm | 1,800-2,000 lm |
| Annual Energy Cost | $13.05 | $45.00 | $11.70 |
| Rated Life | 12,000 hours | 1,000 hours | 50,000 hours |
| CRI | 82 | 100 | 80+ |
| 10-Year Lamp Replacements | 2.5 lamps | 30 bulbs | 0.6 lamp |
| Best Application | Existing CFL fixtures | Banned/Phase-out | New installations |
Recommended Applications for 3500K Natural White
Commercial & Industrial
- High Bay Manufacturing: 3500K natural white reduces eye strain in industrial settings while maintaining alertness
- Warehouse Lighting: High efficacy (69 LPW) reduces operating costs in 24/7 facilities
- Big Box Retail: Neutral white enhances merchandise appearance without yellow cast of warm white
- Parking Garages: 12,000-hour life reduces relamping frequency in hard-to-reach fixtures
Institutional & Public
- Arena & Sports Facilities: High ambient light output for recreational spaces
- Schools & Universities: Dimmable capability supports classroom AV presentations
- Medical Office Reception: Natural 3500K provides clean, professional appearance
- Government Buildings: TCLP compliance meets environmental procurement regulations
Outdoor & Canopy
- Gas Station Canopies: Enclosed fixture rated for covered outdoor use
- Drive-Thru Canopies: Fast warm-up provides immediate illumination
- Covered Walkways: Verify specific fixture damp location rating
- Security Lighting: Instant flicker-free start provides immediate full brightness
3500K vs Other Color Temperatures
- 2700K (Warm White): Residential, hospitality - cozy, relaxing atmosphere
- 3000K (Soft White): Retail, restaurants - flattering to skin tones and wood tones
- 3500K (Natural White): This lamp - Offices, commercial, task lighting - neutral balanced, enhances concentration
- 4100K (Cool White): Hospitals, precision assembly - clinical, high visibility
Also available: 97615 (3000K), 97617 (4100K). Contact us for 2700K availability.
GX24q-3 LED Retrofit Upgrade Options
While the GE 97616 CFL is perfect for existing installations, consider these LED retrofit lamps for longer life and energy savings in compatible fixtures:
| Feature | GE 97616 CFL (Current) | LED GX24q-3 Retrofit |
|---|---|---|
| Wattage | 26W (+3W ballast loss) | 12W (ballast bypass) or 15W (plug-and-play) |
| Lumens | 1,800 | 1,600-1,800 |
| Efficacy | 69 lm/W | 120-150 lm/W |
| Rated Life | 12,000 hrs | 50,000 hrs |
| Mercury Content | Reduced (TCLP) | Mercury-free |
| Installation | Plug-and-play | Plug-and-play OR Ballast bypass (rewire required) |
| Initial Cost | Lower | Higher (pays back in 2-3 years) |
Safety Information & Environmental Compliance
♻️ Mercury & Disposal
This lamp contains reduced mercury (TCLP compliant) but requires proper recycling at end of life. Do not dispose of in regular trash. Use EPA-approved CFL recycling centers or retailer take-back programs.
Restricted States: Cannot ship to CA, CO, HI, ME, MN, OR, RI, VT due to state mercury restrictions.
⚠️ Operating Safety
- Allow lamp to cool before handling (operates at 100°C+/212°F+)
- Use only in fixtures rated for CFL use with proper ventilation
- Do not use with photocells or timers not rated for CFL loads
- End-of-life protection prevents rupture; lamp will darken gradually
- Broken lamps: Ventilate area, avoid direct contact with mercury
✓ Certifications
- TCLP Compliant (EPA 40 CFR Part 273)
- ANSI C78.901 / IEC 60901 compliant base
- RoHS Compliant (Restriction of Hazardous Substances)
- CE Listed
- UL Listed for dry/damp locations (verify fixture rating)
Technical Documentation
- ? GE 97616 Specification Sheet (PDF) - Photometric curves, dimensions, and full technical data
- ⚡ Ballast Compatibility Guide - Wiring diagrams and ballast selection criteria
- ♻️ CFL Recycling Instructions - Proper disposal procedures and recycling locations
- ? GX24q Base Identification Guide - Differentiating GX24q-2, q-3, and q-4 bases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between GX24q-2 and GX24q-3 bases?
The GX24q-3 base (used on this 26W lamp) has a different pin configuration and keying than GX24q-2 (18W) or GX24q-4 (32W/42W). These are not interchangeable - the mechanical keying prevents insertion into wrong sockets. GX24q-3 uses 4 pins positioned for 26W programmed start ballasts only. Verify your socket marking or existing lamp base before ordering.
Can I replace a 26W CFL with an LED in the same fixture?
Yes, with two options: Option 1: Plug-and-play LED designed for GX24q-3 bases (works with existing ballast, limited efficacy). Option 2: Ballast-bypass LED (requires rewiring socket to 120-277V direct, offers 12W consumption vs 29W system). Option 2 provides better efficiency but requires qualified electrical work. Ensure LED lumen output (1,600-1,800 lm) matches your application needs.
Is 3500K too cool for office lighting?
No, 3500K Natural White is the industry standard for commercial office lighting. It provides better visual acuity and alertness than warm white (2700K-3000K) without the clinical harshness of 4100K cool white. 3500K is ideal for task lighting, corporate offices, retail, and anywhere color accuracy and productivity are important.
Why does my CFL take time to reach full brightness?
This GE Ecolux lamp features 50% faster warm-up than standard CFLs, but all mercury amalgam CFLs require 1-2 minutes to reach full output. Cold temperatures (below 50°F/10°C) can extend warm-up time. If the lamp is very old (near 12,000 hours), it may take longer to warm up or appear dimmer - this indicates replacement is needed.
Can I use this CFL with a standard wall dimmer?
Only with proper components: You need a dimmable ballast (such as Sylvania QTP2X26/CF/UNV DM) AND a compatible dimmer switch (0-10V low-voltage or specific CFL phase-control). Standard incandescent dimmers will cause flickering, reduced lamp life, and potential ballast failure. If unsure about your ballast type, contact us with the ballast model number for verification.
Availability Note: CFL products are being phased out due to federal energy efficiency regulations. Stock up for existing fixtures or consider LED retrofit options for new installations.
Manufactured by GE Current, a Daintree Company . Specifications subject to change without notice.
