Product Overview
GE 97609 F26DBX/841/ECO/2P Double Biax 26W CFL - 4100K Cool White
G24d-3 Base | 1,710 Lumens | 82 CRI | 12,000 Hour Life | TCLP Compliant | 2-Pin Magnetic/Electronic
Product Overview
The GE 97609 F26DBX/841/ECO/2P is an energy-efficient 26-watt compact fluorescent lamp featuring a G24d-3 2-pin base. This Double Biax (quad tube) CFL delivers 1,710 initial lumens of crisp 4100K cool white light with 82 CRI color rendering, designed for use with magnetic or electronic ballasts in commercial, retail, and hospitality applications.
Technical Specifications - GE 97609
Product Identification
| Manufacturer Part Number | 97609 |
|---|---|
| Product Code | F26DBX/841/ECO/2P |
| NAED Order Code | 97609 |
| UPC | 0043168976091 |
| Country of Origin | Hungary |
Electrical & Photometric
| Wattage | 26 Watts |
|---|---|
| Initial Lumens | 1,710 lm |
| Mean Lumens | 1,460 lm (85% maintenance) |
| Efficacy | 66 lm/W |
| Color Temperature | 4100K (Cool White) |
| Color Code | 841 |
| Color Rendering Index (CRI) | 82 Ra |
Physical Characteristics
| Bulb Shape | T4 Double Biax (Quad Tube) |
|---|---|
| Tube Configuration | 4 parallel folded tubes (quad configuration) |
| Tube Diameter | T4 (12.7mm / 0.5 inch) |
| Base Type | G24d-3 (2-Pin, Magnetic/Electronic) |
| Maximum Overall Length (MOL) | 6.67 inches (169.4 mm) |
| Maximum Width | Approximately 3.9 inches (99 mm) |
| Operating Position | Universal (Any) |
Performance & Compliance
| Rated Average Life | 12,000 hours (Ecolux version) |
|---|---|
| Start Type | Preheat (2-pin with integrated starter) |
| Minimum Starting Temp | -15°C (5°F) |
| Dimming Capability | Non-Dimmable |
| Mercury Content | Reduced - TCLP Compliant |
| EOL Protection | Yes - End-of-Life protection circuit |
G24d Base Identification Guide
This lamp uses a 2-pin G24d-3 base for 26W magnetic or electronic ballasts. Do not confuse with 4-pin G24q bases or other G24d sizes:
| Base Type | Wattage | Pin Count | Ballast Type | Compatible GE Lamps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G24d-2 | 18W | 2 pins | Magnetic or Electronic | 97577-97580 (18W 2-pin) |
| G24d-3 (This Lamp) | 26W | 2 pins | Magnetic or Electronic | 97606-97609 (26W 2-pin) |
| G24q-3 | 26W | 4 pins | Electronic only | 97613-97616 (26W 4-pin) |
Compatible Ballasts - G24d-3 Base
GE Ballasts for G24d-3 Lamps
| Application | Ballast Type | Voltage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single 26W Lamp | GE Magnetic Preheat | 120V | Standard for 2-pin CFLs |
| Single 26W Lamp | GE Electronic CFL Ballast | 120-277V | Energy-efficient option |
| Dual 26W Lamps | GE Dual-Lamp Magnetic | 120V | For fixtures with 2 lamps |
Cross-Reference to Other Brands
This GE lamp replaces or is equivalent to:
- Philips: PL-C 26W/841/2P/ALTO, PL-C 26W/841/2P/USA
- Sylvania: CF26DD/841/ECO, CFQ26W/G24d/841
- Osram: CF26DD/841
- Generic: CFQ26W/G24d/841, 26W G24d-3 4100K
Recommended Applications for 4100K Cool White
Commercial Facilities
- Office Lighting: 4100K cool white enhances alertness and productivity in workspaces
- Retail Display: Crisp light makes merchandise appear vibrant and appealing
- Reception Areas: Professional appearance with clean, neutral illumination
- Conference Rooms: Good color rendering for presentations and meetings
Hospitality & Food Service
- Restaurant Kitchens: Cool white improves visibility for food preparation safety
- Hotel Lobbies: Bright, welcoming illumination for guest areas
- Bar Areas: 4100K provides clean, modern aesthetic
- Back-of-House: High efficacy reduces operating costs in 24/7 operations
Industrial & Warehouse
- Maintenance Facilities: 1,710 lumens provide adequate task lighting
- Storage Areas: 12,000-hour life reduces relamping frequency
- Workshops: 82 CRI allows for accurate color identification
- Loading Docks: Cool white enhances safety and visibility
4100K vs Other Color Temperatures
Energy Savings: 26W CFL vs Alternatives
Based on 3,000 operating hours/year at $0.15/kWh electricity rate:
| Specification | GE 97609 26W CFL | 100W Incandescent | 26W LED Retrofit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wattage | 26W | 100W | 26W |
| Lumen Output | 1,710 lm | 1,600 lm | 1,700-1,800 lm |
| Annual Energy Cost | $11.70 | $45.00 | $11.70 |
| Rated Life | 12,000 hours | 1,000 hours | 25,000-50,000 hours |
| Efficacy | 66 lm/W | 16 lm/W | 80-100 lm/W |
| 10-Year Replacements | 2.5 lamps | 30 bulbs | 0.6 lamp |
Key Features & Benefits
- Energy Efficiency: 74% energy savings vs. 100W incandescent (66 lm/W efficacy)
- Extended Life: 12,000-hour rated life - 12x longer than standard incandescent bulbs
- TCLP Compliant: Low mercury content meets US and Canada environmental standards
- End-of-Life Protection: Built-in circuit prevents catastrophic failure at end of life
- Instant Start: 2-pin base works with magnetic or electronic ballasts for immediate illumination
- Universal Position: Operates reliably in any burning orientation
- High Color Rendering: 82 CRI for accurate color perception in retail and task applications
- Cool White Output: 4100K color temperature enhances visibility and alertness
- Quality Manufacturing: Made in Hungary to GE specifications
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.
State Restrictions: Cannot ship to CA, CO, HI, ME, MN, OR, RI, VT. Washington State: Environmental handling charge of $0.95 per lamp applies.
⚠️ Operating Safety
- Allow lamp to cool before handling (operates at elevated temperatures)
- Use only in fixtures rated for CFL use with proper ventilation
- Not for use with dimmers, photocells, or timers not rated for CFL
- 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)
- RoHS Compliant
- CE Listed
- UL Listed for dry/damp locations
- Minimum starting temperature: -15°C (5°F)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 2-pin (G24d) and 4-pin (G24q) CFLs?
The G24d-3 base (this lamp) has 2 pins and works with magnetic or electronic ballasts using preheat or rapid start technology. G24q-3 has 4 pins and requires electronic ballasts with programmed start. The two types are not interchangeable - 2-pin lamps have built-in starters, while 4-pin lamps rely on the ballast for starting. Verify your socket by counting the holes/pins before ordering.
Why is this 2-pin lamp longer (6.67") than the 4-pin version?
2-pin CFLs like this one contain an integrated glow starter in the base housing, which adds length to the overall lamp. 4-pin lamps rely on the external ballast for starting and do not need this internal component, making them slightly shorter (typically 5.2" for 26W). Always check your fixture clearance before ordering.
Why does this lamp have 1,710 lumens while the 4-pin version has 1,800?
The slight difference in lumen output (1,710 vs 1,800) is due to ballast technology. 4-pin electronic ballasts with programmed start are slightly more efficient than the magnetic or rapid-start ballasts used with 2-pin lamps. For most applications, the 90-lumen difference is not noticeable. If maximum output is critical, consider the 4-pin version (97616).
Can I use this lamp with an electronic ballast?
Yes, but only with electronic ballasts specifically rated for 2-pin CFLs. Many modern electronic ballasts are designed for 4-pin lamps only. Check your ballast label for compatibility with "26W G24d" or "2-pin CFL" lamps. If your ballast is 4-pin only, you must either replace the ballast or purchase the 4-pin version (97616) of this lamp.
Availability Notice: 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 in Hungary. Specifications subject to change without notice.
