Product Overview
GE 97617 Biax T/E Ecolux 26W CFL Lamp - 4100K Cool White
GX24q-3 Base | 1,800 Lumens | 82 CRI | 12,000 Hour Life | TCLP Compliant | High-Efficiency Triple Tube
Product Overview
The GE 97617 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 4100K cool white light with 82 CRI color rendering, ideal for commercial, industrial, and institutional applications requiring enhanced visibility and alertness.
Technical Specifications - GE 97617
Product Identification
| Manufacturer Part Number | 97617 |
|---|---|
| Product Code | F26TBX/841/A/ECO |
| NAED Order Code | 97617 |
| Product Series | Biax T/E Ecolux Triple Tube |
| UPC | 0043168976176 |
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% lumen maintenance) |
| Efficacy | 69 lm/W (lamp only) |
| Color Temperature | 4100K (Cool White) |
| Color Code | 841 |
| 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 (MOL) | 5.2 inches (132 mm) |
| Maximum Width | 4.75 inches (120.6 mm) 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 (Ecolux technology) |
| Dimming Capability | Yes - with compatible dimming ballast |
| Mercury Content | Reduced - TCLP Compliant (US & Canada) |
| ANSI Code | 60901-IEC-3426-1 |
Compatible Electronic Ballasts - GX24q-3
GE Electronic Ballasts
| 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)
Recommended Applications for 4100K Cool White
Commercial & Industrial
- High Bay Manufacturing: 4100K cool white enhances alertness and visual acuity in industrial settings
- Warehouse Lighting: High efficacy (69 LPW) reduces operating costs in 24/7 facilities
- Big Box Retail: Cool white provides crisp, clean appearance for merchandise displays
- 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 and competitive spaces
- Schools & Universities: Cool white supports concentration in classrooms and libraries
- Medical Facilities: 4100K is standard for examination rooms and clinical areas
- Office Buildings: Task lighting where productivity and alertness are critical
Outdoor & Canopy
- Gas Station Canopies: Enclosed fixture rated for covered outdoor use
- Drive-Thru Canopies: Fast warm-up provides immediate illumination
- Security Lighting: Cool white enhances camera visibility and perimeter security
- Covered Walkways: Verify specific fixture damp location rating
4100K 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): Offices, commercial - neutral balanced, enhances concentration
- 4100K (Cool White): This lamp - Medical, industrial, security - clinical, high visibility, alertness
Also available: 97615 (3000K), 97616 (3500K). Contact us for 2700K availability.
Energy Savings: 26W CFL vs Alternatives
Based on 3,000 operating hours/year at $0.15/kWh electricity rate:
| Specification | GE 97617 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 |
GX24q-3 LED Retrofit Upgrade Options
While the GE 97617 CFL is perfect for existing installations, consider these LED retrofit lamps for longer life and energy savings:
| Feature | GE 97617 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 |
Key Features & Benefits
- Ecolux Technology: 50% faster warm-up than standard CFLs with flicker-free instant start
- Energy Efficiency: Up to 77% energy savings vs. incandescent lamps (80% vs. 100W incandescent)
- Long Life: 12,000-hour rated life - lasts up to 16x longer than standard incandescent bulbs
- TCLP Compliant: Low mercury content meets US and Canada environmental standards
- Universal Position: Same light output in any burning orientation
- Dimmable: Compatible with appropriate dimming electronic ballasts for flexible lighting control
- End-of-Life Protection: Safe failure mode prevents catastrophic rupture
- High CRI: 82 color rendering index for accurate color perception
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 due to mercury content laws.
⚠️ 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)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between GX24q-2, GX24q-3, and GX24q-4 bases?
The GX24q-3 base (used on this 26W lamp) has a unique pin configuration and mechanical keying that prevents insertion into wrong sockets. GX24q-2 is for 18W lamps, GX24q-3 is for 26W (this lamp), and GX24q-4 is for 32W/42W lamps. These are not interchangeable. Verify your socket marking (usually printed near the socket) or existing lamp base before ordering.
Is 4100K too cool for office lighting?
No, 4100K Cool White is ideal for task-oriented spaces. It provides better visual acuity and alertness than warmer temperatures, making it perfect for offices, schools, medical facilities, and industrial applications. However, for spaces where relaxation is desired (break rooms, hospitality), consider 3000K or 3500K instead.
Why does the specification sheet show different lumens than listed?
GE specifies 1,800 initial lumens for the 97617. Some sources may cite 1,750 lumens depending on test conditions. The "67 lumens per watt" figure found in some catalogs is incorrect - the actual efficacy is 69 lm/W (1800÷26). Always refer to the official GE specification sheet for accurate photometric data.
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 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 . Specifications subject to change without notice.
