GE

GE 97609 26W Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb 4100K

4.2 (57 reviews)
26W

Energy-efficient 26W compact fluorescent bulb delivering bright 4100K cool white light with a 10,000-hour rated lifespan.

$8.29*
In Stock on Amazon.com
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 08, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The GE 97609 Ecolux is a 26-watt compact fluorescent light bulb designed for energy-efficient illumination in residential, commercial, and institutional settings. Operating at a 4100K color temperature, it produces a cool white light that is well-suited for task-oriented environments such as offices, retail spaces, kitchens, and workshops. The bulb generates 1,710 lumens while consuming only 26 watts, offering a substantial energy advantage over incandescent bulbs of comparable brightness. With a color rendering index of 82, it provides reasonably accurate color representation for general-purpose use.

The T4-shaped bulb uses a 2-pin base and has an average rated lifespan of 10,000 hours, reducing maintenance and replacement costs over time. Buyers should note that this bulb is restricted from sale in California, Colorado, Hawaii, Minnesota, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Vermont due to state-level regulations. As compact fluorescent technology continues to be superseded by LED alternatives, this bulb remains a functional choice for those maintaining existing CFL-compatible fixtures or seeking a cost-effective replacement in non-restricted states.

Key Features

Initial Lumens: 1710 Mean Lumens: 1460

Base Type: G24d-3 (2 Pin)

Average Life Hours: 10,000

4100K Color Temperature

Specifications

Brand
GE
Model
97609
Wattage
26W
Bulb Shape
T4
Base Type
2-Pin
Color Temperature
4100K (Cool White)
Lumens
1,710
Color Rendering Index (CRI)
82
Average Lifespan
10,000 hours
Country of Origin
China

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Produces 1,710 lumens at only 26 watts for significant energy savings over incandescent equivalents
  • 10,000-hour average lifespan reduces the frequency and cost of bulb replacements
  • 4100K cool white color temperature provides clean, neutral illumination for work environments
  • CRI of 82 delivers reasonably accurate color rendering for general-purpose applications

👎 Cons

  • Banned in seven U.S. states, limiting availability for buyers in those regions
  • 2-pin base is not compatible with standard screw-in sockets, requiring a dedicated fixture
  • Contains mercury, as with all compact fluorescent bulbs, requiring proper disposal
  • Compact fluorescent technology is being phased out in favor of LED alternatives with better efficiency
  • T4 bulb shape may not fit all fixture housings designed for other CFL form factors

Frequently Asked Questions

The GE 97609 produces a 4100K cool white light, which is a clean, neutral white suitable for offices, kitchens, and commercial spaces where clear visibility is important.
This bulb uses a 2-pin base, so it requires a compatible pin-base fixture rather than a standard screw-in socket.
The GE 97609 has an average rated lifespan of 10,000 hours, which provides extended use before replacement is needed.
Yes, this bulb cannot be sold in California, Colorado, Hawaii, Minnesota, Oregon, Rhode Island, or Vermont due to state regulations regarding compact fluorescent lighting.
The bulb produces 1,710 lumens while consuming only 26 watts, delivering significantly more light per watt than a comparable incandescent bulb.