GE

GE F42TBX/835/A/ECO 42W Pin Base Triple Tube - Compact Fluorescent Lamp

4.4 (313 reviews)
42W

42-watt triple tube compact fluorescent lamp delivering 3200 lumens of warm white light at 3500K.

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Overview

The GE F42TBX/835/A/ECO is a 42-watt compact fluorescent lamp in a triple tube T4 form factor, designed for use in commercial and institutional lighting fixtures equipped with GX24-q4 four-pin bases. With an initial output of 3200 lumens at a 3500K color temperature, it delivers a neutral warm white light that works well in offices, retail spaces, healthcare facilities, and other environments where consistent, glare-free illumination is needed throughout the day.

The ECO designation means this lamp meets standards for reduced mercury content, which is a meaningful consideration given that CFL disposal requires proper recycling. As a plug-in CFL, this lamp is ballast-dependent — it will only operate with a compatible electronic or magnetic ballast matched to the GX24-q4 configuration. For facilities still running CFL-based fixtures, this GE lamp is a reliable direct replacement that maintains expected light levels and color consistency.

Key Features

T4 ANSI Bulb Shape

42 Watt, 3200 Lumens (Initial)

3500K Color Temperature

17000 Hour rated life

Specifications

Brand
GE
Model
F42TBX/835/A/ECO
Bulb Shape
T4 Triple Tube
Wattage
42W
Initial Lumens
3200
Color Temperature
3500K
Base Type
GX24-q4 (4-Pin)

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • 3200 lumens from only 42 watts provides strong energy efficiency
  • 3500K color temperature suits a wide range of commercial and office applications
  • T4 triple tube design is compact relative to its high lumen output
  • ECO designation means reduced mercury content compared to standard CFLs

👎 Cons

  • Requires a compatible GX24-q4 four-pin ballast — will not work in standard screw-in sockets
  • CFL technology has slower warm-up time compared to LED alternatives
  • Contains mercury, requiring proper disposal at recycling facilities
  • Being a CFL, it has a shorter rated lifespan than equivalent modern LED replacements

Frequently Asked Questions

It uses a GX24-q4 four-pin base, which is a specific pin configuration — confirm your fixture accepts this base type before purchasing.
It produces 3500K light, which is a neutral warm white tone commonly used in commercial and office environments.
It produces 3200 initial lumens, offering significantly more light output per watt than an equivalent incandescent lamp.
The ECO designation indicates this lamp meets reduced mercury content standards, making it a more environmentally conscious choice within the CFL category.
Dimmability depends on the ballast in your fixture. This lamp requires a compatible electronic ballast, and dimming capability is determined by the ballast, not the lamp itself.