Upgrade Your PL Fluorescent Bulbs to Energy‑Efficient LED Replacements

Why upgrade? Traditional compact fluorescent PL bulbs are being phased out as states like California enforce bans on mercury‑containing lamps. Businesses, churches, schools and large facilities are feeling pressure to switch to safer, more efficient technology. Satco’s line of LED PL lamps provides a direct replacement for 2‑pin and 4‑pin fluorescent CFLs with dramatic energy and maintenance savings.

What Are PL Bulbs?

"PL" refers to plug‑in compact fluorescent lamps used in recessed cans, sconces and downlights. They come in several formats:

  • 2‑pin (G23, G24d) bases – typically magnetic‑ballast CFLs used in older fixtures.
  • 4‑pin (G24q) bases – electronic‑ballast CFLs often found in newer commercial fixtures.
  • Single, double and triple tube designs – the number of glass tubes increases wattage and light output.

These bulbs are common in offices, hallways, classrooms and churches because they fit into compact fixtures. Unfortunately, fluorescents contain mercury, have limited lamp life and waste power as heat.

Why Switch to LED PL Replacements?

Satco’s LED PL lamps solve the problems of fluorescent technology. Benefits include:

  • Energy savings – LED replacements consume 50–70% less power than the CFLs they replace, lowering operating costs.
  • Long life and lower maintenance – most lamps are rated for 50 000 hours and come with a five‑year warranty, cutting relamping costs and reducing ladder trips.
  • Mercury‑free and safer – LEDs eliminate hazardous materials and run cooler, improving safety in schools and worship spaces.
  • Better light quality – instant‑on LED lamps provide higher CRI light with selectable color temperature options that allow you to tune the space from warm white to neutral or daylight.
  • Compliance – using LED PL lamps ensures your facility meets California’s fluorescent ban and energy codes.

Satco LED PL Lamp Line‑up

Satco offers plug‑in LED replacements for virtually every CFL format. Below are highlights of popular models.

2‑Pin LED PL Lamps

Model Wattage & Output Base / Orientation Key Features Application
S18403 4.5 W LED; approx. 450 lumens (replaces 5‑9 W CFL) G23 (2‑pin); universal orientation 360° beam; ballast bypass (Type B); 4000 K cool white Task lighting, exit signs, under‑cabinet fixtures
S8531 9 W LED; ~950 lumens (replaces 18‑26 W CFL) G24d (2‑pin); horizontal orientation 120° beam; ballast bypass; frosted finish; rated for enclosed fixtures Offices, hallways, commercial downlights
S21411 9 W LED; 1100 lumens (replaces 26 W CFL) G24d (2‑pin); universal orientation CCT selectable (2700‑5000 K); dual Type A/B design works with existing ballasts or direct wire Schools, churches, offices needing color tuning
S21413 14 W LED; 1750‑1820 lumens (replaces 26 W CFL) G24d (2‑pin); universal orientation CCT & lumen selectable 3000‑6500 K; 300° beam; ballast bypass (Type B) High‑ceilinged churches, auditoriums and large classrooms

4‑Pin LED PL Lamps

Model Wattage & Output Base / Orientation Key Features Application
S29850 9 W LED; 1050 lumens (replaces 26‑42 W CFL) G24q (4‑pin); horizontal orientation 120° beam; dimmable with compatible ballasts; operates on existing Type A ballasts Facilities where replacing ballasts is impractical
S21412 16 W LED; 1850 lumens (replaces 42 W CFL) G24q‑4 (4‑pin); universal orientation CCT selectable (2700‑5000 K); dual Type A/B: works on ballasts or direct wire Large open offices, manufacturing facilities and warehouses
S21401 (discontinued – see S21412) 16 W LED; 1750 lumens G24q (4‑pin); horizontal orientation Neutral 3500 K color; Type A ballast‑dependent Replacement option noted for completeness

Each Satco LED PL lamp features a long 50 000‑hour rated life and is backed by a five‑year warranty. Many models are rated for enclosed fixtures and damp locations, making them suitable for offices, corridors, lobbies and restrooms.

How to Choose the Right Replacement

  1. Identify your existing bulb’s base and wattage. Determine whether you have a 2‑pin (magnetic ballast) or 4‑pin (electronic ballast) CFL. Note whether your fixture uses single, double or triple tubes.
  2. Decide on ballast compatibility. Type A lamps operate on the existing ballast, Type B lamps bypass the ballast and require direct wiring, while Type A/B lamps can do either. Choosing ballast bypass eliminates failure points and maximizes efficiency.
  3. Choose color temperature and lumen output. Satco’s CCT‑selectable lamps let you set the color to warm (2700 K), neutral (3500 K) or daylight (5000 K) at installation. High‑lumen models like S21413 provide extra brightness for large rooms.
  4. Consider orientation. Horizontal lamps have the light source on the side, while universal lamps work in vertical or horizontal fixtures. Check product data before ordering.
  5. Work with a qualified electrician. Always follow manufacturer instructions. For ballast bypass, disconnect power, remove the ballast and wire directly to line voltage.

Benefits for Facility Managers and Building Owners

  • Reduce maintenance workload. Long‑life LED PL lamps slash the frequency of bulb changes, freeing maintenance staff for higher‑value tasks.
  • Cut operating costs. Upgrading reduces wattage by up to 70%, lowering energy bills for offices, schools and churches.
  • Enhance occupant comfort. Higher CRI and flicker‑free LEDs improve visibility and minimize eye strain for students, congregations and office staff.
  • Compliance and safety. Mercury‑free lamps help facilities meet environmental regulations and avoid fines.

Download Spec Sheets

For detailed dimensions, wiring diagrams and ballast compatibility lists, download the product spec sheets directly from Satco:

Retrofitting Tips

When retrofitting, turn off power and verify wiring. For Type B ballast‑bypass lamps, remove the existing ballast and wire the lamp holder directly to line voltage. For Type A or A/B lamps, verify that the existing ballast is compatible and follow Satco’s wiring diagrams. Check local codes and hire a licensed electrician if required.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Upgrading from fluorescent PL lamps to Satco LED PL replacements is a straightforward way to improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance and comply with emerging legislation. With options for 2‑pin and 4‑pin bases, CCT and lumen selection, and ballast bypass or dual‑mode operation, Satco’s portfolio offers a solution for every fixture in your facility.

Ready to modernize your lighting? Contact us today to schedule an on‑site audit or to discuss your next retrofit project.