2-Pin and 4-Pin LED PL Lamp Replacements | PLS, PLC, PLT and PLL | Harolux

Start with the base type printed on your existing CFL. Short compact fixtures with G23/GX23 (2-pin) or 2G7/2GX7 (4-pin) bases → PLS. Cluster-style omni lamps with GX23/G24d/G24q/GX32 → PLC. GX24d bases needing higher output → PLT. Long 2G11 fixtures → PLL.

2-pin lamps (G23, GX23) typically use Type A+B hybrid wiring — they work with or without the existing magnetic ballast. 4-pin lamps (2G7, 2GX7, G24q, GX24q, G24d, GX24d, 2G11) are primarily Type B ballast bypass, requiring the ballast to be removed. The pin layout is physically different; a 2-pin bulb does not fit a 4-pin socket and vice versa.

No. The pin spacing and configuration are completely different. A G23 (2-pin) lamp cannot be inserted into a 2G7 (4-pin) socket. You must match the base type exactly. If upgrading from CFL to LED, check the base code printed on your old lamp and use the lookup table above to find the matching Harolux family.

Type A+B (hybrid) is better when you want to keep the existing ballast and minimize installation labor. Type B (ballast bypass) is better for long-term reliability since removing the ballast eliminates a potential failure point. If your ballast is old or you’re already rewiring, go Type B. If the ballast is in good condition and labor cost matters, Type A+B is the practical choice.

Both are 4-pin bases but with different pin configurations. G24d has two parallel rows of pins, while G24q has a square arrangement. They are not interchangeable. Check your existing CFL base marking to confirm which one you need. Harolux PLC series covers both G24d and G24q with different model numbers.

It depends on the wiring type. For Type B models (PLS 4-pin, PLT higher output, PLL): yes, the ballast must be bypassed. For Type A+B models (PLS 2-pin, PLC, PLT compact): no, they work with the existing magnetic ballast. If you choose Type A+B and your ballast later fails, you can still rewire to Type B mode later.

PL originally stood for “Philips Lamp” (Philips’ brand name for compact fluorescent lamps). Today, “PL lamp” is the industry term for compact fluorescent lamps with plug-in bases (not screw-in). LED PL lamps are direct replacements that fit the same sockets but use LED technology for 50-70% energy savings and longer lifespan.

For offices and commercial spaces, 4000K (neutral white) is the most common choice — it balances visual comfort with task visibility. 5000K (cool white) is used for areas needing high visual acuity. 3000K (warm white) suits hospitality and residential applications. Harolux 4CCT/5CCT models let you select the CCT during installation, simplifying inventory for multi-zone projects.

Match the lumen output of your existing CFL, not the wattage. A typical 13W CFL PL lamp produces about 800-900 lm. Harolux LED PL replacements provide similar or higher lumens at much lower wattage: PLS 3.5W delivers 360 lm, PLC 5.5W delivers 720-800 lm, PLT 9W delivers up to 1200 lm, and PLL 22W delivers up to 3200 lm.

For Type B (ballast bypass): 1) Turn off power at the breaker, 2) Remove the old CFL and the ballast cover, 3) Cut the ballast wires and connect line/neutral directly to the socket leads per the wiring diagram, 4) Insert the LED PL lamp, 5) Restore power and test. For Type A+B: simply remove the old CFL and insert the LED PL lamp — no rewiring needed if your ballast is compatible. Always consult a qualified electrician for installation.