1. Product Overview
The OttLite 13-Watt Replacement Tube with Electronic Ballast (Type E) is designed to provide natural daylight illumination for your compatible OttLite lamp. This bulb is specifically for lamps purchased after 2008 that utilize an electronic ballast. It delivers low-heat, low-glare light, helping to reduce eyestrain and show colors with incredible accuracy.
Important Note: This bulb is not compatible with lamps purchased before 2008, which require a magnetic ballast (Type A) tube.
Figure 1: OttLite 13W Electronic Ballast Replacement Tube (Type E) and its packaging.
2. Identifying the Correct Bulb
It is crucial to confirm that you are selecting the correct replacement tube for your OttLite lamp. There are two main types of 13W replacement tubes: Electronic (Type E) and Magnetic (Type A).
2.1. Lamp Purchase Date and Ballast Type
- If your lamp was purchased after 2008, you likely need the Electronic Ballast (Type E) tube. Look for an "E" on your current tube or its packaging.
- If your lamp was purchased before 2008, you need the Magnetic Ballast (Type A) tube.
Figure 2: This bulb is designed for OttLite lamps purchased after 2008.
2.2. Bulb Length and Model Numbers
The Electronic Ballast (Type E) replacement tube is approximately 7 inches long. Verify this length against your existing bulb or lamp shade.
Additionally, check the base of your current bulb for one of the following model numbers, which indicate compatibility with the Type E electronic ballast:
- T1333E
- Z17113
- 7T13CH-CE
- B413SP
- 7T13CH-SE
- T59J33
- ZRS113-CA
- T13WLE
- PL13-E
Figure 3: Visual guide for identifying the correct bulb type based on bulb length and compatible model numbers.
Figure 4: Detailed explanation for distinguishing between Electronic (Type E) and Magnetic (Type A) 13W replacement tubes, including a selection guide.
3. Installation Instructions
Follow these steps to safely replace your OttLite 13W tube:
- Power Off: Ensure your OttLite lamp is unplugged from the power outlet before attempting any bulb replacement.
- Remove Old Bulb: Carefully grasp the base of the old bulb and gently pull it straight out from the lamp socket. Avoid twisting or bending the bulb, as this may cause breakage.
- Insert New Bulb: Align the pins on the base of the new OttLite 13W Electronic Ballast (Type E) tube with the slots in the lamp socket. Gently push the bulb straight into the socket until it is firmly seated. Do not force the bulb.
- Test: Plug the lamp back into the power outlet and turn it on to confirm the new bulb is working correctly.
Video: This video demonstrates the correct installation of an OttLite 13W Electronic Ballast tube into a compatible lamp and highlights the incompatibility of an Electronic tube with a Magnetic ballast lamp, and vice-versa.
4. Operation and Benefits
Once installed, the OttLite 13W Electronic Ballast tube operates instantly, providing clear and comfortable illumination. This bulb is designed to deliver natural daylight indoors, offering several benefits:
- Reduced Eyestrain: The specialized light spectrum helps minimize eye fatigue during extended use.
- Clarity and Detail: See fine print, intricate details, and colors with enhanced accuracy.
- Low Glare and Heat: Provides comfortable lighting without excessive glare or heat emission.
- Energy Efficient: A 13-watt OttLite bulb provides light output roughly equivalent to a 60-watt incandescent bulb, consuming less energy.
Figure 5: The OttLite bulb is engineered to deliver natural daylight indoors, enhancing visual comfort and clarity.
5. Maintenance and Lifespan
The OttLite 13W Electronic Ballast tube is designed for long-lasting performance. This light bulb is rated to last up to 10,000 hours under normal usage conditions. No specific maintenance beyond proper installation and handling is required for the bulb itself.
Figure 6: The OttLite 13W bulb offers an extended lifespan of up to 10,000 hours.
6. Troubleshooting
If your new OttLite 13W replacement tube does not illuminate after installation, consider the following:
- Incorrect Bulb Type: The most common issue is using a Type E (Electronic) bulb in a lamp designed for a Type A (Magnetic) ballast, or vice-versa. Refer to Section 2: "Identifying the Correct Bulb" to ensure compatibility.
- Improper Installation: Ensure the bulb's pins are fully and correctly seated in the lamp socket. Gently remove and re-insert the bulb, ensuring a secure connection.
- Power Supply: Verify that the lamp is securely plugged into a working power outlet. Test the outlet with another device if unsure.
- Lamp Malfunction: If the bulb is confirmed to be the correct type and properly installed, and the power supply is working, the issue may lie with the lamp itself.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | OttLite |
| Model Name | OttLite PL13-E-FFP 13W Replacement Tube with Electronic Ballast |
| Light Type | CFL (Compact Fluorescent Light) |
| Wattage | 13 Watts |
| Incandescent Equivalent Wattage | 75 Watts |
| Bulb Shape Size | T2 |
| Bulb Base | G23 |
| Light Color | Daylight |
| Color Temperature | 2700 Kelvin |
| Brightness | 600 Lumen |
| Rated Lifespan | Up to 10,000 hours |
| Product Dimensions | 1.2"W x 1.76"H (approx. 7 inches long) |
| Item Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Style | Electronic |
8. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information or further assistance, please refer to the official OttLite User Manual included with your product or visit the OttLite website.
You can also contact OttLite customer service for support:
- Customer Service Phone: 800-842-8848 (as indicated in product information)
- Online User Manual (PDF): Download PDF
- OttLite Store: Visit OttLite Brand Store on Amazon
