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| Proper CFL Disposal |
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CFLs contain Mercury
CFLs contain a small amount of Mercury within the glass tubes. Mercury is an important part to CFLs and what allows the bulb to be efficient. No mercury escapes while bulbs are intact or in use.
Precautions
Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base, not the bulb. CFLs are made of glass and can break if dropped or improperly handled.
What to do with a Burned out CFL?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that consumers use local recycling options for CFLs.
To find the closest disposal site:
- Contact your local municipal waste agency directly
- go to earth911.org
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If local recycling options are not available, seal the CFL in two plastic bags and put into the outside trash. CFLs should never be put in an incinerator.
How to clean up a broken CFL
- If possible, open a window and leave the room for at least 15 minutes following the incident.
- Remove material by sweeping (do not use a vacuum). If possible use disposable rubber gloves. Sticky tape can be used to pick up particles, wipe the area with a damp paper towel or wet wipe.
- Place all clean-up materials into two plastic bags and take to nearest recycling center or dispose of into outside trash immediately.
- Wash you hands after disposing.
- The first time you vacuum where the bulb was broken, the bag should be removed (or canister should be wiped down) and sealed in two plastic bags and disposed of.
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ENERGY STAR® CFLs have a warranty. If the bulb fails within the warranty period (usually 2 years), return it to your retailer.
Choosing the right CFL
Calculate the potential savings by switching to CFLs
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