Energy Tip: Recycling CFL Bulbs

Compact florescent light (CFL) bulbs are gaining in popularity as they use 75% less energy than standard incandescent light bulbs. It is also easy to convert to CFLs. You simply replace old light bulbs in your existing light fixtures, with new CFLs.

However CFLs contain mercury which makes their disposal more challenging. Home Depot has announced a CFL recycling program. Bring unbroken CFLs in a plastic bag and place in one of the designated brigh orange collection units. Home Depot will coordinate the packaging, transportation and recycling of your CFLs.

To clean up a broken florescent bulb (EPA recommended steps):

• Before cleaning up, air out the room and shut off heating/cooling systems.
• Scoop up glass fragments and place in a sealed plastic bag.
• Use sticky tape to gather up all glass fragments, and dispose in sealed plastic bag.
• Clean the area with damp paper towels or vacuum - place all materials including vacuum cleaner bag into a sealed plastic bag.
• Move sealed plastic bag outside & dispose in normal trash unless prohibited by local law.
• Wash your hands.
• For the next few cleanings, open windows and turn off heating/cooling systems.

For a more detailed set of cleaning instructions, read the EnergyStar FAQs on Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) and Mercury.