How to Remove Used Fluorescent Bulbs
Fluorescent light bulbs are an energy-efficient alternative to incandescent light bulbs. They are commonly used in overhead lights in commercial buildings, and the compact fluorescent light (CFL) is used in homes. A bulb contains about five milligrams of mercury, which reacts to gases and other materials in the bulb to produce light. Expired bulbs should be recycled, and some stores and facilities take them for free. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Turn off the light switch that controls the power to the bulbs that you will be removing. For added safety, you may also shut the power off at the main circuit breaker to minimize the risk of electrical shock.
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Remove the plastic light cover by unclipping one side of the cover at a time. Fluorescent light covers do nothing more than hang in place. Older light fixture covers may have become brittle with age, so be careful not to flex the plastic any more than is required to avoid damaging the cover.
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Grip both ends of the fluorescent bulb and twist the bulb counterclockwise 90 degrees, or until the bulb begins to drop out of the contact channel easily. Carefully lay the bulb on a flat surface so it does not break. Handle broken bulbs with gloves to avoid contact with the mercury in the gas inside the bulb. Undamaged bulbs are safe to handle without gloves.
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Lay fluorescent bulbs inside a cardboard box for safe and easy transportation, and take them to a recycling center. The Home Depot takes old fluorescent bulbs and recycles them for you at no cost. There are other online resources that ask for your zip code and will then tell you where to take your bulbs. One is LampRecycle.org.
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Tips & Warnings
The terms "fluorescent bulb" and "fluorescent tube" are generally used interchangeably.
Plastic bulb covers are available that will catch the glass if a bulb suddenly pops or is broken. If a fluorescent bulb breaks, open a window and allow fresh air into the room for 15 to 30 minutes. Wear protective gloves when handling the glass.
