How to Dispose of a Compact Fluorescent

Compact fluorescent bulbs must be disposed of properly.

Compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs help the environment by reducing energy consumption. However, CFL bulbs have a small amount of mercury that can harm the environment if the bulb breaks. Recycling the bulb properly ensures that the mercury does not seep into our natural resources. Recycling a CFL bulb takes a little more work than putting it into a recycling container or taking it to a local recycling center. Only certain facilities will be able to take and recycle the CFL bulbs.

Things You'll Need

• Stepladder or stool
• Box or bag
• Old newspaper

Instructions

1. Turn off power to the light with the CFL bulb. This will allow the bulb to cool off and prevent an electric shock when you take out the bulb.

2. Remove the bulb from the light socket by screwing the bulb out counterclockwise or to the left. You may need a stepladder or stool to reach the bulb safely.

3. Wrap the bulb with the old newspaper and place the bulb in a box or bag to bring to the proper recycling location. Do not to break the glass part of the bulb as you transport it to the recycling center.

4. Place the bulb in the appropriate bin or give it to the appropriate person. Once in the correct place, the CFL bulb will be recycled.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact the local power company by telephone or Internet and find the name and location of places to recycle your CFL bulb.

References

• Environmental Protection Agency: Recycling and Disposal After a CFL Burns Out