Energy-Efficient Lighting: How to Use CFLs Safely

Switching from traditional incandescent light bulbs to CFLs is a bright idea to save energy and money. Because each bulb has small amounts of mercury, you need to take a few simple steps to use and dispose of these energy efficient options properly.

Are You Worried About Mercury in CFLs?

A CFL costs about 75% less money to run, pays for itself in about six months and lasts up to 10 years. To help CFLs do this great work, they contain trace amounts of mercury – only about four milligrams (mg) in each bulb. That’s an infinitesimal amount compared with old thermometers, which contain about 500 mg of mercury, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  

Because electricity use is the main source of mercury emissions in the United States, the EPA says CFLs actually reduce the total amount of mercury in the environment because they use less electricity than traditional bulbs.

When CFLs are intact and in use, they release absolutely no mercury. However, there are suggested rules for management, cleaning and recycling.

How do I Properly Manage a CFL?

• Turn it off before you handle a bulb. Although a working CFL is not nearly as hot as a traditional incandescent, it needs just a bit of time to cool, especially if it has been on for a long period of time.
  
• Hold it carefully to avoid breaking a CFL. The EPA suggests holding the plastic or ceramic base of the bulb instead of the glass tubing.
  
• Don’t twist too tightly. Gently screw in CFLs until they are snug – do not over tighten.
  
• Don’t choose rowdy spaces. CFLs should not be put in open play spaces or locations in your home where children are likely to bump into and smash them.  

What if a CFL Breaks?

• Clear the room. If a CFL breaks, send people and pets out of the room.
  
• Open a window and turn off A/C. Directly after a bulb breaks, air out the room for 5-10 minutes by opening your windows or doors. At the same time, shut off any central air systems because they circulate air throughout a home.
  
• Clean up with caution. Thoroughly collect all broken glass and any visible powder. Place the materials in a sealable container. Do not use a vacuum cleaner because it can stir up the mercury and trap some within the vacuum. Instead, use duct tape, or another large width tape, to pick up small pieces and powder.  
  
• Double check the area you were cleaning and put the bulb debris outdoors until the cleaned-up materials can be disposed of properly.  

Where do I Recycle CFLs?

• Find recycling and waste centers in your area that have hazardous waste drop-off locations through Earth911.
  
• Visit local retailers that have in-store recycling. For instance, Lowe’s and Home Depot stores both have CFL recycling programs.
  
• Learn about mail-back services that provide pre-labeled recycling kits you can use to send CFLs to recycling centers. Osram Sylvania is one of the companies providing this service.

Great Websites on How to Use CFLs

Find additional tips and resources on the Alliance’s Living Efficiently website and on the EPA’s website.

You can also learn about recycling CFLs with Home Depot, Lowe’s and Osram Sylvania.