Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs 

Replacing incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs is one way for Virginians to reduce their energy consumption, reduce pollution and save money. A CFL uses 80% less electricity than an incadescent bulb. And while initially CFLs are more expensive than the traditional lightbulb, they can save a significant amount of money over time because they last so much longer. One of the main concerns with CFL usage is the mercury they contain. A CFL does contain about 4mg of mercury, but actually prevents more than 7.5mg of mercury from being produced by emissions from power generation.  For information about compact fluorescent lightbulbs and mercury issues, breakage, proper disposal and recycling options, please see the list of frequently asked questions below and possible recycling resources. 

Note: Earth911 has online listing of local retailers that offer recycling options for CFLs to the public. Please contact the store(s) listed by Earth911 directly for more information and if they charge a fee to recycle.

EPA Guidelines for Cleaning Up a Broken CFL

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are CFLs hazardous?
• Can I recycle CFLs?
• Can I dispose of CFLs in the trash?
• Should I save bulbs at home until I can recycle them?
• Will I get sick if I clean up a broken bulb?
• Do I have to hire a hazardous waste company to clean up a broken bulb?
• How do I clean up a broken bulb?

Are CFLs hazardous?

CFLs contain mercury, a toxic metal, sealed inside the glass tube.  If broken, an uncertain amount, less than 4-5mg, is released into the air and on to the glass and powder that the bulb is made of.  Any release of a toxic material has the chance to cause exposure to people or animals that come in contact with it.

Can I recycle CFLs?

Yes.  In central Virginia, you can recycle CFLs.  AERC in Ashland, Virginia will accept CFLs for recycling from the public on Fridays only, for a fee of $0.25 per bulb.  Earth911 has an online listing of local retailers that offer recycling options for CFLs to the public. Please contact the store(s) listed by Earth911 directly for more information and if they charge a fee to recycle.

 

Can I dispose of CFLs in the trash?

Yes.  Place the CFL in a plastic bag and put in with your regular trash; try not to break the bulb.

 

Should I save bulbs at home until I can recycle them?

It depends.  It is ideal to recycle the bulbs if it can be done safely, as you do not want the bulbs to become broken and present a safety hazard.  To save bulbs for recycling, place them in a plastic bag and put them in a rigid container such as a coffee can.  Keep them away from children and pets and out of the way to prevent them from being broken.

 

Will I get sick if I clean up a broken bulb?

No. To clean up a broken bulb you simply need to follow a few precautions to avoid exposure to mercury.  For proper clean up instructions, see How do I clean up a broken bulb?

 

Do I have to hire a hazardous waste company to clean up a broken bulb?

No.  For proper clean up instructions, see How do I clean up a broken bulb?

 

How do I clean up a broken bulb?

First, turn off all circulating air/heat and provide extra ventilation from windows or doors.  Leave the area for 15 minutes and then return to pick up the broken pieces.  Use tape to help pick up the small particles and powder left behind.  Wipe the area with a damp paper towel or if on carpet, vacuum the area.  If using a vacuum cleaner, use extra ventilation in the room and upon completion, clean the vacuum canister or throw away the vacuum bag.  All broken bulb pieces and any 

materials used in cleaning should be placed in a plastic bag.  This bag should immediately be taken to an outdoor trash can where it is not accesible to pets or children.  

 

New Guidelines from the EPA for Cleaning Up a Broken CFL

 

Additional Resources for Information:

 

 

EPA, click here for more info on CFLs

VA Department of Environmental Quality

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Energy Star

GE Lighting

www.lamprecycle.org

Earth911.org