A compact fluorescent lamp, or CFL, is an energy-saving light bulb. They were designed to take the place of old incandescent bulbs. CFL bulbs require more energy to turn on and heat up than incandescent bulbs, but once heated, they use 70% less energy. More lightbulbs mean more waste, so there must be a permanent solution to it. However, there is a solution that is — proper disposal. Therefore, for proper disposal, you must go with skip bin hire because they are aware of the procedure of its disposal.

However, before heading to the main disposal of fluorescent tubes here is a check to when and where to recycle them.

When To Recycle CFL Bulbs?

A 13-watt ENERGY STAR CFL lightbulb will last for at least 6,000 hours. The lamp will die after it has been completely used and will not light up again. The light will need to be replaced and recycled if this occurs. When you turn the light on, some bulbs will also ‘pop.’ A bright light will shine for a brief moment before dissipating. The lamp will be blown if this happens.

Where To Recycle CFL Bulbs?

Across the world, recycling centers have been created. CFL bulbs are accepted as recyclable commodities by many recycling centers. There are a few sites where you can see if they recycle older CFL light bulbs. When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to inquire whether a center accepts them.

1.   Waste Disposal Services In Your Neighborhood:

CFL bulbs are often recycled by local waste disposal agencies, dumps, and recycling centers. Bulb recycling may not be accessible by curbside collection. Hazardous waste can only be collected once or twice a year by others.

2.   Hardware Stores In The Area:

Many hardware stores have a recycling center where used CFL bulbs can be dropped off. Some facilities do not accept UV or other types of bulbs. Check with your local hardware store to see what policies they have in place for bulb recycling. Other small neighborhood hardware stores can provide a recycling program, but each one is unique.

3.   Online Recycling Centers:

Many online recycling companies can give you CFL bulb mail-back containers to fill. Many centers make it simple for homeowners to recycle without needing to locate a qualified recycling center nearby. This also eliminates the need to call or drive around looking for a bulb recycler.

How To Recycle CFL Bulbs?

Every location has its own policy on recycling CFL light bulbs. Some of these measures are self-evident, but they should be remembered when replacing or recycling your bulbs. People have been electrocuted simply by replacing old bulbs with new ones in the past!

1.   Remove The Bulb From The Fixture In A Safe Manner:

Switch off the light and wait 15 to 20 minutes for the old bulb to cool before touching it. Switch off the fuse for the room or unplug the lamp from which the bulb is being removed. Switch off the light until it has cooled. Slowly unscrew the lightbulb from the fixture with a towel, washcloth, or T-shirt.

2.   Place The CFL Bulb In The Correct Location:

If a CFL bulb is broken or crushed, it should be properly handled to prevent mercury from escaping. Place them in a plastic bag that is airtight. Keep them in a padded box to prevent them from breaking when in the bag. To minimize the chances of them being destroyed, mark the box they are put in.

3.   Recycle The CFL Bulb Properly:

Recycling may be done at an online mail service, a local waste collection department, or a hardware store. Learn about the policies for recycling CFL bulbs. Make use of recycling guidelines that are unique to your area.

What To Do If The Light Bulb Burns Out:

From time to time, light bulbs fail. Because of the mercury content in the lamp, many homeowners are concerned about their health. It is beneficial to be aware of the negative health effects caused by mercury, as any amount of mercury can be harmful. If a lamp bursts, though, you are only exposed to a small amount of mercury.

Here are the guidelines to know when the light bulb burns out:

1.   Before Cleaning Up:

• All, including pets, should leave the room

• For ten minutes, open a window and let the space air out

• Switch off the forced-air device if necessary

2.   During Clean Up:

• Use a hard piece of paper or cardboard to sweep up the broken bulb. DO NOT VACUUM! Vacuuming can cause the powder and mercury to be released into the air

• Pick up any pieces of glass with duct tape

• Put all of the cleaning supplies, including the bulb and powder, in an airtight sealable bag or tub

3.   After Clean Up:

• Outside the home, store all broken items and cleaning supplies

• It’s not a good idea to throw them away in a normal trash can

• With the windows open and the forced air system shut off, air out the house for as long as possible

In A Nutshell:

CFL bulbs are made entirely of recyclable materials that can be reused. CFL light bulbs must be properly recycled to avoid any inconvenience. It’s crucial to review your state’s recycling laws to see if your state needs them. Light up your room with an energy-saving bulb that can do it all, including being recycled and reused!