Cheap Energy Blog

Important Information About CFL Bulbs

Compact fluorescent lamps or bulbs are designed to replace the standard incandescent bulb. Compared to an incandescent bulb a CFL uses less power and last longer, although they are more expensive, the savings on energy and having to replace them less often makes them a cheap energy saving light bulb and a good alternative for home energy, use, cost and savings. With all the buzz over these CFL bulbs, some very important information has been ignored. CFL bulbs contain a small amount of mercury. While they save money and energy, there are basic steps one must take in order to properly dispose of these bulbs. If the bulbs are intact you can return them to the store they were purchased at for disposal or call your local waste management for more information. If the bulb breaks you must exercise extreme caution. Most importantly, DO NOT VACUUM, doing so will spread mercury vapors through out the room. Pick up large pieces of glass with a piece of cardboard or stiff paper, use tape to lift small particles out of the carpet, then clean with a damp cloth. If possible open a window and make sure to wash your hands. Double bag all material and call your local department of hazardous waste to schedule a pick up or find a location near you.