Modern light bulbs have a longer life span than ever. Eventually though, they need to be replaced. This is where it gets tricky, because different types of light bulbs require different types of disposal.
This guide outlines how to dispose of light bulbs of all types.
How to Dispose of Incandescent Light Bulbs
Incandescent light bulbs are the easiest to dispose because they can be thrown in the household trash. In most cases, the amount of metal and glass in incandescent light bulbs is too small and complicated to recover by recycling. However, check local sources to see if your recycling center accepts incandescent lightbulbs.
If the bulb is broken, wrap the pieces securely in heavy paper such as newsprint, so that glass shards don't cut through the garbage bag. This makes garbage pickup safer for both you and the waste collector.
Incandescent bulbs can be upcycled, or used for another project. Research online for safe ways to prep incandescent bulbs for crafts. Then have fun transforming old bulbs into new decor.
How to Dispose of Halogen Bulbs
Halogen bulbs can be thrown away safely in the household trash. They pose little environmental threat but are difficult to recycle. Halogen bulbs are made from thicker glass than incandescent bulbs, so they won’t break as easily. However, it is still wise to wrap a halogen bulb before throwing it away. Place the spent bulb in the packaging the new bulb comes in and then toss the entire thing. If you are intent on recycling, check your local recycling center to see if they accept halogen bulbs.
How to Dispose of CFL Bulbs
Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL) are a popular bulb style. CFL light bulbs use less energy than incandescent bulbs and are available in various shapes. However, these bulbs should never be thrown away in household trash. CFL bulbs contain mercury, which is toxic to humans and pets. Even though most bulbs contain only about 4 milligrams, CFL bulbs thrown into a landfill can leak toxins into groundwater and taint the drinking water supply in the local area. Proper light bulb disposal is one small way to support the long-term health of your community.
There are several retailers who accept intact and undamaged CFL bulbs for recycling, including The Home Depot. There are also a few online services that allow you to mail in bulbs to be recycled.
If a CFL bulb breaks inside your home, clean it up immediately using these tips:
- Get everyone, including pets, out of the room.
- Open the windows, turn off the HVAC system, and close the door if possible.
- Allow the room to air out for at least 10 minutes, then follow EPA guidelines for cleanup.
How to Dispose of LED Bulbs
Many people throw away LED light bulbs, but they should be recycled. LEDs use tiny microchips to conduct electrical current. These include trace amounts of heavy metals such as lead and arsenic. Some communities have recycling collections for LED bulbs to try to prevent them from ending up in a landfill.
It is always a good idea to see what options exist for LED recycling rather than to outright trash them. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency publishes a list of places that recycle light bulbs. Also check with The Home Depot in your area to see if they recycle LED light bulbs.
How to Dispose of Fluorescent Tubes
Like CFLs, fluorescent tube lights contain mercury. The glass in the tube is very fragile. They are not permitted to be thrown away in regular trash or put out curbside for collection as they are considered to be hazardous waste. Some local recycling programs have special recycling protocols for these tubes. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency publishes a list of places that recycle these light bulbs. Also check with The Home Depot in your area to see if they recycle fluorescent light bulbs.
The main problem with disposing light bulbs is that the rules and options vary widely, even across a single region. Always check with your local waste management authorities to find out the guidelines for recycling light bulbs, or what light bulb disposal options are available in your community. They will have the most up-to-date recycling information for your region. Contact your local The Home Depot to see what options they offer for recycling light bulbs, batteries and other spent electronics.
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