Does EPA recommend the use of CFLs?

Yes. CFLs, when compared with standard incandescent bulbs, offer many benefits. First, they help save energy and money. They use 75% less energy than standard incandescent light bulbs, and last up to 10 times longer. Replacing a 60-watt incandescent with a 15-watt CFL can save you at least $30 in energy costs over the life of the bulb. Second, CFLs offer convenience, because they last longer, and come in different sizes and shapes to fit almost any fixture. In addition, CFLs produce about 70% less heat than standard incandescent bulbs, so they’re safer to operate and can help cut energy costs associated with home cooling. When shopping, always look for ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs.

Is it true that CFLs contain mercury? Why and how much?

CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury sealed within the glass tubing – an average of 5 milligrams (roughly equivalent to the tip of a ball-point pen). Mercury is an essential, irreplaceable element in CFLs and is what allows the bulb to be an efficient light source. By comparison, older home thermometers contain 500 milligrams of mercury and many manual thermostats contain up to 3000 milligrams. It would take between 100 and 600 CFLs to equal those amounts. There is currently no substitute for mercury in CFLs; however, manufacturers have taken significant steps to reduce mercury used in their fluorescent lighting products over the past decade.

Should I be concerned about using CFLs in my home, or should I take any special precautions?

CFLs are safe to use in your home. No mercury is released when the bulbs are in use and they pose no danger to you or your family when used properly. However, CFLs are made of glass tubing and can break if dropped or roughly handled. Be careful when removing the lamp from its packaging, installing it, or replacing it. Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base, and never forcefully twist the CFL into a light socket by its tubes. Used CFLs should be disposed of properly using the guidance below.

What do I do if I break a fluorescent bulb?

If you happen to accidentally break a fluorescent bulb, keep people and pets away from the breakage area until the cleanup is complete. Visit Revised Cleanup Guidance for details.

What type of fluorescent bulbs may I recycle?

You may recycle all types of fluorescent bulbs including circular tubes, u-bend fluorescent tubes, compact fluorescent bulbs, high-intensity discharge lamps, fluorescent tubes up to eight feet in length.

What should I do with a CFL when it burns out?

Follow these guidelines to dispose your CFL properly: • Like paint, batteries, thermostats, and other hazardous household items, CFLs should be disposed of properly. Do not throw CFLs away in your household garbage.

To find out how to recycle your fluorescent bulbs visit the following web sites:

• www.earth911.org where you can find disposal options by using your zip code
• Minnesota Office of Environmental Assistance Household Hazardous waste programs to view HHW center locations by county