Living with compact flourescent light (CFL) bulbs

CFL bulbs are a great way to help conserve energy and save money. The ENERGY STAR qualified CFL uses about 75 percent less energy than standard lighting while providing bright, warm light and lasts up to 10 times longer than standard bulbs. A CFL bulb also saves an average of $30 or more in energy costs during its lifetime.

However, it is important handle and dispose of CFLs properly. CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury – equivalent to the amount that would cover the tip of a ballpoint pen – which could be released if broken. Generally, CFLs are safe to use in your home. No mercury is released when the bulbs are in use and they pose no danger when used properly.

Using CFLs 
Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions on the package. Match the bulb to the location.  Some CFLs are not designed to be used in closed-in areas such as recessed lighting. The EPA offers more information on using CFLs.   

Disposing of CFLs
Special care also should be taken when disposing of CFLs.

• Recycle locally. It is best to recycle your CFL bulb. To find a residential CFL recycling program in your area, visit earth911.org or lamprecycle.org or call 1-800-CLEAN-UP. Consumers can contact their local municipal solid waste agency directly, or identify local recycling options from the EPA or Earth911.
• Take it to an IKEA store. IKEA stores take back used CFLs, in addition to batteries and other toxic household items.
• Take it to a Household Hazardous Waste Collection site. If recycling is not an option, place the CFL bulb in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it the same way you would batteries, oil-based paint and motor oil at a local Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Site. Most counties in New Jersey offer collection and recycling of CFL bulbs at HHW days.  (Note: This is usually available only to residents, not businesses.) To find your county household hazardous waste coordinator, visit http://www.njhazwaste.com/.
• Double-bag it. If the local HHW does not accept CFLs, place the bulb in a plastic bag and dispose of it in the regular trash. If your state permits you to put used or broken CFLs in the garbage, seal the bulb in two plastic bags and put it into the outside trash, or other protected outside location, for the next normal trash collection. CFLs should not be disposed of in an incinerator.
  (Note: When in doubt, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper disposal.)
• Return it to the retailer. ENERGY STAR-qualified CFLs have a warranty. If the bulb has failed within the warranty period, return it to your retailer.

If a CFL breaks …
It is important to know how to safely handle CFL bulbs and how to properly dispose of used and broken bulbs. When using a CLF bulb, carefully remove it from the box and screw the bulb in by holding the base. If the bulb should break, follow these important tips:

• If weather permits, open a window to ventilate the area for at least 15 minutes.
• Sweep up all glass fragments and fine particles using stiff paper to collect them. Do not vacuum.
• Place broken pieces and paper in a plastic bag. Wipe the area with a damp paper towel to pick up any stray shards of glass or fine particles. Put the used towel in the plastic bag.
• Sticky tape such as masking tape or duct tape can be used to pick up small pieces and powder, especially on carpet. Place tape in the bag.
• Seal the bag tightly inside a second bag.
• Place the bag outside for normal disposal.
• Wash your hands!

Building better disposal options
In New Jersey, PSEG is working with NJDEP, NJBPU, retailers and county household hazardous waste coordinators to ensure safe, convenient ways to dispose of CFLs. Nationally, the EPA is working with CFL manufacturers and major U.S. retailers to expand recycling and disposal options.

Beyond CFLs … LEDs and fiber optics
Light-emitting-diode (LED) bulbs and fiber optic lighting are the next generation of energy-efficient lighting.

• LEDs -- Still expensive and more commonly available for use in residential accent lamps and chandeliers, LEDs are preferred over CFLs due to their focused light and their color variety. They also have a longer life and increased efficiency; current LED bulbs last up to 60,000 hours and can use as little as two watts of energy.
• Fiber optic lighting -- Already in use in grocers like Whole Foods and Albertsons, fiber optic lightings uses 80 percent less energy than halogen lights or incandescents and generates no heat (making them ideal for grocery-store freezers). One major manufacturer, Fiberstars, plans to introduce residential fiber optic products within the next year or so.