Correct Disposal of Energy Efficient Light bulbs.

 

Replacing incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient light bulbs (compact fluorescent light bulbs or CFLs) is not only better for the environment but can also save you money.  An average user can save up to $15.00 per light bulb per year. 

 

Energy-saving CFLs contain small quantities of mercury. Most modern CFLs contain fewer than 5 milligrams, an amount approximately equivalent to the tip of a ballpoint pen. To put this into perspective, it takes between 100 and 600 CFLs to make up the mercury in a common household thermometer.

 

 

Are CFLs safe?

The small amount of mercury sealed in a CFL does not pose a hazard to users. However, mercury is a toxic metal and every product containing mercury should be handled with care. You should dispose of used CFLs properly and clean up any broken CFLs safely.

 

Using energy-saving CFLs may actually reduce the amount of mercury released into the atmosphere, where it most affects our health.  How?

 

•         Most mercury in the air comes from burning fossil fuels to generate electricity.

•         CFLs use 80% less energy than a standard incandescent bulb, reducing the need for electricity production.

•         CFLs thus help to reduce mercury emissions, as well as carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions. 

 

 

How do I safely dispose of CFLs?

Recycling is the best way to dispose of used CFLs.  While businesses, hospitals and schools often pay a recycling company to collect CFLs and fluorescent tubes, households should utilise the free household chemical "Cleanout" program managed by the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change. These are held regularly, and details are available on the www.cleanout.com.au website.

 

 

Lighting tips to save energy

Use these tips to help reduce your household lighting:

 

 

•         Replace incandescent bulbs with CFLs, especially in rooms where lights are on for long periods.

•         Use the lowest wattage bulb required to meet each room’s lighting needs.

•         Turn off the lights of unoccupied rooms.

•         Turn outside lights off when you’re not using them.

•         Consider using timers and sensors for outdoor lights.

•         Regularly dust your low energy light bulbs and fittings.

•         Make the most of natural light. Open curtains and blinds during daylight hours.

•         When you’re wiring up your home, allocate one switch per light rather than turning on multiple lights with the           one switch.

•         Use two-way switching in rooms with two exits to ensure lights may be turned off when leaving the room.

•         Use table or floor lamps fitted with CFLs where most light is required so that you don’t light unoccupied                  areas of the room.

•        Choose light fittings that allow most of the light through so a lower wattage lamp can be used. Some light          fittings can block 50% or more of the light, especially those with coloured glass.