How to recycle fluorescent tubes

There are so many tips and tricks to help facilitate the purchase and installation of LED lights. However, what are you doing with your old fluorescent tubes? Many hospitals, offices and schools are swapping fluorescent tubes for linear LED lamps. It is important to discard fluorescent tubes correctly as they are made of glass and may contain mercury. Today, we will guide you through the steps of how to recycle your fluorescent tubes after an LED installation.

STEP 1: KEEP THE OLD TUBES IN A VENTILATED AREA

After you have removed your old fluorescent tubes, it is important to keep them in a well-ventilated area, in case they break. Fluorescent tubes contain small amounts of mercury and should be handled with care when handling.

STEP 2: PREPARE A KIT "JUST IN CASE"

In the event that a tube breaks while it is being removed, you will want to have some supplies at hand. Set aside a face mask, rubber gloves, wet paper towels and a broom to collect and remove broken glass. One thing YOU SHOULD NOT DO when cleaning broken glass is vacuum it! This can create glass particles in the air, which is dangerous.

STEP 3: FIND A FLUORESCENT RECYCLING CENTER

Because fluorescent lights are slightly different from glass bottles, they require their own recycling facilities. To find one closer to your area, you can visit the Earth911 site. Once you've done the site, type the type of bulb you want to recycle, as well as its location. This site can also be used to recycle CFL!

STEP 4: PLACE YOUR BULBS CAREFULLY

Once you have found a designated fluorescent recycling center, be sure to store your lights and handle them carefully. Do not throw them to the bed of your truck and expect the best.

TYD ELECTRONICS