After converting all your old incandescent to CFLs it seems like a waste to simply throw those used bulbs away. Properly recycling used CFLs is just as important as making the conversion from incandescents. CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, less than the amount in a typical thermometer, but enough that proper disposal is important.
There are various County locations as well as private businesses that accept used CFLs. Also, if your bulb is Energy Star certified and it fails to last one year it can be exchanged for a new bulb at its place of purchase.
Arlington County recycles used CFLs as part of their household hazardous materials (HHM) program. Drop-off locations include:
- Aurora Hills Library at 735 S. 18th St., 703-228-5715
- Central Library at 1015 N. Quincy St., 703-228-5990
- Courthouse Plaza Library at 2100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-228-3352
- Solid Waste Bureau at 4300 S. 29th St., 703-228-6570
- HHM Disposal Facility at 530 S. 31st St., 703-228-6832. Only open Saturdays.
Operation times for these locations vary, so please call for details.
Some businesses also accept used CFLs. We’ve included some examples and the nearest locations. (Note – by listing this information, ACE is not endorsing these companies.)
- Home Depot at 6210 Seven Corners Center, Falls Church, 703-534-9580
- MOM’s Organic Market at 3831 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria.
For more recycling locations and information, please visit Earth 911’s web site or disposal facts featured on Arlington County’s recycling web site.
