CFL Bulbs and Safety

Burning Out

• CFL bulbs sometimes pop, emit smoke, emit an odor and turn black at the base when they burn out. This is normal and is not a fire hazard or dangerous in any way.

Recycling

• CFL bulbs contain small amounts of mercury, about 1 percent of the mercury in a mercury thermometer. Consumers should recycle CFL bulbs after they burn out to avoid introducing mercury into the environment. Recycle CFL bulbs at a hazardous waste facility or at retailers such as Home Depot, Lowes or IKEA.

Alternatives

• Consumers who don't want to use CFL bulbs can save energy by choosing light-emitting diode (LED) lights over traditional incandescent bulbs. LED lights use up to 90 percent less energy than incandescent lights, according to UL.