Energy Saving Light Bulbs

Energy saving light bulbs available are:

• Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs): these are the most common - available in stick shape, candle shape, small or medium screw and bayonet fittings. Dimmer switches require special dimming energy saving light bulbs.
• Energy saving halogen light bulbs: a good option if you have halogen lights in your home. They consume around 30% less electricity than standard halogen bulbs.
• LED lights: are progressing rapidly and can now be used to replace existing halogen.

100w bulbs waste up to 95% of energy as heat? Fit one energy saving light bulb and save on average £3 a year – change all your bulbs and save up to £45 per year.

Safe Disposal of Energy Saving Light Bulbs

The Government, retailers and energy companies are working together to phase on inefficient light bulbs, in accordance with regulations adopted by the European Commission.

As we phase out inefficient light bulbs, householders are reminded that energy Saving Light bulbs contain a very small amount of mercury, and therefore need to be recycled/ disposed of correctly.

All retailers who sell energy saving bulbs are obligated under the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations to provide information to the public about where they can take waste bulbs to recycle them. Most retailers have funded Designated Collection Facilities where you can recycle bulbs. These are normally found at local authority Tips:

Find your nearest Tip »

When a bulb does break, although it’s unlikely to cause harm, it is always best to minimize exposure to mercury and broken glass. The best thing to do is to:

• Ventilate and vacate the room for at least 15 minutes
• Use rubber gloves to clean up, and put all particles and glass fragments in a plastic bag
• Gently sweep up all particles and glass fragments but don’t use a vacuum cleaner
• Wipe the area with a damp cloth, and then add that cloth to the plastic bag
• Don’t put in with the household rubbish collection
• Take to the local Household Waste Recycling Centre (District centres are located at Whitfield, Deal and Sandwich) and place in the correct recycling container.

 

Contact

Tel: 01304 872414

Email: energy@dover.gov.uk