Disposal of CFLs 101

Mercury is an essential component of CFL bulbs. It reacts on the inside of the glass tube to produce light using very little electricity. Because Mercury is toxic, follow these simple guidelines when handling, disposing, recycling, and cleaing up CFL bulbs.

When removing bulbs from packaging, installing or replacing them, always handle with care. Hold bulb at the base, not by the glass part. Never forcefully twist a bulb into the light socket, and if a bulb breaks, follow these simple guidelines:

The EPA recommends consumers recycle CFLs. Local recycling options are listed at EPA bulb recycling. If your local or state government allows, place bulbs in two plastic bags and discard in an outside receptacle. NEVER incinerate a Mercury-containing product.

If a CFL bulb should break, open a window and have people and pets leave the room for at least 15 minutes. Turn off the central air and forced air furnace. If the bulb is broken on a hard surface, scoop up the glass with a stiff piece of paper or cardboard, and place them in a glass jar or sealed plastic bag. Use sticky tape to pick up the rest of the glass and powder. Use a wet paper towel to wipe up the area. Place all used clean-up materials in plastic bag or glass jar, and discard in outside receptacle. Do NOT use a vacuum or broom to clean up broken bulb. Wash your hands thoroughly after disposal of materials. Check with your local and state governments regarding procedures for recycling and disposal of broken and unbroken Mercury-containing products. 

Conduct Your Own Energy Audit

As costs rise, more consumers take an active role in managing their energy use. There are several resources you can use to make effective and money saving changes to reduce your energy bill. Please take a few minutes to look into the energy-efficiency tools and tips on our site as well as the products and services available to our members. Conduct your own energy audit; utilize the Energy Calculator to help you determine where you use the most energy, or go to the Conservation page and get fantastic tips that can save you money. Not interested in doing your own audit? Contact our Member Services Department for an appointment with an energy audit professional.

Announcements and Upcoming Events

Automated Meter Reading System Update

Consumers no longer have to read their meter(s). At the end of each month, WVEC will read all automated meters, calculate and send a bill. Your payment will be due the middle part of the month. 

Watch for new billing format coming soon! Updates to follow in the Cooperative Connections.

Learn more about automatic bill pay here: Payment Options