To continue encouraging members to do the bright thing and make energy efficiency a priority, Polk-Burnett and Dairyland Power Cooperative are again offering up to a $1.00/bulb rebate on CFLs. However, during 2010 there will be no limit to the number of bulbs that you can turn in for a rebate. New this year is a rebate for Light Emitting Diode Lamps (LED Bulbs); up to $2.00 per bulb with no limit. LEDs use 90% less energy than your standard incandescent bulb.
CFLs use about 75 percent less energy and last 10 times longer than standard bulbs. When CFLs are placed in rooms that are used most, such as kitchens, you can save about $30 over the life of each bulb. Change a light and change the world today.
CFL safety and disposal
It’s true CFLs last longer and use less energy. However, they do contain a small trace of mercury (about 5 milligrams), so it’s important to recycle them when they burn out and follow safety procedures if they break. Overall, CFLs do more benefit than harm; they actually reduce mercury pollution by reducing the need for energy from coal-fired power plants.
If you break a bulb: open windows to vent room, turn off heat or A/C blowers, scoop broken glass using stiff paper or cardboard and place into a plastic bag. Use sticky tape to pick up any small fragments. Wipe area with damp paper towel. Place tape and towel in plastic bag with broken glass, seal and dispose. Only vacuum if needed after all visible material is removed. Then put vacuum bag or vacuum debris into sealed bag before disposal.
Recycling: CFL bulbs can be recycled at the Polk County Recycling Center, A&H Recycling Center, Midtown Transfer Station, Grantsburg Recycling Center , Oakland Collection Center or check with your local hardware store. For more recycling options visit: www.focusonenergy.com/Residential/Lighting/cfl_recycling.aspx