How to Dispose of Projector Lamps

Many short-throw and leading long-throw projector lamps use metal halide bulbs, a subcategory of high-intensity discharge (HID) bulbs. Although these types of lamps used to be common, they have steadily been replaced by safer light bulbs that do not contain mercury. The type of lighting directly affects the best projectors during every function.

You should also check out our article how do I know if my projector bulb is going bad. As a result, you should recycle your projector lamps as they expire through local retailers, mail-ins to the manufacturer, or through a waste collection agency.

Disposing of Projector Lamps

The best way to dispose of projector lamps, Screen Innovations projector screens, and other types of hazardous material is to research what methods can be used for elimination. However, we have done the research for you, so you can rest easy and choose from one of these options: lamp recycling through a hardware retailer, mailing the lamp into a projector lamp source, or through a waste management company. After deciding how to dispose of a projection lamp, you may want to know how to replace a projector bulb with an LED. Plus, if you’re going to replace the bulb, you may need to replace the projector lens, too. 

Retailers who Recycle Mercury-containing Lamps

Many home appliance retailers offer recycling at their stores. However, you will need to check with your local store before going to ensure that they are participating in the recycling program, especially if you have fluorescent tubes. These stores include Home Depot, Ikea, Lowe’s, and TrueValue, as well as some region-specific stores such as Aubuchon Hardware and Bartell Drugs. Make sure you know which type of lamp you have so they can confirm whether they accept those incandescent bulbs.

Mail-back Services for Projector Lamps

You may be able to mail in your used light bulb through the use of a pre-labeled recycling kit. These are sold by bulb manufacturers and other organizations. You purchase the kit and then send in your used bulb through the mail to a specified recycling center. Some brands that offer this service include EcoLights, Everlight, Inc, and Lampmaster. When packaging the bulb up for mailing, be careful when handling it and package them as described. The recycling center will handle the product after that, preventing them from going to landfills.

Waste Collection Agency

Some waste collection agencies collect hazardous wastes, but they may charge a fee to do so. Because of this fee, you may want to look at more than one to find the best option for your area. In some states, you can place the mercury-containing lamps within a plastic bag and put it in the trash for collection. However, if you’re area does not, you can likely find a service for collection by looking at the EPA website or your local government’s health website.

Dangers of Mercury Exposure

Mercury is found naturally in volcanic eruptions and emissions from the ocean. However, the greatest chance of mercury exposure comes from eating fish or shellfish that was in contaminated water. Mercury can also be found in various technologies including some light bulbs, thermometers, jewelry, or dental fillings. If these items break, the mercury is released, exposing the user to the metal. Some of the symptoms of mercury exposure are tremors, insomnia, headaches, and emotional changes. Additionally, changes to neuromuscular functions, sensations, nerve responses, and mental functions are possible.

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