FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What can I do to prolong the life of my electronics?
- The easiest way to avoid recycling is to continue using an electronic device, newer seems to be typically better now days, but not really if you’re content with an old model there are plenty of ways to increase the life span you can check with the maker of the device for helpful tips.
- Removing the battery from your laptop while it’s plugged in will save the life of your batteries.
- Wait to make calls until you have good cell phone coverage if you can – your batteries will last longer.
What should I do before recycling an electronic?
Your electronic devices contain very personal data. You likely have passwords and financial information stored that can be troublesome if in the wrong hands. You definitely want to format any hard drives or SIM cards before recycling electronics.
What is the 2006 Universal Waste Law?
After February 2006, it is illegal for residents and small businesses to dispose of fluorescent lamps, household batteries, and other “Universal Waste” in the trash. Under the law , “Universal Waste” is defined as batteries, mercury thermostats, fluorescent lights, cathode ray tube devices (computer monitors, televisions), mercury thermometers, and other products containing mercury or other heavy metals. This list includes:
- Electronic devices, such as televisions and computer monitors, computers, printers, VCRs, cell phones, telephones, radios, and microwave ovens. These devices often contain heavy metals like lead, cadmium, copper, and chromium.
- Electrical switches and Relays typically contain about 3.5 grams of mercury each. Mercury switches can be found in some chest freezers, pre-1972 washing machines, sump pumps, electric space heaters, clothes irons, silent light switches, automobile hood and trunk lights, and ABS brakes.
- Pilot light sensors – Mercury-containing switches found in some gas appliances, such as stoves, ovens, clothes dryers, water heaters, furnaces and space heaters.
- Mercury added novelties – Includes greeting cards that play music when opened, athletic shoes (made before 1997) with flashing lights in soles, and mercury maze games.
For a complete list and more details, please visit the Department of Toxic Substance Control website.