Thermostats

updated: Monday, February 27, 2012

Before winter heating bills start adding up, consider replacing your traditional thermostat with a programmable thermostat and save about $180 a year on your energy bill.

Why are they a Problem?
Many thermostats contain mercury. Mercury is a concern because exposure to it can be harmful to humans and animals. This shiny, silver metal was once widely used in manufacturing, agriculture and other industries. It is now considered a dangerous pollutant. Mercury is a neurotoxin that damages or destroys nerve tissue at high concentrations. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should be especially careful to avoid exposure to mercury, and parents should ensure that young children are not exposed to it. Mercury affects all animals—humans and wildlife alike.

Proper Disposal of Thermostats
In Minnesota it is illegal to place any mercury-containing product or device in the trash or wastewater disposal system. All items containing mercury must be recycled. Bring them to a Hennepin County Drop-off Facility. Hennepin County accepts all types of mercury-containing products from households. Check out the County's A to Z Guide for more disposal information.

Additional Resources
Mercury Factsheet
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

See more about: hazardous waste