How to Dispose of Carbon Monoxide Detectors
A carbon monoxide detector is one of the most important items in any home, so it's important to replace old detectors when they no longer function properly. But what do you do with the old detector?
Carbon monoxide detectors do not contain any radioactive materials, making them much easier and safer to dispose of than regular fire detectors. Environmentally conscious consumers can follow these guidelines when getting rid of that old carbon monoxide detector.
Tip
Some manufactures may let you send your old detectors back to them. Check your user's manual for more information and a return address.
Warning
Make sure you take the batteries out of the carbon monoxide detector before you attempt to remove the casing.
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The battery is the most hazardous part of a carbon monoxide detector. Remove the battery and take the necessary steps for properly discarding it. If it's an alkaline battery you can discard it with your normal trash, but be careful not to group batteries together when you throw them away. If the batteries touch they may become "live," which causes them to heat up and possibly leak.
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If your carbon monoxide detector has a rechargeable battery, make sure you dispose of it according to your local hazardous materials collection schedule. You can find your town's specific collection time at www.call2recycle.org. Many large chains, like Target and Lowe's, will gladly accept all used rechargeable batteries.
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Most carbon monoxide detectors have a plastic cover or face plate which can be recycled. With a flat-head screwdriver, gently pry the casing away from the body of the detector. Your detector may have other plastic parts. Be careful to properly identify the material before recycling it. Some parts have plastic "shielding" and can contain metals or non-recyclable materials.
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Once you've removed all batteries and recyclable casings, you can safely discard of the carbon monoxide detector with your normal trash.
The Drip Cap
- A carbon monoxide detector is one of the most important items in any home, so it's important to replace old detectors when they no longer function properly.
- Environmentally conscious consumers can follow these guidelines when getting rid of that old carbon monoxide detector.
- If it's an alkaline battery you can discard it with your normal trash, but be careful not to group batteries together when you throw them away.
- Some parts have plastic "shielding" and can contain metals or non-recyclable materials.
References
Writer Bio
Based in Morgantown, W.Va., Aaron Rote has been writing about arts, culture and entertainment since 2002. His articles and columns have appeared in several state newspapers, including "The Daily Athenaeum" and "The Herald-Dispatch." Rote received his Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from West Virginia University.
Photo Credits
- fire detector on ceiling image by StarJumper from Fotolia.com
- fire detector on ceiling image by StarJumper from Fotolia.com
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