Are you upgrading your property to more energy-efficient appliances? If you’re replacing your old thermostat with a smart thermostat, chances are that the old thermostat contains liquid mercury, especially if it was manufactured before 2006.

The Silent Threat: Understanding Mercury Exposure

Mercury, a toxic heavy metal, can be found in older thermostats as a key component of the temperature control mechanism. When these thermostats age or break, they pose a significant risk of releasing mercury vapor. Inhalation of mercury vapor can have detrimental effects on both immediate and long-term health, making it crucial to address this potential threat proactively.

Take Control: Steps to Ensure Safety

Step 1: Replace Your Mercury Thermostat with a New, Safe Model

Upgrade your thermostat to a modern, digital model that does not contain mercury. These newer thermostats offer precise temperature control, energy efficiency, and peace of mind knowing that your property is free from the risks associated with mercury.

To learn how to safely replace your old thermostat, visit thermostatcare.org.

Step 2: Safely Dispose of Your Mercury Thermostat at a Drop-Off Location

Once you’ve replaced your old thermostat, it’s crucial to ensure proper disposal of it. Go to https://thermostatcare.org/ to find the drop-off location nearest you in California.

At the drop-off location, fill out a form and place it in the bag with your old mercury thermostat. The bag will then be processed and the $30 mail-in rebate will be sent to you.

Join the Movement: Spread Awareness and Take Action

By learning about the risks associated with mercury thermostats and sharing this knowledge with others, you can promote a safer living environment for all. Encourage friends, family, and neighbors to check their thermostats, replace them with newer models, and responsibly dispose of old mercury thermostats at nearby drop-off locations.

Thermostat Care is a stewardship program that was tasked by the California Department of Toxic Substances Control to safely dispose of mercury-containing thermostats to protect human and environmental health in the state. We form partnerships across the state to remove mercury thermostats from circulation and send them to a safe containment facility.