Introduction: What to Salvage From Energy Saver Light Bulb

By
About: I find it impossible to enter information "about me" on sites.... Please ask me if you would like to know.

Stop throwing away those blown bulbs!

Salvage the electronic goodies inside!

You will be surprised how much electronic components are hiding in there.......

Step 1: Safety

You are working with glass, so proper safety gloves and eye ware must be worn!

1) Safety Glasses;
2) Safety Gloves;
3) Mouth and nose mask.

Firstly let me just say that some websites claim that their experts decided that these bulbs have dangerous amounts of mercury in them and the same amount of websites claim the opposite.......

So, that is the reason for the facial mask....you know.....just in case....

....wash your hands and exposed areas after you do this!

....Also.....I know I am not wearing gloves in the instructable, but like my dad used to say: "Do as I say and not as I do!"

Please excuse any spelling and grammar mistakes, as English is not my first language.

Enjoy!

Step 2: Tools and Equipment

You will need the following tools and equipment:

1) Blown energy saver bulb;
2) Large flathead screwdriver;
3) Small side cutter.

Step 3: Open Up the Bulb

Photo 1 shows the "breathing holes" of this particular bulb.

My large flathead screwdriver fits in there nicely.

Insert the tip of the screwdriver as shown in photo 2.

Take care while holding the glass so that you don't break the glass that WILL cut you and also the possibility of merury inside the tubes....

With only the tip inserted, slowly turn you screwdriver as you would if you where unscrewing a screw.

The lip will open up and the plastic piece will break open as shown in photo 3. Repeat with the other holes.

Photo 4 and 5 reveals the hidden electronic components inside!!!

It is a lot.....did not expect to find this much in there.

Step 4: Cut the Wires

Photo 1 shows 2 wires that you must cut with you side cutter.

Cut them to get the result as shown in photo 2.

Photo 3 shows the 4 wires you must cut to get to the result as shown in photo 4 and 5.

Enjoy you free electronic components and give them new life by using them in other projects!

I hope you enjoyed this instructable and that I could help someone here.