An Overviews of Used Thermostat 

The demand for used EMS controls smart thermostats is higher than ever. More homeowners are choosing to make the upgrade to improve their temperature control capabilities at home while also increasing energy efficiency, which paves the way for more energy savings.

However, as the demand for used EMS controls thermostats increases, the environmental load increases along with it, with older models needing disposal. But instead of throwing them away, consider recycling as a better disposal option.

Types of Thermostats

There are multiple ways to categorize the different types of thermostats in most homes today, including the following; 

Mercury-Filled Thermostats

Mercury-containing thermostats are analog devices that adjust home temperature settings using a dial or level. These thermostats contain bimetal coils that either contract or expand in response to room temperature. Meanwhile, mercury acts as a switch that opens or closes a circuit for the operation of the HVAC controls.

Programmable Thermostats

Programmable thermostats automatically adjust the temperature based on the settings you input into the system. These can be adjusted however the operator likes at different times during the day.

 WiFi-Enabled Thermostats

WiFi-enabled EMS thermostats are smart devices that offer even more powerful HVAC controls, allowing users more control over their temperature preferences. Electronic sensors are integrated into the machine and can communicate directly with other components to provide the ideal room temperature. Above all, they have their own IP address and can connect directly with smart devices and the internet for even greater control.

Should You Throw Away Old Thermostats?

Homeowners considering a thermostat upgrade or replacement might be tempted to just throw the used EMS controls away. However, laws have been created to prevent the disposal of old thermostats, particularly mercury-filled thermostats, and instead, have them recycled.

Mercury inside old thermostats is housed in ampules, which can hold up to 12 grams of elemental mercury. When these thermostats are discarded together with everyday trash, the ampules can break and the mercury can escape, which can be hazardous to the environment. 

How to Recycle Replaced Thermostats 

Recycling thermostats is one of the best ways to reduce waste in landfills and prevent the introduction of hazardous waste to the environment. Here are some ways to recycle the thermostats you replace:

Drop it off at a Thermostat Recycling Corporation (TRC) Collection Site
The Thermostat Recycling Corporation (TRC) is a non-profit organization established as a joint venture between large electronics manufacturers to promote the safe collection and proper disposal of mercury-containing thermostats. They boast a vast network of household hazardous waste collection sites across the country where one can quickly dispose of their old thermostats.

Check with Local Retailers that Recycle Electronic Waste for Free

Large retailers like Best Buy and Staples offer electronic waste collection and recycling services for different electronic devices, regardless of where the item was bought. One should check with their local retailer to see if they have similar programs. 

Bring it to Household Hazardous Waste Collection sites

Various state environmental agencies and local communities have hazardous waste collection programs to help households properly dispose of their hazardous waste.