Mercury thermostats were the standard for nearly 200 years, however they haven’t been made since the early 2000s. New digital thermostats and programmable thermostats are designed to work without mercury.
Should I replace my mercury thermostat?
Myth:Mercury-bulb thermostats should be replaced because they are inaccurate. Fact:Mercury bulb thermostats are among the most accurate for temperature control within the HVAC industry. Cheap electronic thermostats provide inferior temperature control. Myth:Mercury bulb thermostats are hazardous and should be removed.
How do I know if my mercury thermostat is bad?
There should be an open circuit when the mercury is not contacting the wire contacts and a closed connection when it is. If the thermostat fails either of these simple checks, it is defective. The easiest way to check thermostat function is to jump across the terminal screws with a jumper wire.
Are mercury thermostats illegal?
California law has prohibited the sale of mercury thermostats since 2006, but there is no requirement that you replace your existing mercury thermostat.
Can you replace a mercury thermostat with a digital?
Sometimes you have to flip the switch on the back of the thermostats depending on which type of system you have. If you’re going from mercury to a modern age digital thermostat the process can be simple if you just watch what you’re doing to pay attention.
How long do mercury thermostats last?
Although a mercury filled thermostat may last 20 years, or more, the mechanical parts begin to wear out long before that, becoming less accurate and therefore less efficient over time.
What states are mercury thermostats illegal?
On January 1, 2006, the State of California banned the sale of new mercury-added thermostats. California’s Mercury Thermostat Collection Act of 2008, Assembly Bill 2347 (Ruskin), requires manufacturers to establish a collection and recycling program for out-of-service mercury-added thermostats, either individually or
When did they stop using mercury in thermostats?
manufacturers in the U.S. – General Electric, Honeywell, and White-Rodgers. These companies reported that they phased-out the manufacture and sale of mercury-added thermostats in October 2009. Since 2001, many states have passed legislation restricting the sale of mercury-added thermostats.
Do mercury thermometers go bad?
Do Thermometers Expire? Thermometers do not expire, but they do have to eventually be replaced. Digital thermometers will last about 3 to 5 years, while mercury thermometers will last indefinitely as long as they aren’t cracked or damaged.
Do old mercury thermostats go bad?
If you’re wondering whether your thermostat can go bad, rest assured that it won’t happen for a while. Thermostats don’t typically have a set lifespan for maintenance, repair, or replacement (unlike air conditioners that need a tune-up every year).
How do I reset my mercury thermostat?
The first step in resetting your AC thermostat is to turn it off at the AC unit. Find Your Circuit Breaker Box. Reset the Circuit Breaker for Your AC Unit. Wait 30 Seconds.
Is mercury poisoning permanent?
When detected early, mercury poisoning can be halted. Neurological effects from mercury toxicity are often permanent. If you suspect sudden mercury poisoning, call the Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222.
How much mercury is toxic?
Blood mercury levels above 100 ng/mL have been reported to be associated with clear signs of mercury poisoning in some individuals (e.g., poor muscle coordination, tingling and numbness in fingers and toes).
Can I replace my thermostat myself?
It is possible to save some money by installing or replacing your thermostat yourself, but you will need: Basic electrical knowledge. A general understanding of the type of equipment being used.
Where are mercury thermometers banned?
As a result, a number of states have banned or limited the sale of mercury thermometers, including California, Oregon, Rhode Island, Maine, Maryland, Indiana, Minnesota, and New Hampshire. Some local units of government across the country have issued bans as well, including Ann Arbor.
What to do if you broke a thermometer?
Place all materials used with the cleanup, including gloves, in a trash bag. Place all mercury beads and objects into the trash bag. Place the trash bag outside in a secured area and label it as directed by your local health or fire department.
