- 1Disconnect from electrical supply (contact electrician if hardwired)
- 2Remove rechargeable batteries separately
- 3Document battery type and chemistry
- 4Test lights to verify they're no longer functional
- 5Keep mounting hardware separate
- 6Check local fire codes before removal
- Commercial electrical contractors
- Battery recycling centers
- E-waste facilities
- Fire safety equipment dealers
Must separate batteries from fixtures for proper recycling. Batteries require hazardous waste handling. Some units may be refurbishable.
Recovers nickel-cadmium or lithium batteries, aluminum housings, and LED components. Prevents toxic battery chemicals from entering landfills.
Accepted
- LED emergency lights
- Fluorescent emergency lights
- Exit sign fixtures
- Combination emergency/exit units
- Emergency battery packs
- Emergency light heads
Not Accepted
- Units required by active fire codes
- Hardwired units (require electrician removal)
- Units with unknown battery chemistry
Estimated value: $5-15 per unit in battery and component recovery
- Nickel-cadmium batteries
- Lithium batteries
- Electronic circuits
Can I remove emergency lighting myself?
Only if it's plug-in. Hardwired units must be removed by licensed electricians and may be required by building codes.
What types of batteries are in emergency lights?
Most contain nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, though newer units may have lithium. Both require specialized recycling.
Are old emergency lights worth upgrading?
Yes, modern LED emergency lights use 75% less energy and last 10+ years vs 2-3 years for older fluorescent units.