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Guide for Appliance Recyclers June 2004 <br /> • Step 3: Remove the mercury thermocouple assembly by, first removing the bottom <br /> of the heater and loosening the nut that is holding the probe in place near the gas <br /> burner. <br /> Source:Vermont Agency of Natural Resources,Envimnmentat Assistance Division <br /> (www.an r.state.W.usrdedead/mercury/a ppman.po <br /> Step 4: Manage the mercury thermocouple assembly according to the guidelines <br /> described in the section of this guide titled, "HANDLING AND RECYCLING MERCURY <br /> SWITCHES." <br /> Other Appliances <br /> Residential and commercial appliances should be examined closely to identify whether <br /> they contain a mercury switch. Such appliances as clothes dryers, microwave ovens, <br /> • refrigerators, air conditioners, and furnaces may contain tilt or thermoelectric switches: <br /> The guidance supplied in this guide may be applicable to these other appliances, but it <br /> is recommended that you contact the product manufacturer for product-specific <br /> guidance. <br /> HANDLING AND RECYCLING MERCURY SWITCHES <br /> Do I need to keep records of the mercury switches 1 remove from appliances? <br /> Yes, you are required to keep records of the mercury switches removed from <br /> appliances for three years. A sample form for keeping track of switches is provided in <br /> Appendix B. The way you handle the switches and the records you keep will determine <br /> how you may manage them. Although the mercury switches that are removed from <br /> appliances are considered hazardous waste, they may be managed as universal waste. <br /> Waste management will be discussed further below. <br /> How should removed mercury switches be stored prior to recycling? <br /> There are several things to keep in mind when collecting and storing mercury switches <br /> for eventual recycling. <br /> • Place removed switches in a leak-proof container that is in good condition. Use <br /> a heavy plastic pail or container that has a tight-fitting lid. <br /> • Do not use tin or aluminum containers; mercury can react with these metals and <br /> is <br /> can also leak through the seams of the containers. <br /> 24 <br />