Are there any non-toxic replacements that can perform the same functions of mercury switches and other products containing mercury?
In some cases, yes. Several types of thermostats are now on the market that regulate temperature electronically rather than with a mercury switch (they have a digital display). Most new automatic irons have replaced the traditional mercury tilt switch with a switch that performs the same function without mercury. It is a switch that contains a tiny metal ball. The movement, or “tilt,” of this ball indicates whether the iron has fallen over. Note: In many cases like the iron, mercury switches can be replaced more easily than in other cases. Some products simply cannot make use of a replacement switch because it cannot simulate certain properties of mercury. Some switches are required to perform more complex functions where only mercury can provide the solution.
