How to recycle appliances: donation & disposal options

Which appliances can you recycle?

Most appliances can be recycled, including large appliances like refrigerators, freezers, washers, dryers, dishwashers and stoves. You can also recycle small appliances like disposals, microwaves, blenders, toasters and more.

5 ways to recycle old appliances

Appliance removal, disposal and recycling options may vary depending on where you live. If you’re not sure how to recycle appliances, a little bit of online research—or a quick call to your local waste management service—can help you find out what’s available near you. In some cases, large metal appliances can also be taken to a scrap metal recycling facility. Most people should have access to at least one of the following options for appliance disposal or recycling:

1. Recycling services from appliance retailers and manufacturers

Many retailers offer haul-away services for major appliances as part of a new appliance purchase, either for free or for a fee. If you’re purchasing new appliances to replace your old ones, inquire about appliance recycling services. Not only will such services save you time, but they’ll also help ensure that your old appliances are properly disposed of. When you buy an appliance direct from Whirlpool brand, for example, you may be able to request both uninstall and haul away options when making your purchase, so it’s all taken care of.

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2. Donate appliances to charities

While your old appliance may no longer be the right fit for your family, it can make all the difference to someone in your community. If you’re replacing working appliances due to moving or remodeling, consider donating your old appliances to charity. Local nonprofit organizations may be able to resell gently used appliances to raise money or give them directly to people in need.

3. Appliance recycling services from utility providers

Saving energy by replacing old appliances with new, energy-efficient models can be good for your budget, as well as your community. Energy-efficient appliances may use less energy over their lifetime and fewer resources from your local power plant, both of which are good for the environment.

Many utility companies offer appliance removal and disposal programs to encourage customers to switch to energy-efficient options. Contact your utility provider to see if they participate in appliance recycling, or see if your local power company is part of the EPA’s Responsible Appliance Disposal Partners.

4. Local, regional or statewide appliance recycling services

Many cities may not let you dispose of an appliance via curbside trash pickup. However, many cities, counties and states offer appliance recycling programs to help you dispose of old appliances safely. Programs can vary, so be sure to ask about certain details like appliance removal and hauling, fees, drop-off points, and so on.

5. Appliance removal services

If your retailer, utility provider and local government don’t offer appliance recycling programs, an appliance removal service may be able to help. Sometimes called junk removal companies, these organizations specialize in appliance recycling or disposal and can help you get rid of your old appliance. Some scrap yards may also take appliances, but be sure to call ahead and confirm this before you drop off your old washer, refrigerator or other appliance.

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Why should you recycle old appliances?

Recycling old appliances isn’t just about clearing space in your home, but it’s also a meaningful way to help reduce your environmental impact. From cutting greenhouse gas emissions to conserving natural resources, proper disposal of appliances offers a range of benefits that go beyond convenience.

Reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions

Disposing of your old appliance the right way can help save space in landfills and help protect the environment from substances that contribute to climate change. Older refrigerators, freezers and other appliances can contain ozone-depleting refrigerants and insulating foam blowing agents that are also potent greenhouse gases (GHGs). If not properly disposed of, these substances can leak into the atmosphere. According to the EPA, responsible recycling helps prevent these types of emissions while also conserving space in landfills by recovering durable materials like metals, plastics and glass.

Ensure responsible handling of hazardous substances

Recycling some appliances, like refrigerators and freezers, can likely prevent the release of used oils into the environment. In addition to used oil, many older appliances may contain substances that pose risks to people and the environment. Without responsible recycling, these substances can be released during appliance dumping.

Save energy and conserve natural resources

Plus, your choice to recycle can help save energy by reducing the need for manufacturers to produce entirely new materials. When appliance components like metal, glass and plastic are recovered and reused, it helps reduce the demand for energy-intensive raw material production. This can help save energy and lower emissions tied to mining and manufacturing.

Tips for recycling large appliances

Properly recycling large kitchen appliances like refrigerators, ovens and dishwashers not only helps reduce landfill waste, but can also help conserve valuable materials. Here are some tips to help you prepare and recycle these items responsibly:

• Unplug and cool down the appliance. Disconnect your appliance several days before recycling to allow it to fully cool, especially if it contains refrigerants like Freon.
  

• Secure doors and prepare for transport. Tape doors shut with duct or masking tape to prevent them from swinging open. Use a dolly to help you transport the appliance.
  

• Check for Freon or other hazardous materials. Older refrigerators, freezers and AC units often contain Freon, which must be removed by a certified professional. Confirm whether your recycling provider handles this, or arrange removal before drop off.
  

• Ask about haul-away options with a new purchase. When having a new appliance delivered, ask if the retailer will also remove and recycle your old one. Some may accept more than one item per visit.
  

• Donate working appliances. Some charities or nonprofits accept working major appliances, though you’ll need to confirm if they have the capacity to transport or store them.
  

• Find a certified recycling center near you. Use an online recycling locator to identify local options for appliance recycling, including preparation tips and specific requirements.

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