How to Get Rid of Old Appliances
If you're like most people, you probably have at least one old appliance taking up space in your home – and you might not know how to get rid of it. We're here to help.
In this article, we'll discuss how to get rid of old appliances and the benefits and risks of each method. We'll also provide tips to choose the best method for your needs. Read on to learn more about getting rid of old appliances safely.
What to Know About Getting Rid of Old Appliances
Before searching for how to get rid of your old appliance, understand that there are proper and improper ways to do it and what could happen if you don't dispose of it properly. You can't just throw it in the garbage – there are better ways to take care of appliance removal.
Don't Take Appliances Apart
Don't take apart any appliances before removing them – doing so can cause hazardous materials such as refrigerants, mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (BCPs), and oils to spill into the environment. It could also release ozone-depleting substances or cause excess greenhouse gas emissions.
Benefits of Recycling
Figuring out how to get rid of old appliances by recycling them can be a great way to give them (or at least their materials) new life. Recycling appliances can reduce the need for new material production, lowering energy requirements and reducing emissions.
Risks of Poor Disposal of Appliances
If an old appliance isn't disposed of properly – such as leaving it on the curb or throwing it in any nearby dumpster – it can have negative consequences. Not only is it bad for the environment, but it can also be illegal in some locations or cases.
How to Get Rid of Old Appliances: 8 Ways
Now that you know the basics of how to get rid of old appliances, let's look at the different ways you can get rid of an old appliance.
1. Re-Selling
If they're still in good condition and working properly, you may be able to get rid of your old appliances by reselling them using a platform like Facebook Marketplace or Offer Up. Re-selling is a great way to make some extra cash and can be less expensive than other methods. If you don't get any offers, try offering the appliance for free.
2. Donating
Another option for the disposal of appliances (if the appliance is still in working condition) is donating it or giving it away. You could contact your local Goodwill or Salvation Army to learn about local donation options. Many people would use your old appliance, and it feels good knowing it's going to a good place.
3. Recycling
In most cases, recycling or reusing your old appliances is best. If you don't have any luck reselling or donating and are still looking for the disposal of appliances, you can usually find a recycling center in your area that provides old appliance pick up services and that can take it off your hands for free.
Utility Company Recycling
Many utility companies offer programs that allow you to recycle old appliances. Some even provide free appliance recycling services through government programs that include free pick-up. Check with your local utility company to learn about your options for appliance removal.
EPA RAD Program
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program helps consumers find responsible ways to get rid of old appliances safely and responsibly.
The RAD program promotes the recycling and safe disposal of appliances and the hazardous materials found in some appliances. The large appliance disposal program partners help accomplish many environmental milestones nationwide through the proper recycling of appliances.
In 2020, RAD partners were able to recycle 43 million pounds of durable material, and throughout its 15-year tenure, that impact was maximized to 1,508 million pounds of durable material recycled. Utilizing this program to figure out how to get rid of your old appliances through recycling helps the program accomplish more of these feats.
4. Waste Disposal Service
You may be able to have an appliance removed from your home by waste or large appliance disposal services such as your local city trash collector, waste disposal center, or landfill. Call them to ask about pick-up removal options that may be available to you.
5. Bundle Removal With New Appliance Installation
When getting a new appliance installed in your home, you can sometimes bundle the removal of the old appliance with the installation.
Many appliance retailers, installation companies, and delivery services offer this service so you don't have to worry about how to get rid of your old one. While removal on its own can cost money, you can often get it removed for free if you're purchasing a new appliance from the company.
6. Self-Removal to Disposal Center
If you have a large vehicle you can get rid of your old appliance by transporting it yourself. Take it directly to a recycling center or waste management facility rather than relying on them for old appliance pick up. Depending on the size and weight of your appliance, you may want to bring a few people with you to help lift and carry it out.
7. Rent a Dumpster
If you can't move the appliance yourself, you can rent a dumpster from a local waste removal company. Dumpster rental can be the most convenient option if you have multiple items to get rid of and need quick old appliance removal, or if you live outside of municipal waste removal areas.
8. Sell Parts
If you're tech-savvy or know someone who is, you may be able to sell certain parts from the old appliance for scrap. This can be a great way to make some extra money while also helping another person in need of a part at the same time.
Saying Goodbye to Old Appliances
Getting rid of old appliances can be a hassle, but with the right knowledge and resources, you can find responsible ways to go about large appliance disposal. Whether you decide to sell, donate, recycle or self-remove your old appliance, you'll have peace of mind knowing it's been properly disposed of.
Contact WIN Waste Innovations today to find the best way to get rid of your waste.