How to Properly Dispose of Old & Broken Appliances?

When household appliances reach the end of their useful life, figuring out how to dispose of old broken appliances can be challenging. Improper disposal of appliances can lead to serious environmental problems. 

Many contain harmful substances like refrigerants, oils, mercury switches, and other components that can contaminate soil and water if they end up in landfills. Worldwide, the annual generation of e-waste is rising by 2.6 million tonnes annually, on track to reach 82 million tonnes by 2030, making responsible disposal increasingly important.

Communities across the country have developed specialized programs to manage appliance disposal. Knowing what to do with old broken appliances can turn a potential problem into a positive outcome. Many methods even offer financial benefits or convenience that make the process easier than you might expect. 

6 Ways to Properly Dispose of Old & Broken Appliances

When it’s time to get rid of that non-functioning refrigerator or outdated washing machine, you have several responsible options. Each method has its own benefits and considerations, so you can choose the approach that best fits your situation.

• Contact Your Local Waste Management Department

Many municipalities offer bulky item pickup services specifically designed for large household items like appliances. These services typically operate in one of these ways:

• Scheduled pickup days: Some communities designate specific days each month for collecting large items
• On-demand collection: You can request a special pickup by calling your waste management department
• Annual cleanup events: Many towns hold yearly community-wide collection days

Before arranging pickup, it’s important to check if any preparation is required. Some guidelines to be aware of:

• Refrigerators and freezers may need to have doors removed for safety
• Certain appliances might require draining of fluids or removal of specific components
• There may be limits on how many items can be collected at once

Many local waste services include appliance pickup in your regular sanitation fees, but some charge an additional fee ranging from $10 to $50 per item. This is still typically more affordable than private hauling services.

To find out what to do with old, broken appliances in your area, check your local government website or call your waste management department directly. They can provide specific information about collection schedules, preparation requirements, and any associated fees.

• Utilize Manufacturer or Retailer Take-Back Programs

Many appliance manufacturers and retailers have developed programs to take back old appliances, particularly when you’re purchasing a replacement.

These take-back programs typically work in one of these ways:

• Haul-away service: When a new appliance is delivered, the delivery team removes the old one
• Drop-off options: Some retailers accept old appliances at their locations or designated collection points
• Mail-back programs: For smaller appliances, some manufacturers provide shipping labels for return

Major retailers with established take-back programs include:

• Best Buy: Offers haul-away services with new purchases and standalone pickup options
• Home Depot: Provides removal of old appliances with delivery of new ones
• Lowe’s: Includes haul-away service with installation of many appliance types
• Sears: Offers removal of old appliances with delivery of replacements

Manufacturer programs vary widely, but companies like Whirlpool, GE, Samsung, and LG often partner with retailers to facilitate the recycling of their products. Some even offer discounts on new purchases when you recycle old models.

For anyone wondering where to take old, broken appliances, these take-back programs offer a convenient solution that ensures responsible recycling while eliminating the hassle of transport.

• Find a Certified Appliance Recycling Center

Specialized appliance recycling centers offer comprehensive processing that recovers valuable materials and safely handles hazardous components. These facilities are specifically equipped to properly remove and contain refrigerants, oils, and other harmful substances. Additionally, they can recycle up to 90% of an appliance’s components and process items in compliance with environmental regulations.

The Home Appliance Recycling Market size was valued at approximately USD 0.35 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 0.72 billion by 2032, showing growing recognition of both environmental necessity and economic opportunity in proper appliance disposal.

To locate a certified recycling center near you:

• Search the Earth911 directory (earth911.com)
• Check the EPA’s Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program partners
• Contact your state’s environmental protection department
• Use the Steel Recycling Institute’s appliance recycling locator

When using a recycling center, you’ll typically need to:

• Transport the appliance to the facility yourself (some offer pickup for an additional fee)
• Provide identification (some states track appliance disposal)
• Potentially pay a small processing fee for certain appliance types

Many centers will pay you for the recyclable metals in your appliances, particularly for items with significant amounts of copper, aluminum, or steel. Payments vary widely based on current scrap metal prices and the type of appliance.

• Sell or Donate Working or Repairable Appliances

Even appliances that no longer meet your needs may have value to others, making selling or donation a win-win option.

If your appliance still works or needs only minor repairs, consider these options:

• Online marketplaces: Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp are excellent for local sales
• Garage/yard sales: Perfect for selling multiple items at once
• Repair and resale shops: Some businesses purchase broken appliances to refurbish
• Scrap metal buyers: Even non-working appliances contain valuable metals

For donations, several organizations regularly accept appliances in good condition. Habitat for Humanity ReStores, The Salvation Army, and Goodwill (though policies vary by location) are common options. Local shelters, housing assistance programs, and vocational schools that teach appliance repair may also welcome your donations.

When preparing to sell old broken appliances, keep these tips in mind:

• Be honest about the appliance’s condition and any issues
• Clean the item thoroughly before listing or donating
• Take clear photos showing the appliance from multiple angles
• Include measurements and model information in listings
• Offer delivery for an additional fee to increase interest

Donations can provide tax benefits. Request a receipt with the estimated value of your donation for tax purposes. Most organizations will provide documentation if asked.

• Hire a Junk Removal Service

For those prioritizing convenience, professional junk removal services offer a hassle-free solution for disposing of appliances. These services handle the entire process:

• Pickup from anywhere on your property (no need to move items to the curb)
• Transportation to the appropriate facility
• Proper disposal or recycling according to regulations
• Optional additional services, like cleaning the area after removal

The cost typically ranges from $60 to $130 per appliance, though many companies charge based on volume rather than by item. Factors affecting the price include:

• Size and weight of the appliance
• Difficulty of access (stairs, narrow doorways, etc.)
• Distance to disposal facilities
• Current disposal fees in your area

If you’re uncertain what to do with old broken appliances and prefer a hands-off approach, junk removal services provide maximum convenience, though at a higher cost than some other options. Most reputable services prioritize recycling and donation over landfill disposal when possible.

• Repurpose or Upcycle Appliance Parts

For the creative and environmentally conscious, repurposing offers a unique alternative to traditional disposal methods.

Many appliance components can find new life through creative reuse:

• Refrigerators: Door panels can become magnetic bulletin boards or small tables
• Washing machine drums: Make excellent fire pits, outdoor planters, or light fixtures
• Microwave turntables: Repurpose as serving platters or garden stepping stones
• Oven racks: Can be converted into grilling racks or garden trellises

Before dismantling an appliance for repurposing, safety is paramount. Always ensure the appliance is completely unplugged and disconnected from all power sources. Properly drain any fluids and carefully remove any components that could be potentially harmful. It’s also wise to research specific safety concerns related to your particular appliance model and always use high-quality equipment.

Online resources for appliance repurposing ideas include:

• Pinterest boards dedicated to appliance upcycling
• YouTube tutorials for specific repurposing projects
• Upcycling and DIY blogs with step-by-step guides
• Local makerspace communities where you can get hands-on help

While repurposing requires more effort than other disposal methods, it offers unmatched environmental benefits by extending the useful life of materials and reducing waste. It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy DIY projects or want to create unique, functional items for their homes.

Bottom Line 

Different appliances need different disposal approaches. A working but outdated refrigerator might be perfect for donation, while a beyond-repair washing machine might be best handled by a recycling center. The extra effort to properly handle old, broken appliances helps reduce landfill waste and supports the recovery of useful materials. 

At CLT Appliance Repair, our certified technicians take pride in honest assessments that often result in affordable fixes for appliances others would condemn. When your refrigerator starts making that strange noise or your dryer stops heating, our diagnostic expertise goes beyond the obvious to find cost-effective solutions. 

For those times when repair truly isn’t viable, we offer responsible disposal guidance and can even handle the removal process for you, ensuring your old appliance doesn’t end up where it shouldn’t. 

Contact us today for a free consultation! 

FAQs

How to dispose of old broken appliances?

Disposing of old, broken appliances depends on your priorities. For convenience, use municipal pickup, retailer take-back programs, or junk removal services. For environmental responsibility, certified recycling centers are best. For working or repairable items, consider donation or selling. Always ensure hazardous components like refrigerants are properly handled.

What to do with old broken appliances?

When deciding what to do with old and broken appliances, consider their condition. Beyond-repair items should go to recycling centers or municipal collection. Working or minor-repair items can be donated to organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Creative types can repurpose parts into household items or garden features.

How can I sell old or broken appliances for cash?

You can sell old broken appliances to scrap metal dealers who pay $10-$50 for the valuable metals inside. Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace work well for appliances needing minor repairs. Some repair shops also purchase broken appliances for parts or refurbishment.

Can appliances be thrown in regular trash or dumpsters?

No, most appliances cannot be disposed of in regular trash or dumpsters. Large appliances are prohibited from standard waste collection due to their potentially hazardous components. Even smaller appliances often contain materials that require special handling. Always check with local waste management authorities for proper disposal methods.