How to Safely Dispose of Your Old Appliances

If it’s time to buy a new appliance, then it’s probably time to get rid of an old appliance. Properly disposing of old appliances and electronics we no longer use is important so that we can prevent hazardous chemicals and contaminants from being exposed into the environment.

                Home appliances that are still in good working condition can be donated to local charities or repair training schools. For appliances that aren’t in great working condition, some utility companies may offer you cash for the materials of your unit. If you don’t have any luck with that, you can try to see what you can get for them from a scrap metal recycler in your area.  

                Depending on your state, and if e-waste recycling is in effect, you could be fined for improperly disposing of your appliances and electronics. Garbage companies will not pick up old appliances you leave outside at your curb. Local municipal drop offs have various locations across the country, and will take your old appliances from you to be recycled. 

                Old appliances and electronics left indefinitely in landfills run the risk of the harmful exposure of ODS, GHGs, oils, and mercury into the environment. For more information on safely disposing of old appliances and to find a municipal drop off location near you, http://http://www.epa.gov/rad