5 Ways To Recycle Appliances Responsibly

Eventually, every appliance reaches the end of its life, and when this happens, you need to dispose of and replace it. Figuring out what to do with these at-home devices, like washing machines and refrigerators, isn’t always easy. These items shouldn’t go into the regular trash. They’ll waste space in a landfill, and many include metals or plastics that take decades to break down. Learn about several ways to recycle appliances responsibly.

Donate to Charity

If the appliance still works, but you no longer want it or want to upgrade, donating it is the best way to dispose of it. The item still works fine, so it isn’t trash. Appliances are expensive, even smaller ones such as microwaves, but we all deserve access. Search for charities in your area that accept used appliances so you can bring them to their drop-off center or schedule a pickup.

Sell Them Used

Another simple way to recycle appliances responsibly is by holding a garage sale or selling them online. As explained in the previous option, the object doesn’t belong in the trash if it still works. Throwing it away wastes materials and takes up space in a landfill. Chances are, you’ll find a buyer searching for a “new” appliance at a discounted rate—don’t charge the price you originally paid.

Contact a Recycling Company

When a home appliance no longer works, you can’t sell or donate it as it won’t serve the next owner. Instead, contact your local or appliance-specific recycling company and schedule a pickup. Sometimes, this comes with a small fee, though your public trash company may do it for free. The price depends on your local government’s laws.

Consider Local Drop-Off Programs

Many stores that sell appliances also offer drop-off programs. This allows you to bring in an old or broken device so they can bring it to the appropriate recycling center. Many appliance manufacturers, like GE Appliance, have similar programs. The manufacturer often covers the shipping cost so that you can send the item to them, and they’ll handle the recycling process.

Scrap The Parts

The appliance itself may be useless, but some of the parts could serve a purpose to industry professionals. If you don’t know how to take an appliance apart, don’t attempt this yourself. Instead, search for companies that offer buy-back programs for scrap. These types of businesses will offer a fair price for the material, and then they recycle what they can’t reuse.

An Alternative Option: Get It Repaired

Sometimes, our appliances break down before we’re ready to replace them. When this occurs, you’re better off repairing the item so you can continue using it. Appliance Recovery is an appliance repair company with the experts you need.

We offer top-quality service and work on many major brands, including Samsung, LG, KitchenAid, and GE. Our experts can repair various types of major appliances, including refrigerators, washers and dryers, dishwashers, microwaves, ovens, and cooktops. Schedule your appliance repair so you can continue using yours.