How to Recycle Metal from Household Appliances

• Start by Identifying Recyclable Appliances

Not every appliance contains the same type or amount of metal, but many are excellent candidates for recycling. Common large appliances like refrigerators, ovens, washing machines, and dryers are primarily made from steel and often contain copper wiring or aluminum components. Smaller appliances like microwaves, blenders, and toasters also contain a surprising amount of recyclable metal in their motors, cords, and casings.

Some examples of recyclable household appliances include:

• Refrigerators and freezers
• Washing machines and dryers
• Dishwashers
• Microwaves
• Air conditioners
• Stoves and ovens
• Toasters, blenders, coffee makers, and other small electronics
• Prep the Appliance for Recycling

Before you recycle an appliance, it’s important to prepare it properly. Unplug the unit and make sure it’s completely disconnected from any power, gas, or water lines. If possible, remove detachable parts like plastic shelves, glass doors, or rubber gaskets. These non-metal components may need to be disposed of separately or recycled through other programs.

For appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners, which contain refrigerants or other hazardous chemicals, they have to be handled with care. These substances must be safely removed by a technician before recycling the unit. Many scrap yards or municipal scrap metal recycling programs can help with this step.

• Sort and Separate Metals

If you’re comfortable disassembling the appliance, you can separate the different types of metals for a higher payout. For example, removing the copper wiring, aluminum parts, or motors can increase the value of your scrap. Copper is more valuable and is found in wiring, motors, and compressors.

However, if disassembly isn’t something you want to do, many scrap metal buyers will accept whole appliances and sort the materials themselves. Just keep in mind that sorted and cleaned metals fetch a better price than mixed or contaminated materials.

• Find a Local Scrap Metal Recycler

Once your appliance is ready, find a reputable scrap metal company. A quick search for local scrap yards or recycling centers can point you in the right direction. Some facilities even offer pickup services for larger appliances, making the process even more convenient.

Be sure to ask about their current pricing for different types of metal, as scrap metal prices can fluctuate based on market conditions. At Just Scrap It, we’re happy to help you understand what your materials are worth and ensure they’re recycled responsibly.

Why Recycle Appliances Instead of Tossing Them?

When you recycle metal, you help reduce the demand for raw material mining, conserve energy, and cut down on pollution. Scrap metal recycling also keeps hazardous materials out of landfills and gives your old appliances a second life in new products. Moreover, there’s often a financial incentive. Scrap metal buyers pay for the weight and type of metal, so you can earn a little extra cash while doing the right thing for the environment.

Trusted Scrap Metal Buyers

If you’re looking for a top-paying scrap metal buyer, look no further than Just Scrap It. We are a trusted company that’s committed to turning unwanted materials into something valuable. Our company is founded on the principles of sustainability, safety, professionalism, and innovation.