When it’s time to say goodbye to an old appliance, it’s important to make a disposal plan—especially if you’re bringing in a new one to replace it. Due to their size and, in some cases, their makeup, you can’t just put a major home appliance on the curb with the rest of your trash. So, how do you dispose of an appliance you no longer need?

Research Local Appliance Recycling and Disposal

Appliance recycling and disposal avenues vary from location to location, so your first step is to find out what the options are where you live. Your municipal waste management division is a good place to start. They may offer disposal or recycling services, or they may be able to connect you with organizations that do.

If you need other disposal options, you may be able to get help from:

• Utility companies
• Appliance manufacturers
• Junk hauling services
• Appliance repair professionals

The most important thing is: don’t just dump your appliances or take them to a landfill. This can be environmentally hazardous and could result in steep fines. 

Work With Your Appliance Seller

If you’re replacing an old appliance with a new one, the company that sold the new appliance may be able to take the old one off your hands. This is a common practice, so don’t be shy about inquiring!

The company might even take multiple appliances away, even if they aren’t replacing all of them. This varies from company to company, but it never hurts to ask.

Donate to Charity

If your appliance is still in good working condition, donating it to charity is a wonderful way to give it a second life. This keeps it out of the landfill and helps people in need all in one fell swoop.

Many charities will pick up large donations. You can check their website or give them a call to see what their policy is.

Responsible Appliance Removal

When you’re getting rid of an appliance, you may need to do some safety-oriented preparation before it’s taken away. If you’re working with an organization or company, make sure you check with them regarding any pre-transport actions. 

If you’re getting rid of an appliance that contains chemicals, you may need to drain those before the appliance is removed. Most commonly, this will pertain to refrigerators or freezers that contain Freon. If you’re responsible for the Freon removal, you’ll need to contact an EPA-certified technician to do the work since this coolant has to be handled and disposed of according to strict regulations.

Other preparations might include:

• Unplugging and defrosting fridges or freezers
• Securing any doors or lids
• Securing or removing any loose or moving parts  

Most people will have to deal with appliance disposal or recycling at some point in their lives. If you need help with appliance disposal in Rockaway, Chatham, or the greater Morris County area, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair today. We’ll be happy to share our knowledge with you and help in any way we can. Morris County Appliance Repair is here for all of your appliance repair and support needs—You Can Count On Us!