How to Dispose of Old Appliances

Thinking about replacing your old refrigerator, washer, or dryer? While shopping for new appliances is exciting, figuring out what to do with the old ones can be tricky. Whether you're dealing with a bulky fridge or an outdated dryer, it’s important to know the safest and most responsible way to dispose of old appliances.

Improper appliance disposal can lead to environmental harm and potential safety issues. Luckily, there are plenty of smart, responsible options, many of which are easier than you think.

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Why Should You Recycle Old Appliances?

Landfill Waste & Environmental Impact

Appliance waste continues to be a major contributor to landfill growth. According to the EPA, most small appliances, like toasters, coffee makers, and hair dryers, are still ending up in landfills instead of being properly recycled or repurposed.

In 2018 alone:

• 2.2 million tons of small appliances were generated
  

• Only 5.6% were recycled
  

• 18.5% were combusted for energy recovery
  

• 75.9% ended up in landfills

Major appliances showed a better recycling rate. Of the 5.3 million tons produced that year, about 3.1 million tons were recycled, but more than 2.1 million still went to landfills.

These numbers highlight why it's so important to dispose of old appliances responsibly. Recycling conserves materials like steel and copper and prevents harmful substances from seeping into the environment.

Can I Throw My Refrigerator in a Dumpster?

Short answer: No, you shouldn’t. Throwing a refrigerator, freezer, or any large appliance into a dumpster is not only unsafe, it’s often illegal. These appliances can contain refrigerants, oils, and foam insulation that release hazardous chemicals if not handled properly. Dumping them improperly puts the environment at risk and may result in fines depending on local regulations.

Instead, use one of the responsible disposal methods outlined below, like haul-away services or certified recycling centers, to ensure your appliance is removed safely and in compliance with environmental guidelines.

What to Do with Old Appliances

If you're wondering how to dispose of old appliances near me, here are your best options:

1. Retailer Haul-Away Services

The easiest way to get rid of an old appliance is through haul-away programs. If you purchase a new appliance from Silica, our delivery team will not only set up your new appliance, but they'll haul away your old one too. We ensure proper appliance disposal, including fridge disposal and old washer and dryer removal.

2. Recycling Centers

Transport your old appliance to a certified recycling center near you. If you're in Wisconsin, check with the Wisconsin DNR for guidelines on how to dispose of old refrigerators and other cooling appliances safely.

Note: Refrigerators and freezers may require a small fee due to refrigerant removal.

3. Curbside or Municipal Pickup

Your local waste management service may offer appliance pickup. Some cities provide this service at no cost or for a nominal fee. Call ahead to confirm whether they accept items like old washers and dryers, and whether they offer safe refrigerant removal.

4. Donate or Resell

If your appliance still works, consider donating it to a local charity or selling it. Many organizations will pick up working appliances. This keeps the unit out of the landfill and helps someone in need.

Do Appliances Contain Hazardous Materials?

Yes, and it’s one of the biggest reasons why proper disposal matters. Many household appliances, especially refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners, contain materials that can be harmful to both people and the environment if not handled correctly.

Older units are especially risky, as they may include ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in their refrigerants or foam insulation. Even newer models can contain oils or other components that require special handling.

Common hazardous materials found in appliances include:

• Refrigerants (like CFCs and HFCs) contribute to ozone depletion and climate change. In Wisconsin, it's also required by law (NR 488, Wis. Adm. Code) that refrigerants be properly recovered by DNR-registered facilities using approved equipment.
  

• Compressor oil, which can contaminate soil and water
  

• Foam insulation with chemicals that must be safely extracted
  

• Heavy metals (like mercury or lead) in some electronics and components

These substances should never end up in a landfill. Certified recycling centers and retailer programs like Silica’s haul-away service ensure your old appliances are safely dismantled, and any hazardous materials are handled according to EPA guidelines.

Trust Silica for Safe Appliance Disposal

When it’s time to replace an old appliance, don’t let disposal be a hassle. At Silica For Your Home, we make it easy to upgrade responsibly. From haul-away services to expert delivery teams, we’re here to help you get rid of old appliances the right way, safely, locally, and in line with Wisconsin DNR regulations.

And because giving back is part of who we are, Silica proudly supports local schools, churches, and charitable organizations. We’ve been committed to our community since 1922 and believe helping others is both our responsibility and our honor. Submit a Donation Request if you're part of a local organization in need.

Feel free to contact us or visit one of our convenient Silica store locations in Fond du Lac, Beaver Dam, and Watertown, Wisconsin, to shop for new appliances and take advantage of our appliance removal services. Our knowledgeable team is always happy to guide you through the process.

Related Readings:

• Spring Appliance Cleaning Checklist

• How Do I Clean the Inside of My Refrigerator?

• How to Clean a Mattress

FAQ: Common Questions About Appliance Disposal

1. How can I dispose of my refrigerated appliance in an environmentally responsible way?
Take it to a certified recycling center that handles refrigerants or schedule pickup through a retailer like Silica that offers proper haul-away services.

2. How much does it cost to dispose of my old appliance?
Costs vary. Store haul-away services may be free with purchase, while recycling centers might charge $10–$50, especially for refrigerated units.

3. Do appliances have hazardous materials?
Yes. Refrigerants, oils, and insulation can pose environmental risks if handled incorrectly. Always choose certified disposal methods.

4. What typically happens to my old refrigerator once I get rid of it?
It's dismantled by professionals. Hazardous materials are safely removed, and recyclable materials like steel and copper are processed for reuse.

5. How to get rid of an old refrigerator responsibly?
Avoid putting it on the curb or in a dumpster. Contact a retailer like Silica or a certified recycling facility to handle the fridge disposal safely.