How to dispose of large appliances
Best ways to dispose of large appliances (best → last resort)
Retail take-backEasiest
Stores usually haul the old appliance away when delivering a new one (sometimes free).
Drop-offScrap metal
Scrap-metal recyclers take steel appliances — some pay by weight.
Special/bulk pickupVia your hauler
Schedule a bulky-item pickup with your trash company.
How to prepare it
- Disconnect and drain water lines (washers, dishwashers, water heaters).
- Note: fridges, freezers, and AC units need refrigerant recovery — see those guides.
Don't
- Never leave appliances at the curb without a scheduled pickup.
- Never scrap a fridge/AC without refrigerant recovery.
Find a drop-off near you
Acceptance varies by city — always check your local program first.
Recycling rules for your city → · Item recycling guides →
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Large appliances disposal — FAQ
- What's the best way to dispose of large appliances?
- Retail take-back (easiest): Stores usually haul the old appliance away when delivering a new one (sometimes free).
- Can you put large appliances in the trash?
- Not usually — use a drop-off or take-back program instead of the trash.
- Where can I recycle large appliances near me?
- Search a drop-off with the Earth911 locator or "appliance recycling near me near me." Acceptance varies by city, so confirm with your local program.
Related
How to dispose of a microwaveHow to dispose of a refrigerator or freezerHow to dispose of an air conditionerHow to dispose of a dehumidifierHow to dispose of a water heater