Best ways to dispose of water heater (best → last resort)
Retail take-backBuying a replacement
When a plumber or retailer (Home Depot, Lowe’s) installs your new water heater, they will almost always haul the old one away — often included in the install.
Drop-offBest for recycling
A water heater is mostly steel, so a scrap-metal yard will take it — and many pay by weight. Search “scrap metal recycling near me.” Drain it fully first.
Special/bulk pickupEverywhere
Your trash hauler’s bulky-item pickup will collect it — schedule a pickup rather than setting it at the curb.
How to prepare it
Turn off the gas or power and the water supply, then drain the tank completely before moving it.
Cap or tape the gas line if it is a gas unit.
Don't
Do not put a water heater in the curbside trash or recycling cart — it is far too large.
Do not leave it at the curb without a scheduled pickup — illegal-dumping fines apply.
Find a drop-off near you
Acceptance varies by city — always check your local program first.
Retail take-back (buying a replacement): When a plumber or retailer (Home Depot, Lowe’s) installs your new water heater, they will almost always haul the old one away — often included in the install.
Can you put a water heater in the trash?
Not usually — use a drop-off or take-back program instead of the trash.
Where can I recycle a water heater near me?
Search a drop-off with the Earth911 locator or "scrap metal recycling near me." Acceptance varies by city, so confirm with your local program.