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Writer's pictureMetro Recycling

RECYCLING LARGE APPLIANCES: REFRIGERATOR, STOVE, WASHING MACHINE AND MORE

Updated: Oct 23, 2019

Posted on October 09, 2018


Recycling Large Appliances

Are you ready to discard an old appliance, such as a refrigerator, freezer, stove, or washing machine? Try recycling. You can avoid adding to landfills, reduce damaging emissions, and help protect the environment. Because large appliances contain a lot of steel, you can also get paid for recycling them.

Tips for recycling your appliance

Before you head to the recycling center, here are some tips:

  1. Check the hours for the closest Metro Recycling location: Blue Island, Illinois; Griffith, Indiana; or Valparaiso, Indiana.

  2. Stay clear of refrigerants. Freon and other refrigerants used in air-conditioning units, refrigerators, and freezers can be toxic and hazardous to the environment, too. Metro Recycling has technicians who are 608-certified, meaning they are certified by the EPA to handle refrigerants properly.

  3. Lift smart. Refrigerators and other large appliances are heavy, bulky, and usually require a two-person lift. Use your legs when you lift to avoid an injury on your back. Also, use an appliance dolly to move the appliance, and make sure you have a vehicle big enough to transport the appliance.

3 reasons for recycling appliances

  1. Cut the trash. Most large appliances are made from steel—about 75%. Recycling is better than leaving an old appliance rusting in a landfill, right?

  2. Protect the environment. Freon is a leading contributor to our ozone depletion. Recycling your old appliance helps keep freon out of landfills.

  3. Earn money back. Steel is valuable, so recycling is an easy way to get paid for your old appliance.

What appliances can you recycle?

  • Recycling is a great option for your:

  • Refrigerator or freezer

  • Air conditioning unit

  • Washing machine or dryer

  • Oven or stove

  • Microwave

  • Stainless, industrial kitchen equipment

  • Water heater


Replacing your refrigerator or freezer

Save your money for your heating bill! One of the best ways to save energy in your home is by replacing your old appliances with energy-efficient models. The EPA says replacing an old refrigerator or freezer could save you up to $50 a year in energy costs. To find out if your investment in a new appliance can pay for itself, try the Energy Star Flip Your Fridge Calculator. Check with your local utility company to see if they offer rebates for replacing an old appliance, too.


And remember, take your old refrigerator, freezer, or other appliance to Metro Recycling, where we pay you to recycle! Learn more about what to recycle.

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