Before you haul that old fridge to a refrigerator scrap yard, let’s talk. A few common mistakes can turn this simple task into a costly headache. Many people think it’s just a quick drop-off, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. You could face hefty fines for illegally handling refrigerants or lose cash at the scale by not separating your metals correctly. The pitfalls are real. This guide is your roadmap to avoiding those expensive errors. We’ll cover the essential steps for prepping your old fridge safely and legally, ensuring you get the best possible price without any surprises.
So, that old refrigerator is finally on its way out, and you’re wondering if you can turn it into a little extra cash at the scrap yard. The short answer is yes, but it’s not always as simple or profitable as you might think. Before you start wrestling that heavy appliance into the back of a truck, it’s smart to understand what actually gives it value and whether the effort is worth the potential payout.
For many homeowners, property managers, and real estate agents, the time and hassle of dismantling a fridge and hauling it to a scrap yard outweigh the small cash return. The process involves dealing with potentially hazardous materials and requires specific tools and knowledge. While you can make a few dollars, you have to decide if your time is better spent elsewhere—like getting a property ready for its next tenant or sale. For most, the convenience of having a professional service handle the heavy lifting and responsible disposal is the clear winner.
The real cash in your old fridge comes from the metals inside it, not the big, empty box itself. The main body is mostly insulation and thin steel, which doesn’t fetch a high price. The most valuable components are hidden inside. You can make more money by taking the fridge apart to get to valuable parts like the compressor, which is rich in copper, and the copper tubing that runs along the back. Separating these valuable scrap metals from the less valuable steel frame is where you’ll see a better return. If you just drop the whole unit off, the scrap yard will pay you a low, flat rate for mixed metal, which barely covers your gas and time.
Believe it or not, older refrigerators can sometimes be more valuable for scrapping. Vintage models from before the 2000s often contain more copper and heavier-gauge steel than their modern, energy-efficient counterparts. If you sell the entire unit without taking it apart, you can generally expect to get between $15 and $50, depending on its weight, condition, and the current market price for scrap metal in your area. A heavier, older fridge will likely be on the higher end of that range, while a newer, lighter model will be on the lower end. The condition matters less for scrap than for resale, but a completely rusted-out unit might fetch less.
One of the biggest myths is that a non-working refrigerator is worthless. That’s not true at all. Since the value is in the raw materials, it doesn’t matter if the appliance can keep your drinks cold. Even if it’s completely dead, you can still sell it to a scrap metal company for its parts. However, another misconception is that you’ll get a big payout for the whole unit. If you sell the fridge as-is for “shred” or “tin,” the price can be as low as $5 to $10. The key is understanding that its value is in its individual components, which is why proper appliance recycling focuses on separating materials safely and legally.
Tossing an old refrigerator isn’t like getting rid of a worn-out chair. These appliances are heavy, bulky, and filled with materials that require special handling. Simply leaving one on the curb or dumping it illegally can lead to serious fines and environmental damage. For property managers and real estate agents, improper disposal can also create liability issues and reflect poorly on your business. Understanding the right way to dispose of a fridge is about more than just following the rules—it’s about protecting your community, the environment, and your wallet. When you handle it correctly, you ensure hazardous materials are managed safely and valuable resources are recovered.
Old refrigerators and freezers contain chemicals that can be incredibly harmful if they escape into the atmosphere. The primary culprits are refrigerants, like Freon, and the blowing agents used in the foam insulation. For decades, these substances contained chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases known to deplete the ozone layer. Even newer models contain refrigerants that can contribute to climate change. When a fridge is crushed or left to rust in a landfill, these chemicals leak out. Proper disposal ensures these substances are captured and reclaimed by a certified professional, preventing lasting environmental damage.
Beyond the environmental risks, the materials inside a refrigerator are considered hazardous waste and are regulated by law. The compressor motor contains oil that can contaminate soil and water, while older models may even have mercury-containing switches. This is why you can’t just drop a fridge off at a scrap yard. Reputable recycling centers and scrap yards will require proof that the refrigerants have been professionally evacuated according to EPA regulations. Attempting to cut the lines yourself is not only illegal and dangerous but will also get you turned away, leaving you stuck with a useless—and still hazardous—appliance.
Once the hazardous materials are safely removed, a refrigerator is a treasure trove of recyclable materials. The steel frame, copper tubing, and aluminum parts can all be repurposed. Recycling these metals is far more efficient than creating them from scratch. For example, recycling steel uses about 74% less energy than producing it from raw iron ore. This process conserves natural resources, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and lessens the strain on landfills. By choosing to recycle, you’re not just getting rid of junk; you’re contributing to a system where old materials are given new life, which is a core part of our mission at Junk Smiths.
Not all refrigerators are created equal, especially when it comes to their value at the scrap yard. The brand name on the door can be a surprisingly good indicator of the quality—and quantity—of valuable metals hidden inside. While any fridge has some scrap potential, certain brands consistently deliver a better payout because they were built with more durable, metal-heavy components. If you’re looking to get the most cash for your old appliance, it pays to know which names to look for.
These household names didn’t just earn their reputation by chance; they built it with quality materials. Brands like Whirlpool, GE, and Frigidaire have historically been known for their durability and long lifespan. This sturdiness often comes from using heavier gauge steel, more copper in the coils and compressor, and fewer plastic parts. For a scrapper, that translates directly into more weight and more valuable metals. It’s the same reason these appliances often have a decent resale value even after they stop running. A fridge built to last two decades simply contains more of the good stuff than one designed to be replaced every few years.
You might assume newer is better, but in the world of scrap metal, vintage often wins. Refrigerators made before the early 2000s are frequently heavier and packed with more copper and steel. Manufacturers used fewer plastic components back then, making these older units denser and more profitable to break down. However, don’t count out modern fridges entirely. Some newer, high-end models contain valuable electronics and higher-quality aluminum that can fetch a good price. Ultimately, the goal is to identify which of your household appliances contain the most valuable scrap metal, and that can be a toss-up between an old workhorse and a modern machine.
Beyond the big three, material quality can differ quite a bit. While popular brands like Samsung and LG make great, feature-rich appliances, they often prioritize lightweight design and complex electronics over heavy-duty metal construction. This can mean more plastic and less scrap weight compared to their traditional American counterparts. Scrapyard regulars often find that the payout for some newer, lower-end models doesn’t quite measure up. As a general rule, a refrigerator that had a higher price tag when new is more likely to contain better-quality materials, which in turn makes it more valuable when its cooling days are over.
Let’s get straight to the point: money. While scrapping an old fridge won’t fund your next vacation, it can definitely put some extra cash in your pocket for an appliance you need to get rid of anyway. The final amount you walk away with depends on a few key factors, including how much work you’re willing to put in. Think of it as a trade-off between your time and the final payout. Understanding the variables will help you decide if the DIY route is worth it or if calling in a pro is the smarter move for your schedule and sanity.
If you plan on hauling the entire refrigerator to the scrap yard as-is, you can generally expect to make between $15 and $50. This is a common payout for a complete, unprepared unit. Why so low? The yard is pricing in the labor they’ll have to do to safely drain the refrigerant and break the appliance down themselves. It’s the quickest and easiest route for you, but it also gives you the lowest return. Consider this your baseline—the absolute minimum you should expect for your old appliance if you do none of the prep work.
To get more than that baseline payout, you have to be willing to get your hands dirty. The secret to a higher return lies in separating the high-value metals from the low-value ones before you go to the yard. The most valuable part of your old refrigerator is the compressor, which contains a heavy copper-wound motor. The copper tubing and wiring are also worth separating. In contrast, the large frame of the fridge is mostly low-grade steel and insulation, which fetches a much lower price. When you deliver the entire unit, a scrap yard will pay you a single, low rate for mixed metal or “shred,” barely covering your time and gas. By taking the time to separate the materials, you can sell each metal type individually at its higher, respective price point.
Your final payout isn’t set in stone. Several things can make that number swing up or down. The specific scrap yard you choose, local regulations, and the fridge’s overall weight and material composition all play a part. The biggest variable, however, is the market itself. Just like stocks, current metal prices change daily based on global supply and demand. A little research can go a long way here. A quick call to a few local yards can give you a sense of the going rate before you load up your truck and invest the effort.
This is where you have a choice to make: convenience or cash. Selling the fridge whole is straightforward—you drop it off and you’re done. But if you want to maximize your earnings, you’ll need to take it apart. The real value isn’t in the big, bulky frame, which is mostly worthless insulation and plastic. The money is in the components. By harvesting valuable parts like the heavy compressor and the copper tubing yourself, you can sell these metals separately for a much higher price. It takes time, tools, and a bit of grit, but it’s the best way to get the most cash for your scrap.
An old refrigerator might look like one big, bulky appliance, but it’s actually a treasure trove of different materials. If you’re thinking about scrapping it, knowing what’s valuable inside is key to getting the best possible price. The secret is to look beyond the steel shell and see the individual components that scrap yards pay top dollar for. From the heavy motor to the intricate wiring, each part has a different value based on the metals it contains.
The compressor is the heart of your refrigerator and, when it comes to scrap, it’s the most valuable part. Tucked away at the back, this heavy, black, tank-like component houses an electric motor made with tightly wound copper wiring. Copper is one of the most sought-after non-ferrous metals at any scrap yard, and the sheer amount packed into a compressor makes it a heavy hitter. To get the best price, you’ll need to drain the oil and remove the steel casing to isolate the copper motor. It’s a bit of work, but separating the valuable copper from the less valuable steel is how you maximize your payout.
The compressor isn’t the only source of valuable metal. Your refrigerator is threaded with copper and aluminum that adds significant weight and value. The power cord and all the internal wiring contain copper, which can be stripped from its plastic insulation for a higher price. You’ll also find coils—either in the back or underneath—that are typically made of aluminum or sometimes copper. These coils are part of the cooling system and are another key component to salvage. Carefully removing and separating these wires and coils from the rest of the appliance ensures you get paid for each metal at its proper rate.
The refrigerator’s body—the doors, sides, and frame—is made almost entirely of steel. While steel is a ferrous metal and fetches a lower price per pound than copper or aluminum, its weight makes it a crucial part of your scrap total. Don’t underestimate how much that heavy frame can add to your final payout. The entire steel casing is 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly material to scrap. You’ll also find other small steel and metal components like door hinges, screws, and brackets that can be collected and added to your steel pile.
While the metal components are where the money is, what about everything else? The plastic drawers, door shelves, and glass trays generally have little to no scrap value. However, that doesn’t mean they should go to the landfill. Many of these components can be recycled, contributing to the fact that over 90% of a refrigerator’s parts are recoverable. A professional junk removal service ensures these materials are sent to the right facilities. At Junk Smiths, we focus on responsible disposal, so even the non-valuable parts are handled in an eco-friendly way.
If the idea of dismantling a heavy appliance and dealing with refrigerants sounds like more trouble than it’s worth, you’re not alone. Scrapping a fridge isn’t the only way to clear out that space in your kitchen or garage. In fact, several other options are often easier, more beneficial, and better for the environment. From giving your old appliance a second life to having someone else do all the heavy lifting, these alternatives can save you time and a major headache. For many homeowners and property managers, exploring these paths is a much smarter move than trying to navigate the complexities of a scrap yard.
If your old refrigerator is still in good working condition, donating it is a fantastic option. Many local charities, shelters, and non-profits are thrilled to accept functional appliances to help families in need. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity ReStores often take used refrigerators and sell them at a low cost to fund their housing projects. Not only does this keep a bulky item out of the landfill, but it also directly benefits your community. Plus, you may even be able to get a tax-deductible receipt for your donation. It’s a feel-good solution that gives your old appliance a new purpose.
When you’re buying a new refrigerator, one of the most convenient disposal options is right in front of you. Most major appliance retailers offer haul-away services for your old unit when they deliver the new one. For a small fee, their delivery team will disconnect your old fridge and load it onto their truck, saving you the back-breaking work of moving it yourself. This is an incredibly simple solution because it happens all at once. The retailers typically have established partnerships to ensure the old appliances are recycled responsibly, so you can be confident it’s being handled correctly.
Did you know your local utility company might actually pay you to take your old, energy-guzzling refrigerator off your hands? Many providers run rebate programs as part of their energy conservation efforts. Since older fridges use significantly more electricity, utilities are incentivized to get them off the grid. They’ll often offer a cash rebate—sometimes around $50—and provide free pickup for your working appliance. You’ll need to check with your specific provider to see if they offer a recycling program, but it’s a true win-win: you get paid, the fridge is removed for free, and it gets recycled properly.
Your city or county’s waste management service is another official channel for disposing of large appliances. Most municipalities have a process for collecting bulk items like refrigerators, but you can’t just leave it on the curb with your regular trash. You’ll likely need to schedule a special pickup in advance, and there may be a fee involved. It’s crucial to check your local government’s website or call them directly to understand their specific rules, including whether the refrigerant needs to be removed beforehand. This ensures you’re following local ordinances and disposing of the appliance legally and safely.
Getting an old refrigerator ready for the scrap yard isn’t as simple as just hauling it to the curb. To do it safely and legally—and to get the most cash back—you need to follow a few critical steps. This process involves handling potentially hazardous materials and requires the right tools and knowledge. Before you start, make sure you understand the rules and have a solid plan. It’s the best way to protect yourself, the environment, and your wallet.
This is the most important rule of refrigerator scrapping: you cannot handle the refrigerant yourself. Refrigerants are regulated by federal law under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act because they can harm the ozone layer if released. Only a certified technician is legally allowed to remove these chemicals. Cutting the lines yourself is illegal, dangerous, and will get your fridge rejected at the scrap yard. Always hire a professional to “reclaim” the refrigerant first. They will safely drain the system and provide you with documentation proving it was done correctly, which you’ll need to show the scrap yard.
Once the refrigerant is professionally removed, you can start the physical work. But first, gear up. Safety should always be your top priority. Before you touch a single tool, unplug the refrigerator and give it plenty of time to reach room temperature. You’ll need heavy-duty work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges and safety goggles to shield your eyes from flying debris. It’s also smart to wear long sleeves and pants. Work in a well-ventilated area, like an open garage or driveway, to avoid inhaling any dust or fumes.
Once you’re ready to start dismantling, your first task is to play detective. The goal is to sort your metals into different piles because scrap yards pay different rates for each type. The easiest way to start is with a simple magnet. Ferrous metals, like the steel that makes up the fridge’s frame and doors, are magnetic. Non-ferrous metals, like copper and aluminum, are not magnetic and are much more valuable. Your refrigerator is threaded with copper and aluminum that adds significant weight and value. The power cord and all the internal wiring contain copper, which you can strip from its plastic insulation for a higher price. The coils on the back are typically aluminum. By separating these materials, you ensure you get paid the correct, higher price for your valuable non-ferrous metals.
In the scrap world, “clean” doesn’t mean washing the metal—it means isolating it. For example, a “clean” copper pipe has no steel fittings or insulation attached. The more work you do to separate materials, the more money you’ll make. If you just drop the whole unit off, the scrap yard will pay you a low, flat rate for mixed metal, which barely covers your gas and time. The biggest variable, however, is the market itself. Just like stocks, current metal prices change daily based on global supply and demand. A little research can go a long way here. While steel is a ferrous metal and fetches a lower price per pound than copper or aluminum, its weight makes it a crucial part of your scrap total. Don’t underestimate how much that heavy frame can add to your final payout.
To get the best price at the scrap yard, you’ll want to separate the different materials. More than 90% of a refrigerator’s parts can be recycled, and scrap yards pay more for sorted metals. After a professional has removed the refrigerant, you can start dismantling. Focus on separating the valuable components like the copper-heavy compressor, copper wiring, and aluminum coils from the steel frame. You’ll need tools like a socket wrench set, screwdrivers, and wire cutters. Keep your metals in separate piles—one for steel, one for copper, and one for aluminum—to make the weigh-in process smooth and profitable.
Staying on the right side of the law goes beyond just handling refrigerant properly. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program that outlines best practices for recycling appliances. The program emphasizes the safe recovery of not just refrigerants but also insulating foam and metals. As the person getting rid of the appliance, you are responsible for ensuring it’s disposed of in a compliant manner. This is why working with certified technicians and reputable scrap yards is so important. They understand the regulations and ensure every part of your old fridge is handled correctly.
Scrapping a refrigerator seems straightforward, but a few common missteps can cost you time, money, and even lead to legal trouble. If you’re committed to the DIY route, you’ll want to get the most cash for your efforts while staying on the right side of the law. The difference between a profitable trip to the scrap yard and a wasted afternoon often comes down to avoiding these simple, yet costly, mistakes. By preparing your old fridge the right way, you ensure you’re not leaving money on the table or creating a headache for yourself down the road.
The single biggest mistake you can make is hauling your fridge to the scrap yard whole. The real value is hidden inside, specifically within the compressor. This heavy, black motor-like component is packed with valuable copper windings. Many scrap yards will give you a low, flat rate for a complete appliance, but you can earn significantly more if you do the work to dismantle the appliance yourself. Taking the time to safely remove the compressor and separate the copper tubing allows you to sell these high-value materials separately, maximizing your payout. It takes extra effort, but leaving it intact is like throwing cash away.
This mistake isn’t just costly—it’s illegal. Refrigerators contain refrigerants like Freon, which are harmful to the ozone layer if released into the atmosphere. Because of this, a U.S. federal law under the Clean Air Act mandates that a certified technician must recover the refrigerant before the appliance can be scrapped. Simply cutting the lines and letting it vent is against the law and can result in hefty fines. Most scrap yards won’t even accept a fridge unless you can prove the refrigerant has been professionally removed. Always handle this step first to avoid legal penalties and protect the environment.
Tossing all your metal components into one big pile is a surefire way to get a lower price at the scrap yard. Yards pay based on weight and metal type, and they pay top dollar for clean, sorted materials. A refrigerator contains a mix of ferrous metals (like the steel casing) and more valuable non-ferrous metals (like copper and aluminum). While scrap yards might offer a flat rate of $10 to $50 for a whole appliance, you can get a much better return if you separate the valuable metals first. Keep your steel, copper, and aluminum in separate piles to ensure you’re paid accurately for each one.
A clean appliance is much easier for a scrap yard to process, and that can translate to a better experience and sometimes a better price. Before you start taking anything apart, make sure the refrigerator is completely empty. That means no old food, condiments, or forgotten science experiments in the back. Beyond that, you should also remove all shelves, drawers, and other plastic or glass parts from the inside. These materials are typically not valuable as scrap and just get in the way. A stripped-down, clean fridge shows the yard operator you know what you’re doing and makes their job easier.
Once your refrigerator is prepped, the final step is finding the right place to take it. Choosing a reputable scrap service isn’t just about getting the best price; it’s about ensuring the appliance is handled safely and legally. A trustworthy partner will be transparent about their process, pricing, and environmental practices, giving you peace of mind that the job is done right. For property managers or real estate agents dealing with multiple units, finding a reliable go-to service can save a lot of time and hassle down the road.
A quick online search for “scrap yards near me” or “recycling centers in Orange County” will give you a list of local options. But don’t just drive to the first one you see. It’s essential to call ahead first. Every yard has different rules, especially when it comes to appliances containing refrigerants. Ask them directly if they accept refrigerators and what their specific requirements are for Freon removal. This simple phone call can save you a wasted trip and help you find the yard that offers the best terms and prices for your materials.
A good scrap partner is more than just a place to drop off metal. They should be professional, communicative, and clear about their procedures. They’ll tell you exactly how they want materials sorted to help you get the most money for your efforts. For example, they might confirm that you’ll earn more by separating the valuable compressor and copper tubing yourself. Think of them as a resource. A reliable service values your business, whether you’re a homeowner with a single fridge or a contractor with ongoing needs, and they’ll treat you with respect.
Transparency is key. A reputable scrap service will have a straightforward pricing structure, usually based on weight, and they should be able to explain it to you clearly. Beyond the payout, ask about their environmental practices. Old refrigerators contain harmful chemicals that can damage the environment if not disposed of correctly. A responsible partner will follow eco-friendly protocols to ensure these substances are managed safely. Choosing a service committed to responsible appliance disposal protects our communities and shows you care about more than just the cash.
Finally, make sure any service you work with is properly licensed and certified. This is especially important because of the laws around refrigerant handling. The requirement to recover Freon before scrapping a refrigerator is mandated by federal law under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. A certified technician must perform this task. Working with a licensed and insured company protects you from liability and ensures all regulations are met. It’s the best way to know your old appliance is being handled professionally from start to finish.
Deciding whether to scrap an old refrigerator yourself or call in a professional service comes down to a simple trade-off: time and effort versus cost and convenience. While the DIY path can put a little extra cash in your pocket, it’s not as simple as just hauling it to the scrap yard. Let’s break down what each option involves so you can make the right call for your situation.
If you’re feeling ambitious, you can certainly tackle refrigerator scrapping on your own. The biggest perk is that you can make more money by taking the appliance apart and selling its valuable components separately. However, this isn’t a quick weekend project. First, you need to unplug the unit and let it sit for at least 24 hours. The most critical step is hiring a licensed technician to safely and legally remove the refrigerant. This is not optional—it’s required by law. After that, you’ll need the right tools, a vehicle for transport, and a good amount of patience to dismantle the fridge and sort the metals for the scrap yard.
For most people, hiring a professional junk removal service is the clear winner. It’s the fastest, safest, and most straightforward way to get rid of an old fridge. You don’t have to worry about finding a technician, sourcing tools, or spending your weekend breaking down an appliance. A professional team handles everything from hauling it out of your home to ensuring it’s disposed of responsibly. Reputable companies ensure that all parts are properly recycled and that hazardous materials don’t end up harming the environment. Plus, since simply dumping a refrigerator is illegal, using a pro service gives you peace of mind that you’re following the rules.
Once you’ve decided to hire a professional service, the hard part is over. Your job gets a lot easier, but a few simple steps can make the pickup go even more smoothly. Before the crew arrives, please make sure the refrigerator is completely empty of all food and drinks. It’s also helpful to take out any loose items like shelves, drawers, and crispers. This makes the appliance lighter and prevents things from shifting or breaking during removal. Finally, ensure there’s a clear and safe path from the refrigerator to the exit. Our team is used to tight corners, but moving furniture or boxes out of the way beforehand is always appreciated and helps us work more efficiently. That’s it! A professional team handles all the heavy lifting and ensures every part of your old fridge is handled correctly, including the legally required refrigerant recovery, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Let’s talk numbers. Selling a whole refrigerator to a scrap yard might get you between $15 and $50. If you take it apart yourself, you could earn more by selling the copper compressor and other metals individually. Some local utility companies even offer a small rebate for your old, working fridge. But you have to weigh that potential cash against the costs. This includes paying a technician for refrigerant removal, the value of your time, and the sheer hassle of the work. For many homeowners, property managers, and real estate agents, the convenience of a single phone call far outweighs the small profit from DIY scrapping.
If you’re still on the fence, here’s the deciding factor: refrigerant handling. The requirement to have a certified professional remove Freon before scrapping is mandated by Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. This isn’t a guideline; it’s a federal law with serious penalties. The EPA’s Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program was created to enforce the safe recycling of refrigerants, foam, and metals. Unless you have the expertise and certification to handle these hazardous materials yourself, calling an expert is non-negotiable. It protects you, your community, and the environment, ensuring the job is done right from start to finish.
Do I really need to hire a professional to handle the refrigerant? Yes, absolutely. This is the one step you cannot skip. Federal law requires a certified technician to safely remove refrigerants like Freon before an appliance can be scrapped. Attempting to cut the lines yourself is illegal, harmful to the environment, and will get your fridge rejected at any reputable scrap yard. It’s the most important rule in responsible appliance disposal.
Is it worth my time to take the fridge apart myself? That really depends on what your time is worth to you. You can definitely make more money by dismantling the refrigerator and separating the valuable metals, like the copper in the compressor, from the steel frame. However, it requires the right tools, a good bit of physical effort, and a separate trip to the scrap yard. For many people, especially busy property managers or homeowners, the convenience of having a professional service handle everything is a much better deal than the extra cash you might make.
What if my refrigerator is really old and doesn’t even run anymore? It doesn’t matter at all if the fridge is working. Its scrap value comes from the raw materials inside it, not its ability to keep food cold. In fact, older models from before the 2000s can sometimes be worth more because they were often built with heavier gauge steel and more copper than newer, lightweight appliances. So, that dead refrigerator in your garage is still a source of valuable metal.
Why do some scrap yards offer so little for a whole refrigerator? When you bring in a complete refrigerator, the scrap yard is factoring in the labor they have to perform. They will have to safely drain any remaining oils, dismantle the unit, and separate all the different materials themselves. Their low offer, often between $15 and $50, reflects the cost of their time and effort. You get a higher payout when you do that prep work for them.
Besides the compressor, what other parts should I look for? The compressor is definitely the main prize, but don’t overlook the other valuable metals. The copper tubing that runs along the back of the fridge and connects to the compressor is also valuable. You can also collect the power cord and other internal wiring for its copper content. Finally, the cooling coils, which are often made of aluminum or sometimes copper, can be removed and sold separately to add to your total.
The same principles you use for scrapping a refrigerator apply to a whole range of other household items. If you’re managing a property cleanout or just tackling a long-overdue garage purge, knowing what to look for can turn a pile of junk into a surprising bit of cash. Many common appliances are packed with valuable, recyclable metals. From the laundry room to the kitchen counter, that old, broken-down equipment might be worth more than you think. It’s all about understanding where the value is hidden and how to get to it safely.
Your laundry room is another great place to find valuable scrap. Washing machines and dryers are heavy with steel, but their real value comes from the electric motors that turn the drums. These motors contain a good amount of copper wiring, making them a prime target for scrapping. Similarly, old window air conditioning units are rich in valuable materials, including copper coils and aluminum fins. However, just like refrigerators, AC units contain refrigerants that are regulated by federal law. You must have a certified technician safely remove these chemicals before you can take the unit to a scrap yard, as many old household appliances contain these hazardous materials.
Don’t overlook the smaller items cluttering your kitchen counters and storage spaces. While a single toaster won’t make you rich, the value can add up quickly when you’re clearing out an entire property. Microwaves are particularly valuable for their size, as they contain a heavy transformer with copper windings and a magnetron. Other small appliances like blenders, coffee makers, and toasters also have small electric motors and copper wiring inside. The key is to sell old or broken household appliances in volume, as collecting a dozen small items can be just as profitable as one large one.
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