Appliance Disposal Guide: How to Get Rid of Old Appliances

Q: Can I put an old refrigerator or AC unit at the curb?

In most jurisdictions, no — not without first having the refrigerant professionally evacuated. Refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers contain refrigerants (R-22 or R-410A) that are regulated under the EPA's Clean Air Act. Abandoning these appliances with refrigerant intact is illegal and can result in fines. Your municipality's bulk pickup program may require you to schedule a special collection, not just put it at the curb.

Q: Does a junk removal company handle appliance refrigerant disposal?

Reputable junk removal companies either have EPA Section 608-certified technicians on staff or partner with a certified refrigerant recovery service. This is a legitimate additional fee, typically $25-50 per refrigerant-containing appliance. A company that doesn't charge extra for refrigerant appliances may not be handling them correctly.

Q: What is the cheapest way to dispose of old appliances?

Working appliances can often be sold or given away for free on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist — someone will haul it for free. Appliance retailers sometimes offer haul-away of the old unit when delivering a new one. Scrap metal dealers accept appliances but you'll need to transport them yourself. Junk removal is the most convenient option but not the cheapest if you're counting the cost vs. DIY hauling.

Why Appliance Disposal Is Regulated

Appliances aren't like other junk. Several categories contain materials that are legally regulated and can't simply be dumped:

Refrigerants: Refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers contain HFC or HCFC refrigerants regulated under the EPA's Clean Air Act. These must be professionally recovered by a Section 608-certified technician before the appliance is scrapped.
Mercury: Some older appliances contain mercury switches or thermostats, which require special handling.
PCBs: Old fluorescent light ballasts and some electrical components in older appliances may contain polychlorinated biphenyls — hazardous under TSCA regulations.
Freon (R-22): Older AC units and refrigerators using R-22 are a specific concern because R-22 is an ozone-depleting substance and is no longer manufactured. Proper recovery is especially important.

Your Appliance Disposal Options

Junk Removal (Most Convenient)

Full-service junk removal companies will pick up appliances from inside your home, handle refrigerant recovery for regulated items, and dispose of them at appropriate facilities. Expect per-appliance fees in addition to the base removal charge:

Refrigerators/freezers: $40-80 additional (refrigerant recovery)
Air conditioners (window/portable): $30-60 additional
Washing machines/dryers: $20-50 additional
Dishwashers: $20-40 additional

Retailer Haul-Away (Free or Low Cost)

When purchasing a new appliance, many retailers offer to haul away the old one. Home Depot, Lowe's, and major appliance stores often include this with delivery or charge a modest fee ($25-50). This is one of the most cost-effective options if you're replacing rather than just removing.

Municipal Bulk Pickup

Most municipalities offer bulk item pickup programs. Refrigerant appliances typically need to be scheduled separately, not left at the curb. Check your city or county's website for specific instructions — procedures vary widely.

Scrap Metal Dealers

Appliances contain significant amounts of steel, copper, and aluminum. Scrap dealers accept them and may pay you a small amount per pound. You'll need to transport the appliance yourself. Note: refrigerant appliances must still have refrigerant recovered before a scrap dealer will accept them legally.

Sell or Give Away (If Working)

Working appliances have real value on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and through local nonprofit listings. A functioning washer/dryer set or refrigerator in decent condition can often be given away for free with the buyer doing the haul — you incur no cost.

What NOT to Do

Don't leave refrigerant appliances at the curb without prior scheduling. In most cities, this violates local ordinance and can result in a fine. The EPA violation is separate.
Don't hire a company that doesn't charge for refrigerant recovery. If a company doesn't add a fee for refrigerators and ACs, they're either using a loss leader to attract work or not handling refrigerant legally.
Don't assume a dumpster rental includes appliances. Many dumpster rental companies exclude appliances from their loads due to the refrigerant issue. Confirm before loading.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put an old refrigerator or AC unit at the curb?

In most jurisdictions, not without prior scheduling and refrigerant recovery. Check your municipality's bulk pickup program for specific requirements.

Does a junk removal company handle appliance refrigerant disposal?

Reputable companies do, and they charge a legitimate additional fee for it. If a company doesn't charge extra for refrigerant appliances, ask how they handle it.

What is the cheapest way to dispose of old appliances?

Working appliances can often be given away on Marketplace or Craigslist. Retailer haul-away when buying a replacement is also low cost. Junk removal is the most convenient but not always cheapest option.

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JunkRemovalSource is an informational resource. Appliance disposal regulations vary by state and municipality. EPA Clean Air Act requirements for refrigerant recovery apply federally. Always confirm regulatory compliance with your chosen disposal provider.

How to Dispose of Old Appliances Safely