Old appliances are bulky, heavy and often contain refrigerants or other materials that cannot go in the regular trash. Most cities ban them from curbside pickup. The good news is that there are several easy ways to get rid of one, and some of them pay you.

This guide covers six options, from selling it to having it hauled away.

Quick answer
  1. Best if it works: sell it or give it away.
  2. Best if it does not: a retailer haul-away when you buy new.
  3. Free option: your city's bulky-item pickup.
  4. Paid option: a scrap metal recycler.
  5. Never: leave it on the curb or in a dumpster.

On this page

  1. The 6 options
  2. Which to choose
  3. Preparing it for disposal
  4. FAQ

The 6 options

OptionCostBest for
Sell itYou get paidWorking appliances
Give it awayFreeWorking appliances, quick removal
Retailer haul-awayFree with purchaseBuying a replacement
City bulky pickupFree or small feeAny appliance
Scrap recyclerYou may get paidMetal-heavy appliances
Haul-away service$50–$150When you need it gone now

If the appliance still works, selling or giving it away is the best option. If it does not, a retailer haul-away when you buy a replacement is the easiest. Your city's bulky-item pickup is the free fallback, and a scrap recycler may even pay you for the metal.

Which to choose

  • Working fridge or washer: sell it or list it free for pickup.
  • Buying a new one: ask the retailer to haul the old one away.
  • Not working, no replacement: book a city bulky pickup.
  • Metal-heavy: call a scrap recycler.
  • Urgent: pay a haul-away service.
  • Never: leave it on the curb or in a dumpster.

Preparing it for disposal

  1. Empty it completely and clean it out.
  2. Remove the doors from a fridge or freezer for safety.
  3. Disconnect water and gas lines if applicable.
  4. Remove any personal items from drawers and shelves.
  5. Secure the cord so it does not drag.
  6. Move it to an accessible spot for pickup.
Bottom line

To dispose of an old appliance, sell it or give it away if it works, use a retailer haul-away when buying a replacement, or book a city bulky pickup. A scrap recycler may pay you for the metal. Never leave an appliance on the curb or in a dumpster.

Frequently asked questions

Moving an appliance

A dolly makes moving a fridge or washer safe and quick.

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How do I get rid of an old refrigerator?
Sell it or give it away if it works, use a retailer haul-away when buying a new one, or book a city bulky-item pickup. Never leave it on the curb.
Can I put an old appliance in the trash?
No. Most cities ban appliances from regular trash because of refrigerants and other materials. Use a bulky pickup or a recycler.
Will a retailer take away my old appliance?
Most large retailers offer free haul-away when you buy a new appliance. Ask when you order.
Can I get paid for an old appliance?
Yes, if it works you can sell it. If it does not, a scrap metal recycler may pay you for the metal content.
Why should I remove the doors from an old fridge?
For safety. Children can become trapped inside an abandoned fridge. Removing the doors eliminates the risk.