How to Dispose of an Old Refrigerator

Why You Can't Just Put a Refrigerator at the Curb

Refrigerators contain refrigerants — chemical compounds that are regulated under the Clean Air Act because they contribute to ozone depletion and climate change when released into the atmosphere. Disposing of a refrigerator improperly is illegal in most jurisdictions and can result in fines. The good news: there are multiple free and easy options for responsible refrigerator disposal, and some even pay you.

Option 1: Retailer Haul-Away (Easiest)

The simplest disposal option is to have the retailer take your old refrigerator when they deliver the new one. Most major retailers offer this service:

Home Depot: Free haul-away of old refrigerators with new appliance delivery
Lowe's: Haul-away available with delivery; confirm terms when ordering
Best Buy: Appliance haul-away available; free for members on qualifying purchases
Costco: Haul-away included with appliance delivery on select items

Retailers are required to ensure proper refrigerant recovery before recycling hauled appliances. Confirm the haul-away policy when you place your order — terms vary by location.

Option 2: Utility Company Recycling Program (Best Value)

Many electric utility companies run free refrigerator pickup programs specifically for old, inefficient units. These programs exist because removing old refrigerators from service reduces energy demand on the grid.

Benefits typically include:

Free scheduled pickup from your home
Cash rebates of $25–$100 for qualifying refrigerators
Certified refrigerant recovery included
Confirmation that the unit was recycled responsibly

Find programs in your area through the ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder or by searching your utility company's website for "refrigerator recycling" or "appliance recycling."

This is the best option if available in your area — it's free, often comes with a cash rebate, and ensures proper refrigerant handling.

Option 3: Municipal Bulk Waste Pickup

Most cities and counties offer bulk waste pickup for large appliances. Contact your local waste management department to schedule a pickup. Key points:

Advance scheduling is typically required (1–2 weeks notice)
Some municipalities charge a fee ($20–75) for refrigerator pickup due to refrigerant handling requirements
The refrigerator must be placed at the curb on the designated pickup day
Confirm that refrigerant recovery is included — some municipalities require you to have refrigerant removed separately before curbside pickup

Option 4: Scrap Metal Dealers

Refrigerators contain significant amounts of steel, copper, and aluminum. Many scrap metal dealers will pick up old refrigerators for free, and some pay a small amount based on current scrap metal prices. However, scrap dealers must be EPA Section 608 certified to handle refrigerants — confirm this before scheduling pickup.

Search "scrap metal pickup" or "appliance scrap" in your area and ask specifically whether they handle refrigerant recovery.

Option 5: Donate If It Still Works

If your old refrigerator is still functional, donation is the most sustainable option:

Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Accepts working refrigerators; free pickup available in many locations
Local shelters and community organizations: Often accept working appliances
Salvation Army and Goodwill: Accept working refrigerators at select locations

Call ahead to confirm acceptance and pickup availability.

Moving the Refrigerator for Disposal

If you need to move the refrigerator to the curb, garage, or a pickup location yourself, a heavy-duty hand truck is essential. The LEEYOUNG Folding Hand Truck Dolly (375lb capacity) handles refrigerators safely on both indoor and outdoor surfaces and folds flat for storage when not in use.

Before Disposal: What to Do First

Empty completely — remove all food, shelves, and drawers
Defrost fully — allow 24–48 hours; drain the water pan
Disconnect the water line if the refrigerator has a water dispenser or ice maker
Unplug and allow to reach room temperature
Remove the doors if the refrigerator will be stored outside temporarily — required by law in many states to prevent child entrapment
Secure the power cord to prevent tripping hazards during transport

What NOT to Do

Don't release refrigerant yourself — it's illegal under the Clean Air Act and requires EPA-certified equipment
Don't leave a refrigerator with doors attached outside unattended — entrapment risk and illegal in many states
Don't put a refrigerator in regular trash or dumpsters
Don't abandon a refrigerator in a storage unit or rental property

Final Thoughts

The easiest refrigerator disposal option is retailer haul-away when buying new. The best value option is your utility company's recycling program — free pickup and often a cash rebate. If neither is available, municipal bulk pickup or a certified scrap dealer are reliable alternatives. Whatever method you choose, ensure refrigerant recovery is handled by a certified professional — it's a legal requirement and an environmental responsibility.

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