How to recycle an old appliance

Filed in Guest Posts by on June 26, 2013
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how to recycle an appliance WEEERecycling shouldn’t just end with old newspapers, bottles and cans.

Next time you want to upgrade your old fridge or your washing machine is on its last legs, consider how you can dispose of your appliance and ensure you maintain your eco conscience.

Recycling an appliance is a lot easier than you might think, but there are still a number of things to consider.

Most important is the impact that various chemicals contained in appliances such as fridges and freezer can have.

Whatever you choose to do with your appliance you should make sure that you dispose of it responsibly to ensure there is minimal impact on the environment.

Follow these easy tips to help you recycle your old appliance efficiently and ethically.

Charity shops and donations

If you want to upgrade your old appliance but it’s still in good working order, consider donating it to a friend or charity shop. If you want to donate to a charity shop, first establish whether they take appliances. They’ll probably want you to verify a few details including age and condition so ensure that you’re able to provide them with all the relevant information.

If possible, find out whether the charity can pick up your appliance for you, that way you won’t have the hassle of having to hire a truck or van to take it to the relevant location.

Local authority

If your old appliance is beyond repair and can’t be donated, call your local council and ask about the recycling options they provide for appliances. Some may offer a rebate or discount on future appliances or energy bills.

If you really don’t have the option to recycle your old appliance, your local council or waste management centre should still be able to tell you about where you can dispose of your appliance responsibly.

A number of landfill sites offer special areas for old appliances to be disposed of in a contained area, ensuring that any harmful chemicals don’t impact the environment.

Scrap metal traders

If you don’t have the time or resources to arrange to take your old appliance to a landfill there’s always the age old tradition of scrap metal traders. With the ability to pick up your appliance from your home, scrap metal traders are a quick and easy solution for disposing of old products.

If you’re wanting to maintain your eco conscience, ensure that you choose a reputable scrap metal tradesperson who will ensure all the components of your old appliance are disposed of ethically and environmentally. Ask around and read reviews to find the best tradesperson in your local area.

Appliance Companies

If you’re purchasing a new appliance and need to get rid of an old one, check to see if the company you’re purchasing from offers disposal services. For example, the UK’s largest online white goods retailer Appliances Online will recycle your old appliance, in line with the government’s WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive. This ensures that you can be confident that your old appliance has been disposed of in the right way.

Recycling an old appliance can often seem a daunting task but if consider the impact on the environment and take steps to ensure you dispose of it ethically and efficiently, you can enjoy your brand new fridge, washing machine or dishwasher knowing that you’ve done what you can to help the environment.

Post written by Sarah Murray from Appliances Online which is the UK’s largest online white goods company.

About the Author ()

I am a long time supporter of the Green and Sustainable lifestyle. After being caught in the Boscastle floods in 2004, our family begun a journey to respect and promote the importance of Earth's fragile ecosystem, that focussed on reducing waste. Inspired by the beauty and resourcefulness of this wonderful planet, I have published numerous magazine articles on green issues and the author of four books.

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