How To Dispose of Your Appliances
Want to upgrade your appliance, but not sure what to do with your current model? Now, it’s easier than ever to recycle appliances safely – or, if they still work, you could even find them a new home.
Read on to find out how you can make way for your brand-new model!
Read on to find out how you can make way for your brand-new model!
Check If Your Appliance Is Recyclable or Reusable
Firstly, decide whether you should recycle, donate, or even fix your current appliance:
Recycle: Electricals can no longer be added to your standard waste, so items beyond repair should be recycled – this is generally the case if your appliance has a plug, charger, batteries, or has the image of a crossed out wheelie bin on it (WEEE).Donate/sell: If your appliance still works well, you could donate it to charity or offer it to family and friends.
Fix: Perhaps you’re on a budget? A simple repair could extend your appliance’s lifespan, so you won’t need to splash out on a new model. Check online repairing guides or contact a professional.
If you’re still unsure, check your appliance’s manual as it may include information about disposal.
Prepare Appliance for Removal
Before you remove your old appliance, you’ll need to get it prepped:
- Unplug and switch off the appliance.
- If you’re donating a Smart TV, restore it to the factory settings to remove any personal information.
- Disconnect any water, waste, gas, or electricity supplies. If disconnecting a gas oven from a gas line, you’ll need to consult a Certified Gas Engineer to do this for you.
If you choose to recycle your appliance, follow these easy steps:
- Make sure the item is suitable for recycling. For example, you'll need to defrost freezers and drain water from washing machines.
- Fridges require extra care, as they may contain CFC material which needs to be removed. If your appliance is being collected, this should be sorted out for you. Otherwise, check if your local recycling centre accepts fridges.
Recycle Your Appliance
Think your appliance has reached the end of its life? See your recycling options below:Local recycling centres: Ideal for smaller electrical items, offered by every council. Check where your recycling point is here.
Collection service: Offered by some councils – find out whether your area has this option here. If you’d prefer your appliance to be collected sooner, contact a waste removal company.
Retailers drop off or collection: If you buy a new appliance in-store, you may be able to return an old item. Some retailers will even take it away when they deliver your new item.
If your appliance still works, there are various ways your item could be reused – read on to find out more.
Donate or Sell Your Appliance
If your appliance still works well, you could find it a new home instead:Donate: Some charity shops will accept electrical donations, so give them a call to check. Collection services are often available for larger items like fridges.
Give away: Sites like Freecycle let you advertise your item for free – then local members can arrange collection. Or you could ask family or friends if they would be interested.
Sell: Fancy some extra cash to go towards your new appliance? Why not sell your appliance on websites like eBay and Gumtree? List your model and set your delivery option to collection for your buyer to pick it up. Make sure you list the correct model and describe the condition accurately.
So, it’s out with the old and in with the new! Disposing of your appliance could be as simple as making a phone call – and if it still works, you could even do your bit for charity. Pick the most convenient option for you and wave goodbye to your unwanted goods.
