Appliance disposal sounds simple until you're staring at a 300-pound refrigerator wondering how to get it out the door. You can't just toss your old fridge on the curb—there are rules, regulations, and real environmental consequences.
Understanding Appliance Disposal Requirements
Before you move that washer or dryer an inch, you need to know what you're dealing with. The government has specific rules about appliance disposal for good reason.
Federal EPA Regulations for Refrigerant Recovery
The EPA doesn't mess around when it comes to refrigerants. Any appliance that cools or freezes contains chemicals that are federally regulated. Refrigerants must be recovered properly before the appliance gets dismantled or tossed.
Hazardous Materials in Old Appliances
Older appliances contain hazardous materials including mercury in switches, PCBs in electrical components, and contaminated oils in compressors. The foam insulation in refrigerators can contain ozone-depleting substances that leak into soil and groundwater when improperly disposed.
Improper disposal releases greenhouse gases, contaminates the environment, wastes valuable recyclable materials, and can result in hefty fines.
Appliance Disposal Options
Professional Junk Removal Services
Professional services handle everything from start to finish. They come to your home, remove the appliance from wherever it's sitting, load it up, and dispose of it properly. No truck rental, no begging friends, no back injuries.
Retailer Haul-Away Programs
Buying a new appliance? Most major retailers offer haul-away services for free or $25-$50. Your new appliance arrives and your old one disappears the same day.
Municipal Bulk Pickup Services
Atlanta and surrounding areas offer bulk pickup services. Schedule a pickup, put your appliance out on the designated day, and the city hauls it away. Some municipalities require refrigerant recovery first.
Donation and Resale Alternatives
If your appliance still works, consider giving it a second life. Donation makes sense when your appliance is functional, clean, and less than seven years old.
Local Organizations Accepting Donations
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores—free pickup available
- The Salvation Army—accepts working appliances
- Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist—sell working units
Preparing Appliances for Safe Disposal
- Unplug refrigerators 24 hours before removal to defrost
- Remove all food, shelves, and drawers
- Disconnect water and gas lines properly
- Remove doors from fridges/freezers for safety compliance
Cost Considerations
Professional appliance disposal typically costs $75-$200 per appliance. Volume discounts often available for multiple items.
Free Pickup Option
Georgia Power offers $35 rebate for recycling refrigerators/freezers, plus $20 for dehumidifiers or room ACs removed at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put my old refrigerator on the curb?
Not without following local regulations. Most municipalities require refrigerant recovery first and scheduling a special bulk pickup.
How much does professional disposal cost in Atlanta?
Professional services typically charge $75-$200 per appliance. Free options exist through utility company rebate programs.
What appliances can be donated?
Working appliances less than seven years old are usually acceptable—refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves, and dishwashers that are clean and functional.
Do I need a certified technician to remove refrigerant?
Professional removal services handle this. Don't attempt to release refrigerant yourself—it's illegal.
How long does appliance removal take?
Most single appliance removals take 15-30 minutes once the crew arrives.