Home Appliances

Because electrical appliances contain so many different materials, some of which may be toxic, you can't recycle them in the standard manner unless you have expertise in dismantling electrical goods and sorting the materials. Restrictions on disposal in the garbage may also apply. However, there are several companies that collect and recycle entire items. It is also possible to find new homes for appliances that are still in good working order, or only need minor repairs.

Issues

In the United States, millions of electrical appliances are thrown out every year, including about 9 million refrigerators. Electrical goods make a substantial contribution to landfill, reducing the land available for natural habitat, recreation or agriculture. Raw materials and energy are required to make the new items to replace the old. Some appliances, such as refrigerators, may contain highly toxic materials, which contribute to air, land and soil pollution when they leak into the environment. Recycling appliances addresses all of these issues, although it's far better for people not to continuously replace items that are still in working order, and to repair those with minor problems.

White Goods

Stores often collect or accept white goods such as refrigerators, freezers and washing machines for recycling when they sell new ones. Sometimes they provide a discount on new item for trading in the old. If the store won't collect, there may be other appliance recycling schemes in your area. To find out local policy on recycling white goods, check the Environmental Protection Agency's website or use Earth911's handy search function.

Other Appliances

Other electrical appliances including toasters, microwave ovens and food processors may be covered by recycling policies in your area. As with white goods, some stores provide discounts for trade-ins on certain goods such as coffee machines or vacuum cleaners. Otherwise, local recycling companies may accept such items, especially if they are still in working order. General second-hand or electrical second-hand stores pay for some items, although it is best to phone the store beforehand to confirm details. Some thrift shops accept small electrical appliances as donations.

Other Options

People need items that are still in working order or need only small repairs, especially when money is tight. High-end appliances are worth money and you can sell them through local advertising. Others may well get takers if you advertise them on a site such as Freecycle. Some charities and NGOs such as the Salvation Army and Goodwill collect and redistribute or sell appliances. Small local charities and community groups may need such goods for their own use.