Recycling a refrigerator isn’t as simple as dropping it off at any scrap yard. Due to environmental regulations, refrigerants like Freon must be properly removed before recycling. If you’re wondering where to go and what to do, this guide will walk you through the best options for recycling your refrigerator while putting some cash in your pocket.
Where to Recycle Your Refrigerator?
For residential customers looking to recycle a refrigerator in Salt Lake City, we recommend visiting Wasatch Metal Recycling. They accept refrigerators for a $20 fee, but this fee is deducted from your total scrap value, meaning you still walk away with cash in hand. One of the biggest advantages of recycling with Wasatch Metal is that they work with a certified EPA 608 technician for you to safely remove the Freon for you, ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
If you’re a commercial customer or have multiple refrigerators and other Freon-containing appliances, you may prefer to recycle with Metro Recycling. However, before bringing your refrigerator to Metro Group, you’ll need to hire a certified EPA 608 technician yourself to remove the Freon. The technician will provide you with a signed document verifying Freon removal, which you must present when dropping off your refrigerator at Metro Group. While this option makes sense for large loads, it can be more expensive for individuals, as Freon removal typically costs $50 or more per appliance. For one refrigerator, Wasatch Metal is often the easiest and most cost-effective option.
Why Is Freon Removal Required?
The requirement for Freon removal before scrapping a refrigerator is mandated by Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. This U.S. federal law establishes the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) responsibility to regulate refrigerant handling, ensuring that harmful chemicals do not damage the environment. Only certified technicians can legally recover Freon from appliances to prevent its release into the atmosphere, which contributes to ozone depletion and climate change.
Why Recycle Instead of Taking It to the Landfill?
Disposing of a refrigerator at a landfill typically incurs a fee, and the appliance still needs to be processed correctly. However, at Wasatch Metal Recycling, you get paid instead of paying a fee, making it a win-win situation—you protect the environment while also earning some extra cash. If you value sustainability and financial benefits, choosing a licensed scrap metal recycler like Metro Recycling or Wasatch Metal is the way to go.
Boosting Sustainability Through Metro Recycling
If you’re looking for a reliable scrap yard to handle large-scale recycling, Metro Group offers comprehensive scrap metal recycling solutions. Visit Metro Group’s website for more information on how we can assist with commercial scrap metal recycling, container services, and more.
By choosing the right recycling method for your refrigerator, you ensure compliance with environmental laws while making the process as profitable and convenient as possible. Whether you visit Wasatch Metal Recycling or Metro Recycling, you’re taking a step toward responsible scrap metal disposal.
