Whether you’re renovating your kitchen or finally getting rid of a stove from the 1970’s, disposing of large appliances is cumbersome. Where to take them? Some try setting junk removal sacramento old dishwashers or washing machines out with the trash, in hopes a passerby with a large truck will “help themselves” to the appliance. If this method fails, there are other options available, and very few involve you carting it anywhere.
Home Delivery and Take Away
If you are getting a new appliance installed, chances are the company who installs the appliance will also take away your old appliance for a nominal fee (or sometimes free of charge). Inquire at the time of purchase if your retailer offers this service.
Craigslist.org
Old appliances are still worth a few dollars, especially if there’s a college student down the street in need of a cheap washer or dryer. Appliances are hot commodities on Craigslist and sell fairly quickly, as long as they’re working and contain all of their parts. Try posting your old appliance on Craigslist on a Saturday morning, and state in your ad that the buyer must be responsible for transporting the item. If the burden of owning the appliance is greater than trying to sell it, try posting a listing under Craigslist’s “Free” section. Even if your appliance no longer works, it’s likely someone else will be able to find a use for the parts.
Freecycle.org
Similar to Craigslist, freecycle is a community-specific listing; only all items are offered for free. Browse all “wanted” posts before sharing your “offer”, as someone may have already posted a request for the appliance you’re trying to get rid of.
Bounty Programs (for Refrigerators and Freezers)
If you’re getting rid of a refrigerator or freezer manufactured before 1995, it probably contains chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) refrigerant, an ozone-depleting substance. According to the EPA, if released in the environment, CFC refrigerants can be detrimental to the ozone layer and contribute to global climate change.
In order to help and encourage the general public to safely dispose of their old refrigerators and freezers, there are bounty programs in place in multiple states. A bounty program will pay a “bounty” for old appliances that are inefficient. Contact your state’s electric utility (part of the governing body known as State Utility Commission) to find out if there’s a bounty program near you.
Salvation Army
Giving your large appliance to charity is a great way to help those who are less fortunate. The Salvation Army has a large box truck available for home pickups. Go online or call your local Salvation Army to schedule a pickup.