If you need to dispose of an old refrigerator, breaking it down into scrap metal could yield a good payout. However, because certain components of a refrigerator can be hazardous, it’s important to be meticulous when preparing it for the scrapyard. To help you get started, here are a few tips on recycling refrigerators.

3 Tips for Scrapping a Refrigerator 

1. Bring in the Professionals 

Although you can do most of the scrapping yourself, you’ll have to hire an HVAC contractor to remove the Freon®. Those who attempt to remove Freon without proper certification face hefty fines. Further, since any reputable scrapyard won't accept a fridge that hasn't been drained, calling in a professional is essential. 

2. Disassemble the Major Components 

After all the Freon has been safely drained, take off the doors, and remove the shelves from the inside of the fridge. If the shelves are metal, make sure to save them. Then, cut the power cord, and set it aside as copper scrap. Using an electric drill, remove the back of the fridge to access its mechanical components. The compressor, fan, and tubing will all contain metal, so save their various parts as you continue disassembling the fridge. 

3. Separate Each Material 

Breaking down a fridge should yield steel, copper, and aluminum. Once you’ve picked apart all the refrigerator’s components, separate each scrap metal into its own pile. This will help facilitate the transaction at the scrapyard. The more work you do on your end, the more money you’ll get for it. If you were to stop after draining the Freon, for example, and just recycle the whole fridge as mixed scrap, you would get considerably less cash. 

If you have scrap metal that needs recycling, turn to Metalico Rochester. Located in Monroe County, NY, they accept all kinds of items, including car parts, electronics, appliances, and construction materials. To browse a complete list of household items that you can scrap for cash, visit their website. To talk to a member of their team about selling your scrap metal, call (585) 436-0713.