Where to Take Old Refrigerators? 7 Options [2026]

Yes — scrap metal recyclers accept old refrigerators in any condition. A typical fridge contains 150-250 lbs of scrap steel, plus copper tubing and an aluminum condenser. Scrap yards pay $15-$35 per unit depending on current steel prices and fridge size.

The catch: most scrap yards require the refrigerant (Freon) to be recovered first. An EPA Section 608 certified technician must evacuate the refrigerant before the fridge can be legally scrapped. Some recyclers handle this in-house. Call ahead to confirm.

To find scrap recyclers near you, search "[your city] scrap metal recycler" or check iScrap App for local yard listings.

Many electric utilities run refrigerator recycling programs that include free pickup AND a cash rebate. These programs exist because old fridges use 3-5x more electricity than new ENERGY STAR models — utilities save money by getting them off the grid.

Current rebate amounts by utility:

• •UGI Electric: $75 rebate + free pickup
• •PPL Electric: $50 rebate + free pickup
• •Atlantic City Electric: $50 rebate + free pickup (offer ends June 30, 2026)
• •Eversource/UI (Connecticut): $30 rebate + free pickup
• •Minnesota Power: rebate available through December 31, 2026
• •Massachusetts utilities: rebate + free pickup through December 2026

Requirements: The fridge must be working (plugged in and cooling at pickup), full-size (10-30 cubic feet), and connected to your electric account. Most programs limit you to 2 units per year.

Find your utility's program at energystar.gov/recycle.

Best Buy accepts old refrigerators through their haul-away service. Two options:

• •With a new appliance purchase: $49.99 haul-away fee. The delivery crew takes your old fridge when they bring the new one.
• •Without a purchase: $199.99 standalone haul-away for up to 2 large appliances.

Best Buy also operates free in-store recycling drop-off for smaller electronics and appliances, but refrigerators are too large for this program.

Working refrigerators in good cosmetic condition can be donated to several organizations that offer free pickup:

• •Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Accepts working fridges, offers pickup in most metro areas. Donations are tax-deductible. Schedule at habitat.org/restores.
• •Salvation Army: Accepts working appliances in good condition. Call your local branch to schedule pickup.
• •Goodwill: Some locations accept large appliances, but policies vary by region. Call first.
• •Local churches and shelters: Many accept working appliances directly.

Donation requirements: The fridge must power on, cool properly, have no cosmetic damage (dents, rust, broken shelves), and be less than 10-15 years old. Non-working fridges cannot be donated.

Most cities offer free bulk pickup that includes refrigerators, but there are restrictions:

• •Wait times: 2-8 weeks in most cities. Some require scheduling months in advance.
• •Door removal: Many municipalities require refrigerator doors to be removed before curbside pickup (child safety law). Check your city's requirements.
• •Scheduling: Most cities require you to call or submit an online request. Items left at the curb without a pickup scheduled may result in a code violation fine of $50-$500.
• •Refrigerant: Some cities require proof that refrigerant was professionally recovered before they'll pick up the unit.

City bulk pickup works if you're not in a rush. If you need the fridge gone today, a junk removal service is faster.

Refrigerator removal costs range from free (scrap recyclers, utility programs, donations) to $300+ (full-service junk removal).

• •Scrap metal recycler: Free — they may pay you $15-$35
• •Utility recycling program: Free + $30-$75 rebate (fridge must work)
• •Home Depot haul-away (with purchase): $25
• •Best Buy haul-away (with purchase): $49.99
• •Dropcurb: $79 flat, same-day, any condition
• •LoadUp: $87-$150+
• •1-800-GOT-JUNK: $100-$300+ (no online pricing)
• •Best Buy standalone haul-away: $199.99

The cheapest path depends on your fridge's condition. Working fridges qualify for utility rebates and donation. Non-working fridges go to scrap recyclers or junk removal services.