Answer sources: SA Recycling appliance and material FAQ; NYC311 exact bulk materials and exceptions
Check the free routes first
Ask your local municipality whether bulk collection accepts an emptied water heater and whether your unit falls within its size limit. Rules are local, not national. In New York City, units up to 50 gallons are accepted under residential bulk rules; larger units require a private carter.
You can also contact a scrap buyer such as SA Recycling. Confirm that the yard accepts your specific water heater and whether household pickup is available before relying on that option.
Sources: SA Recycling appliance and material FAQ; NYC311 exact bulk materials and exceptions.
Prepare the water heater safely
Have a qualified professional disconnect and drain the water heater before collection. Do not assume a replacement plumber will remove the old unit unless that service is confirmed in the quote.
Before transporting the tank yourself, check the water-heater transport guidance for reuse versus disposal.
Sources: SA Recycling appliance and material FAQ.
If the free routes do not work
Dropcurb can collect an accepted water heater from an accessible outdoor location. You can check the item price before moving it, but the water heater must be outside and accessible before pickup; indoor carry-out is not available.
Sources: Dropcurb current pricing and standard pickup scope.
Current Dropcurb prices
Scroll to compare all columns
| Item | Pickup of one | Each additional |
|---|---|---|
| Water heater | $129 | $59 |
For accepted items outside and accessible. Your pickup uses the highest first-item price, plus the additional-item price for each remaining item. Loading, transportation and disposal are included. Prices are before applicable sales tax; see your total before payment.
Sources
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