How to get rid of an old, working refrigerator or freezer?

You Can Actually Get Paid to Recycle Your Old Refrigerator or Freezer!

Most people don’t realize this, but your old refrigerator or freezer could actually be worth money.

Many power companies and utility providers across the United States offer appliance recycling programs that pay you to give up an old, working fridge or freezer. These programs are designed to save energy, protect the environment, and reward homeowners for doing the right thing.

In many cases, you get cash, free pickup, and safe disposal — all at the same time.

How Appliance Recycling Programs Work

Utility companies want older appliances off the power grid. Older refrigerators use much more electricity than newer models, even when they still work fine.

So they offer an incentive.

Here’s how it usually works:

1. You schedule a pickup through your local utility provider

2. They verify that the appliance meets the requirements

3. They pick it up from your home

4. You receive a cash reward

Simple and straightforward.

How Much Do You Get Paid?

Most appliance recycling programs pay between:

$25 and $100 per appliance

The exact amount depends on:

• Your utility company

• Your location

• The type and size of the appliance

Some programs offer higher payments during special promotions or energy-saving campaigns.

Appliance Requirements (Important)

To qualify, your refrigerator or freezer usually must:

• Be working and cooling

• Be between 10 and 30 cubic feet

• Be empty and unplugged at pickup

• Be located in an accessible area

If the appliance does not cool anymore, most utility programs will not accept it.

Extra Benefits You Might Not Expect

Free Removal

You don’t have to haul the appliance yourself. Pickup is usually included at no cost.

Safe Disposal

Old refrigerators contain chemicals that should never go into landfills. These programs make sure everything is handled safely.

Lower Energy Use

Once the old unit is gone, your home uses less electricity, which can lower your power bill over time.

What Happens to the Appliance?

The appliance is:

• Taken apart safely

• Recycled properly

• Stripped of harmful materials

• Kept out of landfills

This protects the environment and keeps dangerous substances out of soil and water.

Other Appliances That May Qualify

Some utility providers also offer smaller incentives for:

• Dehumidifiers

• Window air conditioners

• Older freezers

• Small cooling appliances

Payments for these items are usually lower, but removal is often still free.

How to Find a Program Near You

To check if you qualify:

1. Visit your local utility provider’s website

2. Search for “appliance recycling”, “refrigerator rebate”, or “energy efficiency program”

3. Review the rules and schedule pickup

Most large utility companies clearly list these programs online.

For example: Pepco’s appliance recycling program and BGE’s appliance recycling

What If Your Appliance Doesn’t Qualify?

If your refrigerator or freezer is not working, you still have options.

Companies like Movers On Duty can help with:

• Appliance removal

• Hauling and disposal

• Recycling when possible

This keeps your home clean and prevents illegal dumping.

Final Thought

If you have an old refrigerator or freezer that still works, don’t throw it away.

You could:

• Get paid

• Get free removal

• Help the environment

All by making one simple call or scheduling online.

And if you need help removing appliances that don’t qualify, Movers On Duty is always here to help!

Besides being licensed, insured, and bonded, Movers On Duty is a Better Business Bureau-accredited moving company with an A+ rating.

Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more!