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:
You schedule a pickup through your local utility provider
They verify that the appliance meets the requirements
They pick it up from your home
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:
Visit your local utility provider’s website
Search for “appliance recycling”, “refrigerator rebate”, or “energy efficiency program”
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!
