How Much Do You Get for Scrapping a Lawn Mower?

Scrapping a lawn mower involves dismantling it to recover its metal components for recycling. This allows for responsible disposal and potential financial return. Understanding the factors that contribute to its value and the steps involved can help maximize benefits. The process reclaims valuable metals, reducing the need for new raw material extraction and supporting environmental sustainability.

Factors Affecting Scrap Value

The monetary value derived from scrapping a lawn mower depends significantly on the types of metals it contains and current market conditions. Lawn mowers typically consist primarily of steel, which forms the frame and engine block, but also include components made of aluminum and copper. Steel, often categorized as light iron, generally yields lower prices per pound, ranging from approximately $0.03 to $0.05. Aluminum parts, such as engine casings or decks, can fetch higher prices, with clean sheet aluminum ranging from $0.66 to $0.75 per pound. Copper, found in electrical wiring and small motor components, is among the most valuable scrap metals, with prices for various grades often exceeding $2.00 to $3.00 per pound.

Market prices for scrap metals fluctuate constantly due to global supply and demand, the cost of producing new metals, and energy expenses. High demand from industries like construction and manufacturing can drive prices up, while increased supply or lower demand can lead to price decreases. The overall weight of the mower is a key factor of its value, as scrap yards pay by weight for each metal type. The condition of the metal, including the presence of non-metal contaminants like plastic, rubber, or fluids, significantly impacts its value; clean, sorted metals command higher prices.

Preparing a Lawn Mower for Scrap

Preparing a lawn mower for scrapping involves steps to ensure safety and maximize the value of the metal. Wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses. All fluids, including gasoline and engine oil, must be completely drained from the mower. Scrap metal recyclers will not accept mowers that still contain these liquids, and improper disposal can harm the environment.

To drain gasoline, disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting, then use a siphon pump or tilt the mower to empty the fuel tank into a suitable container. For oil, warm up the engine briefly to help it drain more easily, then place a pan underneath the drain plug or tilt the mower to collect the oil.

After draining, remove all non-metal components, such as plastic housing, wheels, tires, seats, and fabric bags. Separating different metal types, like aluminum engine parts from the steel frame, before arrival at the scrap yard can also increase the payout, as mixed metals are often priced at the rate of the least valuable metal present.

Scrapping Process at a Recycling Center or Scrap Yard

Once the lawn mower is prepared, transport it to a recycling center or scrap yard. Contact local facilities beforehand to confirm their acceptance policies for lawn mowers and their current pricing for various metal types. Upon arrival, the facility will typically direct you to a designated area for weighing and inspection.

The weighing process determines the net weight of the scrap metal. A visual inspection will be conducted to assess the cleanliness and type of metals, ensuring contaminants have been removed and different metals are separated if possible. Some facilities may use magnets to distinguish ferrous (magnetic, like steel) from non-ferrous (non-magnetic, like aluminum and copper) metals, as this affects their value.

For payment, most scrap yards will require a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, and may record vehicle information. Payments are often made by check, particularly for larger amounts, though some facilities might offer cash for smaller transactions.