How Much Is a Dryer Worth at a Scrap Yard?
Learn how to responsibly recycle your old dryer for scrap, understanding its potential value and the straightforward process.
An old dryer can find a second life through scrap metal recycling. Scrapping an appliance involves disassembling it to recover valuable raw materials, primarily metals. This process offers a responsible way to dispose of old, non-functional appliances, potentially earning a small amount of money. It also helps divert bulky waste from landfills and supports material reuse. This guide provides practical information on preparing and scrapping a dryer.
Understanding Dryer Materials and Value Determination
Dryers contain materials valuable in the scrap market, primarily metals. The outer casing and drum are typically steel, classified as “light iron” by scrap yards. More valuable non-ferrous metals are present in smaller quantities. Copper is found in the power cord, internal wiring, and motor windings. Some dryers may also contain aluminum in components like the control panel or motor parts, though motors are increasingly aluminum-wound rather than copper-wound.
The potential value of a scrapped dryer ties directly to the weight and type of recovered metals. Scrap metal prices fluctuate daily based on global market demand, making an exact payout difficult to predict. While copper and aluminum yield higher prices per pound, steel’s volume often constitutes the majority of the weight. A typical dryer weighs between 100 to 150 pounds, and most scrap yards classify an entire dryer as light iron, with payouts often ranging from $5 to $20, depending on current market rates. Dismantling the dryer to separate higher-value metals like copper and aluminum can increase the total return, but this requires additional time and effort.
Preparing Your Dryer for Scrap
Before transporting a dryer to a scrap yard, proper preparation is important for safety and maximizing its scrap value. Safety is the priority when handling appliances. For electrical dryers, unplug the unit from its power source. For gas dryers, turn off and disconnect the gas supply line.
After disconnecting power, remove non-metallic components that scrap yards typically do not accept or that reduce value. This includes plastic knobs, rubber seals, glass windows, and lint traps. These non-metal parts add unnecessary weight and can result in a lower payout or rejection. Removing them streamlines the drop-off process and focuses on valuable metal content.
Engaging with a Scrap Yard
The final step involves contacting a local scrap metal recycling facility. Locate scrap yards in your area through online searches. Contact them beforehand to confirm they accept large appliances like dryers. Inquire about any specific requirements, such as whether the dryer needs to be partially dismantled or if non-metal parts must be removed prior to arrival.
During this initial contact, also ask about their current pricing for “light iron” or mixed metals, as prices can vary between facilities and change frequently. Confirm their hours of operation and any identification requirements for sellers. Upon arrival at the scrap yard, the dryer will be weighed on a large scale. The facility will verify the contents, and payment is then processed, often via check, cash, or direct deposit, depending on the scrap yard’s policies.