How Much Is a Fridge Worth in Scrap Metal?

An old refrigerator, no longer useful for keeping food cold, still holds financial value in its raw, recyclable metal components. This scrap metal value is generally modest and depends on various factors, transforming what might seem like a disposal burden into a small financial return. Understanding these factors can help maximize the return from recycling an old appliance.

Components with Scrap Value

A typical refrigerator is composed of several materials that contribute to its scrap value. The largest portion, by weight, is usually steel, which forms the outer casing, internal framework, and doors. Steel is a ferrous metal, meaning it contains iron, and while abundant, its value per pound is relatively low.

More valuable non-ferrous metals are also present within the appliance. Copper, known for its higher market price, is found in the compressor, motor windings, and the condenser and evaporator coils responsible for the cooling process. Aluminum, another non-ferrous metal, is commonly used in some coils or internal shelves, offering a moderate value. Non-metal components like plastics, glass shelving, and insulation are also present, but these typically reduce the overall net scrap value or require removal before processing.

Factors Determining Scrap Value

The actual amount a scrap yard will pay for an old refrigerator is influenced by several variables. Current market prices for metals, particularly steel, copper, and aluminum, fluctuate daily based on global supply and demand, directly impacting the potential return. These fluctuations mean the potential return for a scrapped fridge can vary significantly over time.

The total weight of the refrigerator is another significant factor, as scrap metal is purchased by weight. A heavier appliance generally contains more metal, leading to a potentially higher payout. The condition of the fridge and the presence of non-metal contaminants also play a role. Scrap yards offer better rates for “clean” metal, meaning materials free from plastics, glass, and insulation, which can reduce the per-pound rate or require additional processing fees. If a refrigerator still contains refrigerant, its value will be significantly reduced, or it may not be accepted at all, due to specialized disposal costs.

Preparing a Fridge for Scrapping

Proper preparation of a refrigerator before scrapping is necessary to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to maximize its financial return. The most important step involves the professional removal of refrigerant gases. Federal regulations, specifically the Clean Air Act, mandate that refrigerants must be recovered by a certified technician before disposal due to their environmental impact.

Scrap yards will not accept refrigerators with intact refrigerant charges or will impose substantial fees for their removal, as they are responsible for ensuring proper recovery. Removing non-metal components such as plastic drawers, shelves, glass, and insulation can improve the appliance’s classification as cleaner scrap metal, leading to a better per-pound rate. General safety precautions, such as unplugging the unit and securing doors, are also advisable during preparation and transport.

Scrapping Your Fridge: The Process

Once a refrigerator is properly prepared, the next step involves taking it to a suitable facility. Begin by locating local metal recycling centers or scrap yards that accept large appliances. Many facilities will accept household appliances like refrigerators, but it is prudent to confirm their specific policies beforehand.

Transporting the appliance to the scrap yard requires careful planning, especially given its size and weight. Once at the facility, the refrigerator will be weighed to determine its gross metal content. The scrap yard will then evaluate the appliance for cleanliness, checking for the removal of non-metal parts and ensuring the refrigerant has been properly handled. Payment is calculated based on the evaluated weight and the prevailing market prices for the contained metals. Most scrap yards offer payment via check or sometimes cash, completing the transaction for your old appliance.