Get Cash for Recycling Old Appliances, Fridges in 22 Cities and States

Do you support keeping the air clean and the waters free of pollution?

Do you support keeping the planet healthy? If so, you will definitely want to consider recycling old appliances like a partially broken refrigerator.

The best part of recycling some kitchen items is that it can actually put more cash in your pocket! You can get cash for old appliances with as much as $50 for an old or broken fridge.

Who buys old appliances, you may ask?

There are energy companies around the country that can offer you a rebate for recycling old refrigerators.

These businesses can come pick up your broken fridge or freezer for free and even give you cash in return.

If you’re excited to learn that non-working refrigerator recycling can get you more money in your wallet, then read on about states and cities in the US that offer cash back programs for recycling old appliances.

How Does Refrigerator Recycling Work?

Like any rebate program, you’ll need to stick to specific guidelines with your appliances to make sure you get paid for them.

And that’s exactly what these programs are: Rebate programs.

You’ll essentially get a rebate for being a responsible appliance owner who opts for safe, non-hazardous methods of getting rid of your old appliances.

Many appliances contain chemicals and materials that, if they were simply thrown away, could harm the environment.

Not only that, but the metals and plastics that make up the appliances can often be recycled to get turned into something else, which saves our precious resources.

Socially responsible companies, therefore, are willing to pay customers to recycle these appliances so that they can reuse the materials and discard of anything hazardous by using the proper methods.

Some states also have their own programs outside of those offered by appliance manufacturers or energy companies that reward citizens of that state for being eco-friendly and recycling their appliances.

So, how does it all work?

Some programs will only take refrigerators, which use chemicals to keep everything cool.

Most of these programs will take fridges between 10 and 30 cubic feet large and will pay customers $50 for them.

Other programs might pay more or less, but $50 is about average.

Some will also accept other appliances, like air conditioners, humidifiers, microwaves, washers, dryers, and ovens.

Your appliances will go to a partnered recycling center where everything will get disposed of carefully and safely and the materials will likely get turned into scrap or recycled.

How to Get Cash for Old Appliances at These State and City Programs

Take a look at the list below to see what energy companies and what cities or states are offering recycling programs for old appliances.

You can get cold, hard cash for old freezers or refrigerators through these programs.

Southern States and Cities that Offer Money for Old Fridges

Arizona and APS

The company APS in Arizona can offer you money for an old fridge or other old kitchen appliances. Check out the savings you can make on your energy costs as well as the rebate you can get through the company. Click here to learn more!

New Mexico and PNM

The state of New Mexico has an energy company called PNM that can pay you $50 for recycling an old refrigerator. In fact, you can schedule a free pickup of your fridge from PNM.

The company can pick up your fridge, leave you with a receipt, and ensure you get a rebate check in the mail for $50. You may need to wait as much as six weeks before getting the check in the mail.

North Carolina

In North Carolina, there’s a great company called Duke Energy that will pay you as much as $50 to recycle your old fridge and kitchen freezer appliances.

Duke Energy picks up your refrigerator for free, recycles it for parts, and sends you a check for $50. Check out its website for more info!

South Carolina

In South Carolina, Duke Energy also offers similar services. Give them a call to pick up your fridge and recycle it for parts. You can get at least $50 for the fridge.

Kentucky

In Kentucky, the company PPL Corporation can pay you $50 for recycling an old and broken refrigerator. For every appliance you recycle, you can get paid through the Fridge and Freezer Recycling Program.

San Antonio, Texas

If you live in San Antonio, you can make even more money for recycling a broken refrigerator.

CPS Energy is one company that offers as much as $65 for your fridge. You’ll get these fridges picked up for free and hauled away without any fees on your part.

Once your fridge is processed and recycled, your energy account will be credited for the $65.

Middle America States with Refrigerator Recycling for Cash Programs

Missouri

If you live in the state of Missouri, you can get $50 from the company Ameren for recycling your old refrigerator. The company picks up your old fridge for free and recycles models from 2001 or older.

Illinois

In Illinois, the same company Ameren runs the program ActOnEnergy, which also ensures you get paid $50 for recycling a broken or old fridge. They also take freezers!

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, you won’t make as much but still a good amount for recycling your old freezer or fridge. The business Focus on Energy gives $40 in cash to customers residing in Wisconsin looking to recycle these old appliances.

Michigan

Efficiency United helps people in Michigan with their old appliances. If you have a refrigerator that needs recycling in Michigan, Efficiency United will pick it up and haul it away for free while providing you with a $50 check.

Indiana

Do you have a working refrigerator you want to get rid of? Are you looking for a newer and better version? Then leave your working fridge with Duke Energy.

Duke Energy offers a $50 rebate for a working freezer or refrigerator.

Indiana and Michigan

Customers in Indiana and Michigan who use Indiana Michigan Power, a sub-company of AEP, can get $40 when they choose to recycle their appliances.

Ohio and Duke Energy

The company Duke Energy ensures you get $30 for your old fridge. It’s a bit less than other states, but if you live in Ohio, you can get at least $30 from this company.

Ohio/Indiana

The company Vectren Corporation offers rebates for old appliances in both Ohio and Indiana. The business can pay $30 for every kitchen appliance that qualifies by their standards.

The appliance can also be picked up for free!

Some Other States, Cities Where You Can Get Cash for Old Appliances

An Important Note About the Southern California Edison Program

We’ve had a few people ask us about the Southern California Edison Program (also known as SoCal Edison refrigerator pick up).

It was a very popular program for Southern California residents to use to get $50 back for their Edison appliances they wanted to recycle.

However, if you’ve Googled SCE refrigerator recycling 2020, you’re likely coming up with nothing.

That’s because the program hasn’t been in existence since 2016.

There’s good news, though: You might still be able to get something out of your used refrigerator when you recycle it if you live near a SA Recycling center, many of which are scattered throughout Southern California.

The company will recycle your appliance for you and make a payment to you for the scrap metal.

You can even have them take air conditioners, microwaves, washers, and dryers and get paid for those too.

Call the company first if you have any questions about the process before taking in your appliance.

Imperial, California

The organization Imperial Irrigation District (IID) can pick up your used refrigerator and freezer while giving you $50 in return. The fridge will be picked up and recycled free of charge.

The fridge must be in working order and you must be a residential electric customer of IID. There is a limit of two appliances per household.

You will get a $50 check mailed to you within eight to ten weeks after your fridge is picked up from your house.

Oregon

Depending on the size and functionality of your old, used refrigerator, you can get two separate payments from the company Energy Trust of Oregon.

This company offers either $20 or $40 for an old refrigerator for residents in Oregon. It’s a simple and great way to make sure your old appliances are recycled!

New York City

For old appliances like fridges or freezers, New York City residents can work with the business Con Edison to recycle these items.

Con Edison specialists will come out to remove and recycle your appliances while giving you a check for $50.

The company also offers rebates for washing machines, room air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and dishwashers.

You can make anywhere from $20 to $50 for each of these appliances.

New Jersey

As part of New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program, residents can get $50 for any fridge or freezer they want to recycle, plus they’ll get them hauled off for free.

Recently, the program even began allowing smaller appliances, like air conditioners, for a $25 incentive.

However, you must include that pickup in the same pickup as your other appliances to qualify for the incentive.

You can schedule your appointment conveniently online!

Long Island

If you live out on Long Island, you’ll need to reach out to Public Service Enterprise Group.

This company will pick up your old fridges as long as they are in working order.

If you have an old freezer, that can also be recycled at Public Service Enterprise Group. Best of all, they’ll remove your fridges for free and give you a $50 check in return!

Fort Collins, Colorado

If you live in Fort Collins, Colorado and you need to recycle an old fridge, you’re one lucky man or woman!

This is because the City of Fort Collins partnered with Efficiency Works and Sears Appliance to help you save as much as $120 on a new Kenmore ENERGY STAR®refrigerator, model # 60602.

And what will you do with your old fridge or freezer? You will be able to recycle it through Fort Collins Utilities and get a $35 credit for your bill.

You can schedule a pickup and your old refrigerator will be hauled away for free.

Massachusetts

Is your freezer or refrigerator getting old and you want to get a new one? Well then consider recycling that fridge through Mass Save, which is sponsored by Cape Light Compact, Eversource, National Grid, and Unitil.

You’ll be able to get a $50 rebate as well as free pickup and removal.

Maryland

The EmPOWER Maryland organization partners with several energy companies to offer incentives for Maryland residents, like helping them install low-cost energy-saving features in their homes.

One of the incentives is an appliance recycling program where you can get paid to help out the environment by getting rid of your old appliances.

Browse the website to see if your power company or appliance manufacturer is partnered with EmPOWER Maryland and follow the link to learn more about the program and how to get started.

Company Programs

The following programs are ones that companies, like energy or appliance manufacturing companies, offer for their customers.

We listed these separately because these companies may cover several different states and regions rather than just one.

AEP Appliance Recycling Program

If you’re a residential customer of AEP’s, you might be able to get your old appliance recycled by calling the company and scheduling a pickup at no cost to you.

Additionally, you’ll receive $50 for recycling it!

The company will then recycle your appliance using regulations set in place by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Appalachian Power

Appalachian Power customers can earn $50 by getting rid of their freezer or fridge sitting in the basement and not getting used.

You can schedule an appointment by filling out an online form.

Delmarva Power

Delmarva Power is a sub-company of Exelon that will also pay customers $50 for recycling their old appliances.

As a bonus, you can even get $25 if you recycle your dehumidifier or air conditioner at the same time you recycle your other appliance.

The company has a number you can call to schedule a pickup, or you can schedule online.

Eversource Energy

Customers of Eversource Energy can call the company to come pick up their fridge or freezer for free and receive a $50 incentive for their contribution.

The company also offers $50 for recycling dryers that are ENERGY STAR certified!

FirstEnergy

FirstEnergy and its sub-companies will pay its customers $50 to get rid of their freezers or refrigerators that they no longer need.

You can also get an extra $25 for each additional fridge, freezer, aid conditioner, or humidifier.

The appliances must be operating at the time of pickup and all refrigerators must be no larger than 30 cubic feet.

You’ll receive your payment in 4 to 6 weeks after the company picks up your appliances.

National Grid

This company also has a recycling program that pays customers $50 for refrigerators and freezers.

It’ll take refrigerators up to 30 cubic feet in size.

Pepco

Pepco is another sub-company of Exelon and it works the same way as Delmarva Power’s program does.

Turn in your old appliance and get $50, and an extra $25 for recycling another one.

SMUD

SMUD is an energy company serving Sacramento and Placer counties in California.

It’s also one of the best-paying companies in terms of incentives for recycling old freezers and refrigerators!

This company offers $75 for these appliances and you can recycle up to two of them per household.

You’ll get your rebate check within 4 to 6 weeks after the pickup.

The Energy Cooperative

Residential customers of The Energy Cooperative are in for a real treat until mid-2020, when the company will be giving away not $50, but $100 to people who recycle their old refrigerators!

That’s double what most companies pay, so it’s a great time to take advantage of the program.

It seems that, once the deal is over, the incentive will revert back to the usual $50, which is still great news for customers.

You’ll need to wait up to 8 weeks for your rebate check, unfortunately, and you’ll need to also set up the actual recycling process because the company doesn’t take care of that.

Instead, it just hands out the rebate checks.

What to Do If Your State Wasn’t Listed

If you haven’t seen your city or state on this list, you aren’t out of luck! Do you know the name of your local energy company?

Search for your city’s power company online and look through their website. Look at their site specifically for rebates and incentives.

If you forget the name of your local power company, search for your city’s name and power company through Google.

You can also contact the maker of your appliance.

Several of them have their own programs that reward customers for recycling their appliances to turn into other things, or even new appliances.

You can typically look on the back of your freezer or fridge to see the manufacturer and get contact information.

Or, if your appliance is really old, you can search for updated contact information on the web.

You can also search the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Responsible Appliance Disposal Program (RAD) website.

RAD is a program that works with utility companies and appliance manufacturers to help customers get rid of their old appliances in a safe manner.

Most partners with the program are willing to pay incentives to customers for safely recycling their refrigeration appliances.

The website has a helpful list of partners that you can browse to find the companies and manufacturers you use and purchase from that might have a recycling program.

There are also some state-specific program partners involved in the RAD program, so you might still find one for your state.

Other Ways to Make Money with Your Old Fridge

If nothing else is working for you and you still really want to get some cash out of your fridge, then these ideas might help you out:

Sell it at a Yard Sale

Host a yard sale to try to get rid of bigger items you have that might be difficult to sell elsewhere.

Avid yard sale enthusiasts usually know to come with a pickup truck so that they can easily haul things away that they found at yard sales.

You could easily get $50 or more from your old fridge, which is just as good as using a recycling program.

Sell it Using Craigslist or Facebook

Both Craigslist and Facebook are helpful for finding local buyers for things you can’t easily sell online, like appliances.

You can always list your appliances for free and try to see if anyone’s interested on either site.

Facebook Marketplace can be especially helpful for getting a lot of people to see your refrigerator because you can share the listing on your profile or in Facebook groups.

Sell it for Scrap Metal

There are places – usually recycling centers – that will pay you for scrap metal.

When all else fails, you could go this route!

Call recycling centers in your area to see if they’re interested in taking your fridge and paying you for the scrap metal instead of the appliance itself.

You can use the Earth911 website to find recycling centers near you that deal with scrap metal as part of their business.

Sell it for Parts

Maybe no one wants your fridge but someone might be interested in its working parts to repair another fridge.

If you know what you’re doing, you can take apart the appliance and sell it for parts instead.

Again, Facebook or Craigslist will work well for this, and your local newspaper might even be a viable option.

Ask Thrift Stores in the Area

Some local thrift stores might be interested in buying your fridge from you, although it likely won’t be for much if you do find one that’s willing to pay.

Still, an extra $10 or $20 is better than nothing.

Donate it and Get a Tax Break

Have you exhausted all the other paying options?

No problem – there’s always donation.

No, donating your appliance won’t directly give you cash.

But if you decide to donate it to help someone else by giving it to Goodwill or another helpful organization, you could still qualify for a tax break from Uncle Sam.

Keep your donation receipt and remember to write it off on your taxes for the year!

Trade-In or Sell to Appliance Retailers

Some appliance retailers offer trade-in programs where you can exchange your old fridge for a discount on a new one.

Alternatively, you can inquire if they are interested in buying your old fridge outright.

Rent it Out

If you have a spare fridge and there’s a demand for temporary refrigeration, consider renting it out.

You can advertise your fridge for rent on platforms like Airbnb, where people may need extra storage space for events or short-term use.

Repurpose and Resell

Get creative and repurpose your old fridge into something useful or decorative.

For example, you can turn it into a unique storage cabinet, a planter, or even a functional bookshelf.

Once transformed, you can sell it as a unique and upcycled piece.

Read More: Top 4 Ways to Recycle Empty Ink Cartridges for Cash (and 3 Ways to Save on New Ones!)

Don’t Forget to Ask about Other Appliances that can be Recycled

Now that you know what companies are available to take away your fridge for free and give you a nice rebate, don’t forget to ask these same organizations whether they can take care of other kitchen appliances.

Many of these same places can recycle an old stove, dishwasher, or washer/dryer. Instead of merely throwing away these items, you could make more money for recycling the appliances.

Did you get a rebate from recycling your old kitchen appliances? How did it go? Let me know by commenting below!

 

Related Posts:

• Earn $900 a Week Recycling Old Tires for Cash! Everything You Need to Know.
• 4 Easy Steps to Help You Get Extra Money for Paper Recycling
• 29 Places to Get Free Old Newspapers in 2023
• 5 Snack Ideas to Get You Through Your Work-from-Home Day
• 17 Best Places to Recycle Old Car Batteries for Cash