Appliance Scrap Metal Value Guide 2026
Discover the current scrap metal values for appliances and learn how to maximize your profits from recycling refrigerators, washers, dryers, and more.
Table of Contents
Current Appliance Scrap Values (March 2026)
| Appliance Type | Scrap Value Range | Average Weight | Value per Pound |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | $15 - $35 | 200-300 lbs | $0.08 - $0.15 |
| Washing Machine | $12 - $25 | 150-200 lbs | $0.08 - $0.12 |
| Dryer | $8 - $15 | 100-125 lbs | $0.08 - $0.12 |
| Stove/Oven | $6 - $15 | 75-150 lbs | $0.08 - $0.10 |
| Dishwasher | $5 - $12 | 75-100 lbs | $0.07 - $0.12 |
| Water Heater | $8 - $20 | 100-150 lbs | $0.08 - $0.13 |
| Microwave | $2 - $6 | 30-50 lbs | $0.07 - $0.12 |
| Freezer | $10 - $25 | 125-200 lbs | $0.08 - $0.12 |
*Prices vary by location, market conditions, and scrap yard. Updated March 2026.
Scrap Value by Appliance Type
Refrigerators: $15-$35
Refrigerators are among the most valuable appliances for scrap due to their weight and metal content. A typical refrigerator contains:
- Steel: 140-200 lbs (main body, shelves, coils)
- Copper: 3-5 lbs (refrigerant lines, compressor)
- Aluminum: 5-8 lbs (condenser coils, evaporator)
- Brass: 1-2 lbs (valves, fittings)
Tip: Remove the compressor separately — it can be worth $15-25 on its own due to copper content.
Washing Machines: $12-$25
Washers offer good scrap value, especially front-loading models with stainless steel drums. Content breakdown:
- Steel: 120-160 lbs (body, motor housing)
- Stainless Steel Drum: 15-25 lbs (higher-end models)
- Copper: 2-4 lbs (motor windings, wiring)
- Aluminum: 3-5 lbs (motor parts, heat exchanger)
Tip: Stainless steel drums from front-loaders are particularly valuable — remove them for separate sale.
Dryers: $8-$15
Dryers contain less valuable metal than washers but are still profitable. Metal content includes:
- Steel: 80-110 lbs (body, drum, motor housing)
- Copper: 1-3 lbs (motor windings, wiring)
- Aluminum: 2-4 lbs (motor parts, heat exchanger)
Tip: Gas dryers may have brass fittings worth removing separately.
Factors Affecting Scrap Value
Market Conditions
- Steel Prices: Currently $180-220 per ton
- Copper Prices: Currently $3.80-4.20 per pound
- Aluminum Prices: Currently $0.85-1.05 per pound
- Stainless Steel: Currently $0.45-0.65 per pound
Regional Differences
- Urban Areas: Higher prices, more competition
- Rural Areas: Lower prices, fewer buyers
- Industrial Regions: Better rates near steel mills
- Transportation: Distance to scrap yard affects profit
Types of Metal in Appliances
High-Value Metals
Copper ($3.80-4.20/lb)
Refrigerant lines, compressor windings, motor wire
Stainless Steel ($0.45-0.65/lb)
Washer drums, dishwasher tubs, oven interiors
Aluminum ($0.85-1.05/lb)
Condenser coils, motor housings, heat exchangers
Common Metals
Steel ($0.09-0.11/lb)
Main bodies, frames, drums, shelves
Brass ($2.50-3.20/lb)
Valves, fittings, water connections
Cast Iron ($0.08-0.12/lb)
Compressor housings, motor blocks
How to Maximize Scrap Value
Separate Materials
- Remove copper wiring and coils
- Extract stainless steel drums
- Separate aluminum components
- Sort brass fittings and valves
Timing Matters
- Monitor metal commodity prices
- Sell when prices are rising
- Accumulate larger loads for better rates
- Avoid selling during market dips
Choose Right Buyer
- Compare prices from multiple yards
- Find yards that specialize in appliances
- Build relationships for better rates
- Consider transportation costs
Where to Sell Scrap Appliances
Scrap Metal Yards
Advantages:
- Highest prices for pure metals
- Accept separated components
- Professional equipment for processing
- Reliable payment
Requirements:
- Valid ID for all transactions
- Transportation to the yard
- Knowledge of metal grades
- Some yards require business license
Appliance Recyclers
Advantages:
- Accept whole appliances
- Often provide pickup service
- Handle refrigerant disposal
- Less sorting required
Considerations:
- Lower prices than metal yards
- May charge for pickup
- Limited geographic coverage
- Volume requirements
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