Appliance pickup guide
Water heater pickup & removal
Old water heater removal starts with a qualified installer or plumber, especially when the unit is still connected. Collection is a separate step from draining, disconnection, and replacement.
Check free pickup availabilityFor accepted appliances where a partner is available.
What to include in your request
- Gas, electric, heat-pump, tankless, or storage-tank model; include tank capacity if known.
- Whether a professional has disconnected and drained it, and whether there is leakage or damage.
- Basement or utility-room access, stairs, doorways, and the route to a loading point.
Have a qualified professional prepare the unit
Arrange appropriate professional help for gas, plumbing, electrical, and draining work. Do not assume a pickup partner provides these services. Tell the collector when preparation will be complete and agree on the carrying arrangements before moving a heavy tank.
Start by asking the company installing your replacement whether removal is part of its written quote. If the old unit is already disconnected, compare a local metal recycler, municipal disposal program, or independent pickup offer. Heat-pump units contain refrigerant, so identify that type clearly to the receiving facility.
There is no charge to submit an APN request. An available independent partner may contact you. Confirm acceptance, access, preparation, timing, and any charges before you agree. Response and pickup are not guaranteed.
Check free pickup availabilityNeed help with a request? Contact APN. Read how request information is handled.
If no pickup partner is available
Check your municipal waste program, the retailer delivering a replacement, or a local recycler. For a working appliance, contact a local Habitat ReStore about donation acceptance and collection. Confirm the item, appointment, and fees with the provider before making a trip.
Common questions
Can an old water heater be picked up for free?
A local partner may accept a prepared unit for free collection, depending on type, access, travel, and recycling costs. A request does not guarantee acceptance.
Will the collector drain or disconnect the tank?
That must be arranged separately with an appropriate qualified professional. APN does not include plumbing, gas, or electrical service in a pickup request.
Is a water heater worth money as scrap?
A yard’s quote depends on the accepted material and weight, preparation requirements, and fees. Do not treat a fixed online price as a cash offer for your unit.