Refrigerator recycling and refrigerant handling
Refrigerator recycling involves more than the appliance’s metal shell.
Keep the cooling system intact
Refrigerants need appropriate recovery during disposal. Do not cut tubing, vent refrigerant, or remove a compressor to prepare a refrigerator for collection. EPA’s disposal guidance explains how refrigerant recovery fits into the disposal chain.
Ask the receiving provider
- Do you accept this type of refrigerator, including its size and condition?
- Is collection available, or do I need to transport it?
- How are refrigerant and other components handled?
- Is there a processing charge, pickup fee, or access surcharge?
- What preparation and documentation do you require?
Do not assume every recycler accepts every fridge
Household, commercial, built-in, and specialty cooling units can have different acceptance requirements. Give the provider the model details and a photo of the label if they request one. Confirm the correct facility before loading the unit.
Consider reuse before recycling
If the refrigerator works or has a repairable fault, a reuse or repair option may be possible. Disclose its condition. APN does not guarantee that every collected appliance will be recycled at a particular facility; ask the collector about its intended destination.
Compare disposal choices or use the pickup access checklist.
Request pickup availability
Submitting an APN request is free. An independent partner may contact you if they can accept the appliance and location. Availability, timing, access requirements, and any charges must be agreed directly. A submitted request does not book an appointment.
Check pickup availabilityFor an existing request or a data question, contact APN. See our pickup FAQ for more details.