How Much Do Scrap Yards Pay for Appliances?

Scrap yards pay varying amounts for appliances based on current metal pricing, the appliances size, weight, and condition.  Typical payouts for appliances like washing machines, stoves, and dishwashers range from about $10 – $50.

Navigating the World of Appliance Scrap: Washing Machines, Refrigerators, and More

While hiring a junk removal company is an excellent solution to many families in need to handle their appliance removal needs, for many reasons that include time constraints, ability constraints, and more, sometimes the best solution for you and your family is going a different route.  We’re here to show you the answer to some questions that can help you navigate those other solutions.

Do Scrap Yards Take Washing Machines?

Yes, most scrap yards take washing machines. Washing machines are a valuable source of scrap metal, consisting primarily of steel. However, it’s essential to call ahead and confirm with your local scrap yard, as policies and prices can vary greatly from city to city.

What is the Scrap Value of a Washing Machine?

The scrap value of a washing machine greatly depends on current market prices for metals, and the actual weight of the washing machine. On average, you should expect to receive around $10 to $20 for a standard washing machine.

What Scrap Metal is in a Washing Machine?

While washing machines are primarily made of steel, which makes up about 65-90% of the total weight, other metals such as aluminum and copper may also be found in the motor and wiring.

How Much Does a Washing Machine Weigh?

An average washing machine weighs approximately 150 to 200 pounds. The exact weight of your washing machine will vary depending on the size and model, as most newer washing machines tend to weigh much more than in years past.

How Much Money Can You Get from an Old Refrigerator?

For an old refrigerator, you can expect to earn around $15 to $30 at a scrap yard. However, be aware that not all scrap yards will accept refrigerators.  Refrigerators require special handling due to the refrigerants they contain, and many states and counties have regulations that require proper certification to remove the refrigerants.

Why Don’t Scrap Yards Take Fridges?

Many scrap yards refuse refrigerators because they contain hazardous materials like refrigerants (Freon), which require special disposal methods and incur a larger cost and liability to the scrap yard. Always check with your local scrap yard for their specific policies.

How Much Do Scrap Yards Pay for Stoves?

Scrap yards typically pay between $10 and $25 for old stoves, depending on the stove’s size, age, and current metal prices.

How Much is a Microwave Worth in Scrap Metal?

A standard microwave would be worth between $5 and $10 in scrap metal at most locations. The scrap value is primarily in the steel casing found in most microwaves, with some copper in the motor.

Most Valuable Appliances for Scrap – What Pays the Best?

Not all appliances are created equal when it comes to scrap value. Some contain more valuable metals like copper, aluminum, and stainless steel, while others have more low-value steel or non-metal parts that reduce the payout.

Top Appliances Ranked by Scrap Value:

Below are the most common household appliances ranked from highest to lowest scrap payout:

Refrigerators & Freezers

– These are among the best appliances to scrap due to their copper tubing, compressors, and aluminum parts. However, Freon must be properly removed, which some scrap yards require you to do beforehand.

Air Conditioners

– Window and central AC units contain copper coils, compressors, and valuable aluminum parts that fetch a high price. Like refrigerators, they must be properly drained of refrigerant.

Washing Machines & Dryers

– These contain stainless steel drums, copper wiring, and electric motors, making them valuable for scrappers.

Water Heaters

– Made mostly of steel but often containing brass fittings and copper heating elements, which add to their value.

Dishwashers

– Usually lower in value, but some have stainless steel interiors and copper wiring that can boost their scrap price.

Microwaves

– While mostly made of steel, microwaves contain copper wiring, circuit boards, and small transformers, which can be removed and sold separately.

Stoves & Ovens

– Gas and electric ranges are mainly steel, with some copper wiring inside. High-end models with stainless steel will be worth slightly more.

Metals That Yield the Best Payout

• Copper ($$$$) – Found in refrigerator compressors, AC units, electrical wiring, and heating elements. Copper has one of the highest scrap values.
• Aluminum ($$$) – Often found in refrigerator coils, AC units, and some washing machine parts.
• Stainless Steel ($$) – Found in dishwashers, washing machine drums, and some stoves. Higher-grade stainless steel is more valuable.
• Brass ($$) – Commonly found in water heater fittings and plumbing components inside appliances.
• Steel ($) – The most common metal in appliances but also the lowest in value.

Hidden Valuable Components Inside Appliances

Many appliances contain smaller high-value parts that can be removed before scrapping for a better payout:

• Compressors (Refrigerators, Freezers, AC units) → Contain copper and aluminum inside.
• Copper Wiring (Found in most appliances) → Cut and strip insulated copper wire for a higher price.
• Motors & Transformers (Washing Machines, Dryers, Microwaves) → Contain copper windings.
• Circuit Boards (Microwaves, Dishwashers, High-end Stoves) → May contain gold-plated connectors.

Tip: Before taking an appliance to a scrap yard, remove and sort these valuable components separately for a higher overall payout.

Conclusion:

We hope the answer to these questions gave some insight into junk removal alternatives when it comes to old appliances.  Recycling appliances at scrap yards can be a great way to make some extra cash. Always check with the local scrap yard for the most accurate and current information.