Appliance Recycling

Appliance recycling is where we began nearly 25 years ago. Since then we have expanded to include many other services, but still take pride in being one of central Minnesota’s most experienced appliance recycler. In an effort to clean up the environment and conserve space in landfills Minnesota law requires all major appliances to be recycled. Hazardous materials or components within major appliances must be removed and properly recycled or disposed of before the appliance is scrapped. The metal portions of major appliances must be recycled or reused.

 When processing appliances, the wastes generated may be recyclable metals, industrial solid waste, electronic waste, hazardous waste or a subset of hazardous waste known as universal waste. Recycling is the most responsible and legal way to dispose of your unwanted appliances. It also helps preserve our natural resources and saves energy. A full explanation of the requirements for appliance recyclers can be found here.

 The US Environmental Protection Agency has identified six major benefits of using scrap instead of virgin materials (iron ore and coal) in making new steel:

•  97% Reduction in mining wastes
• 90% Savings in virgin materials use
• 86% Reduction in air pollution
• 76% Reduction in water pollution
• 74% Savings in energy
• 40% Reduction in water use

Hazardous Waste In Appliances

 Refrigerants (CFCs) - are hydrochlorofluorocarbons which are chemicals known to promote global warming and contribute to the destruction of the ozone layer. They are in most refrigerators, air conditioners, and de-humidifiers.

 PCB capacitors and ballasts - Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a class of 209 man-made chemicals with varying toxicity, often used as an insulator in electrical equipment.

 Brominated flame retardants - are widely used in plastic cases and cables. Over exposure to bromine can have the same effects as lead or mercury poisoning.

 Mercury - is used in electrical connectors, switches, and thermostats.

 Some facts about appliance recycling. . .

•  It is estimated that 55 million appliances will be removed from service this year.
• 72% of appliances removed from service are recycled.
• Major home appliances make up about 10% of the steel processed by the recycling industry each year.
• Approximately 75% of the typical household appliance is made of steel, America's most recycled material.
• Appliances also contain other recyclable materials, including aluminum, copper, CFC refrigerants and some plastics.
• Older appliances can contain environmentally harmful materials such as mercury and PCBs. These substances must be removed and managed properly before recycling an appliance.

More information about appliance recycling in Minnesota