Every year, millions upon millions of major household appliances are replaced. Refrigerators, freezers, stoves, ovens and untold numbers of small appliances are of no further value. This is where effective appliance recycling comes in.
A great number of old appliances are disposed of through community sponsored curbside pickup programs as well as major appliance retailers that pick up the old appliance at the same time they deliver the replacement. A small percentage of those appliances that are being disposed of actually are still in workable condition, they have been put out in lieu of new, energy efficient products. These usable appliances are often disposed of thorough charities and some of them are sold abroad.
Right back on the grid:
Those appliances that are resold or given away to charitable organizations end up back on the power grid where they keep operating inefficiently, consuming far more power than they are worth, this in turn leads to an increased demand for power, much of which is still being generated by burning coal which has a detrimental impact on the environment.
How scrap metal dealers help:
Those that are not fit for reuse are sent for appliance recycling which is normally conducted by dealers in scrap metal, appliances, electronics, etc. These companies salvage useable materials such as precious metals, plastic, glass and steel; this material is recycled and sent back through the system. The same companies are responsible for the safe disposal and recycling of refrigerator, freezer and air conditioner refrigerants.
What can you do to help?
Appliances are only the tip of the iceberg and active appliance recycling is well under control by municipalities, appliance dealers and others. This leaves a lot more than can be done. Your local scrap metal dealer is also set up to collect and recycle aluminum and steel cans, old newspapers and magazines, glass bottles and jars and plastic beverage containers. By doing your part, everyone is making a contribution to a better future. Visit H&C Metals, Inc.
