Do scrap yards take old microwaves?

Author: Jadon Gutkowski  |  Last update: Thursday, July 3, 2025

Microwaves can be recycled with your electronics OR with your scrap metal. If you choose to put your microwaves with your scrap metal, CAPACITORS MUST BE REMOVED. According to NRRA's metal vendor, in addition to environmental concerns, capacitors can store energy and are fire hazards in scrap piles and dumpsters.

How much is a microwave worth in scrap?

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.

Will a scrap yard take a microwave?

Every scrap yard is different, but many do accept common household appliances such as refrigerators or microwaves. If you have an old appliance and you're not sure what to do with it, contact your local scrap yard.

Can you scrap microwaves for cash?

Old microwaves will have plenty of valuable copper wires, and old appliances such as kettles, blenders and coffee makers are also a good bet. You can also sell old stove tops for scrap if you're replacing them.

Can I get money for my old microwave?

Sell the appliance to a local buyer online. The average used microwave sells for $25 but the return can be up to $100 for nicer models. Start a listing with one of these popular sites: eBay.

Scrapping Microwave Transformers | Unbelievable Money & Fast!

How can I get rid of my old microwave?

In California, for example, the only legal way to dispose of it is to go through a microwave recycling facility or retailer take-back program.

What stores take old microwaves?

Retail Store Programs: Many major retailers like Best Buy, Staples, and Office Depot have in-store electronics recycling programs that may accept old microwaves, though policies can vary by location 5 7.

How much do pawn shops pay for microwaves?

If your microwave is in good condition, you can expect between $5-$25.

Does Best Buy recycle old microwaves?

We take all kinds of tech for recycling, no matter how old, how big or where you bought it.

Do scrap yards take refrigerators?

Thousands of local scrap metal recyclers can recycle old fridges and freezers. Ask your scrap metal recycler for assurance that your old unit will be properly recycled.

What will scrap yards not take?

Radioactive and hazardous materials should never be recycled to the same standards as metals. That's because if a scrap yard melts any radioactive metal without knowing, it will end up contaminating the rest of the metal, the equipment that is used during the recycling process.

Do recycling men take microwaves?

If you have transport and can lift the appliance safely yourself then taking your unwanted microwave to your nearest waste and recycling centre is an option.

What appliances are good to scrap?

The kitchen is one of the best places to find recyclable appliances in a home. Some of the most common kitchen appliances that can be sold for their value in scrap metal include ovens, refrigerators, microwaves, toasters, metal sinks, faucets, and much more!

Why do scrap yards not take microwaves?

According to NRRA's metal vendor, in addition to environmental concerns, capacitors can store energy and are fire hazards in scrap piles and dumpsters.

What valuable metal is in a microwave?

One appliance worth investigating is the microwave oven. While its primary purpose is to heat up leftovers and defrost frozen foods, microwaves also contain a small amount of gold in their circuit boards.

How much is a broken microwave?

If you're trying to determine how much you'll pay to fix this handy kitchen appliance, you've come to the right place. Microwave repair costs depend on the labor and materials required to complete the repair. It costs an average of about $175 to repair a microwave, with a range of about $50 to $500.

How do I dispose of an old microwave?

As an e-waste item, microwaves cannot be placed in your garbage because they are made with toxic materials and can leach dangerous chemicals into the environment. Dispose of microwaves with e-waste.

Does Best Buy haul away old appliances for free?

Haul-Away for major appliances.

We'll haul away and recycle one major appliance (see list below) for $59.99 when we deliver a new replacement product. If you prefer, we can move your old appliance to another location in your home.

Does Walmart recycle electronics?

Walmart partners with Manufacturers Recycling Management (MRM) for recycling used electronics in a number of states. Visit mrmrecycling.com/recycle-now.php to learn how you can recycle your used electronics.

How much will a pawn shop give you for a $1000 item?

Pawnshops only loan you about 25% to 60% of an item's resale value. If you pawn a piece of jewelry worth $1,000, you might get a loan amount of between $250 and $600, but you won't get the value of the item. And, of course, you'll risk forfeiting a $1,000 piece.

What will pawn shops pay most for?

Below is a list of what to pawn for the most cash.
  • Jewelry.
  • Power Tools.
  • Electronics.
  • Musical Instruments.
  • Designer Handbags.
  • Firearms.
  • Antiques & Collectibles.
  • Sporting Goods.

How much of an items value does a pawn shop give you?

At a pawn shop, you leave your property and, in return, the pawnbroker typically lends you approximately 25% to 60% of the item's resale value. The most commonly pawned items are jewelry, electronic and photography equipment, musical instruments, and firearms.

What can I do with an old microwave?

How to Dispose of a Microwave
  • Donate it.
  • Take it to an Electronic Recycling Center.
  • Take it to an Electronic Retail Store.
  • Take it to a Local Appliance or Repair Shop.
  • Manufacturer Take-Back Programs.
  • Your Local Garbage Collector.
  • Sell it Yourself!

What can I recycle at Home Depot?

Customer Recycling Services

The Home Depot takes back rechargeable batteries, CFLs (compact fluorescent light bulbs) and plastic bags. You can find a recycling bin with directions for dropping off these materials near the entrance of your local Home Depot store.

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