Junk appliances are generally worth between $ π and $ ππ in scrap metal value, though prices fluctuate based on commodity markets. The exact payout depends on the weight, the type of metal, and whether you take the item to a scrap yard yourself or hire a junk removal service.
Refrigerators and any appliances that use plumbing to operate - like an old rusted water heater - are especially worthy of collecting for scrap. This is because these appliances often have copper components; copper wire and plumbing scrap is valuable and gives you great profit.
For example, refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens often contain thick steel frames, copper wiring, and aluminum components. Even smaller appliances like microwaves, toasters, and blenders contain recyclable metals that can earn you cash. The heavier or more metal-rich the appliance, the more you can make from it.
How much is a refrigerator worth in scrap? A typical refrigerator weighs 150-250 lbs and contains mostly steel. At current scrap prices, expect $8-20 for the steel alone. However, the compressor contains copper worth $3-8 extra, and if you separate the copper tubing, you can add another $2-5.
To make $100 from scrap aluminum, you need anywhere from 55 to 200 pounds, depending on your local scrap yardβs payout rate.
Copper is the leading choice in scrap metal values today. In early 2026, current prices for premium grades have surged well past $4 per pound, making it highly lucrative for waste management operations.
Sell to Scrap Buyers
A scrap dealer, processor or recycler like Cohen can buy your old appliances at a scrap recycling center near you. Pricing changes at least monthly, based on the market values of metals, so call ahead and ask what they are paying for mixed iron if you'd like an estimate.
Yes, you can absolutely scrap a microwave for money. A whole, intact microwave usually nets between $2 and $6 as scrap steel, but stripping it down to its internal components can yield anywhere from $10 to $20+ depending on metal prices.
Many folks go by the 50-50 rule. If the appliance has reached 50 percent of its expected life and it costs more than 50 percent of the cost of new, buy a new one. Oven failures can start with underperformance. For example, a family favorite just doesn't come out like it used to.
Top Electronics with the Most Gold Content
Desktop and Laptop Computers: Motherboards, CPUs, and RAM modules in older computers (especially pre-2000s) contain significant amounts of gold. A typical desktop computer can have up to 0.2 grams of gold, primarily in connectors and circuit boards.
Precious metals (like gold, silver, and platinum) are the highest-paying scrap materials. Among widely handled industrial base metals, copper is the most lucrative.
I only get $100 per ton for appliances right now so usually $5 each. It's not too bad though because I can just flip em into the bed of my truck, cut the wires off, and then dump em at the yard. Easy $20 if you have a full load of them. Take the cord and scrap it separately?
You can sell your old refrigerators directly to the scrap yard, and you can get about $15 to $50 per unit, depending on their weight, condition, and local market price.
Air conditioners and heat pumps contain the most copper of any household appliances. A standard residential unit contains between 4 kg and 23 kg (999 to 50 lbs) of copper, primarily located in the condenser, evaporator coils, and compressor motors.
Small appliances with the shortest lifespan typically include kitchen appliances like toasters, blenders, and coffee makers. These tend to have more limited warranties and are generally less durable compared to larger household appliances like refrigerators or washing machines.
Multiply the age of the appliance by the replacement cash value. Multiply this product with the depreciation rate to obtain the depreciated value of appliances. Subtract the depreciation value from the replacement cash value to find out the actual cash value of the appliance.
Yes, major appliance prices are definitely going up. Driven by lingering metal tariffs, rising manufacturing costs, and supply chain disruptions, manufacturers are pushing through significant hikes.
Washing Machines & Dishwashers
What's inside: Steel, copper (motors and wires), stainless steel drums. Estimated value: Β£5βΒ£15 per unit, depending on weight and parts. Top tip: Remove the motor and wiring to boost value, or weigh in whole for ease.
Talk to Your Local Scrap Metal Recycler.
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.
Old washing machines are generally worth very little, usually just $10 to $25 in scrap metal value, or slightly more if you strip out the copper motor and stainless steel tub. However, working antiques or easily repairable models can fetch anywhere from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.
Kitchen Appliances
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!
Can you throw an old TV in a dumpster? No, in most areas it's illegal to throw an old TV in a dumpster. The best way to dispose of your old TV is to recycle or donate it.
Getting rid of a flat-screen TV can be done by donating or selling working units via platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, or by recycling broken ones at Best Buy (often $49-$199), local electronics recycling centers, or municipal e-waste events. Avoid regular trash disposal, as components can harm the environment.