How much is a microwave worth in scrap?

Author: Omari Romaguera  |  Last update: Thursday, October 2, 2025

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.

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.

Are microwaves good for scrapping?

Microwave ovens have no disposal issues. Simply take it to the scrap heap in your town and toss it. If you want some of the parts in it to give to a young scientist, feel free to give whatever he/she wants for experimental use.

What appliances are worth the most to scrap?

Water heaters and other appliances that use plumbing for operation are especially worthy of collecting for scrap metal purposes. These types of appliances tend to feature valuable components that are in high demand, such as copper pipes and copper wiring.

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 a Microwave FAST and SAFE! - Make More Money In Less Time!

How much money can you get for scrapping a microwave?

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.

How do I dispose of an 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 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.

What pays the most at a scrapyard?

COPPER. Copper is among the most valuable metals for most scrappers. Pound for pound, it is worth more than most other common metals and is the king of non-ferrous metals. Not all copper products are worth the same, though, and the price of copper can change dramatically over time compared to other metals.

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.

What can I do with a broken 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 is the most expensive part of a microwave?

The magnetron and the transformer are typically the most expensive parts of a microwave. Replacing a magnetron can cost anywhere between $100 and $200, depending on the make and model of the microwave, and replacing a transformer costs between $100 and $300.

Do scrap collectors take microwaves?

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.

What are the best things to scrap?

Some of the most profitable items to scrap include aluminum and aluminum cans, copper wiring and tubing, brass, iron, stainless steel, lead, platinum jewelry, used appliances, old tools, computer parts, junk cars or car parts, car batteries, ballasts, nickel, electric motors, bottles, ink cartridges, clothes, cast iron ...

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.

What is the most profitable appliance to scrap?

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.

What electronics have the most gold in them?

Among all home devices, computers and televisions typically contain the most gold. Gold is also found in the circuit boards of earlier generations of cameras, radios, and media players.

Why do scrap yards pay so little?

The Cost of Processing: It's Not Free Money

Scrap yards don't just buy your metal and leave it at that. They have to sort it, process it, and prepare it for resale to manufacturers. These operating costs impact how much they're willing to shell out per pound or ton.

What brings the most money at scrap yard?

10 Most Valuable Scrap Metals for High Profitability
  • Aluminum. Aluminum is lightweight, versatile, and widely used in soda cans, car parts, window frames, cookware, and electronics. ...
  • Copper. ...
  • Brass. ...
  • Lead. ...
  • Stainless Steel. ...
  • Platinum Jewelry. ...
  • Used Appliances. ...
  • Old Tools.

What has no scrap value?

No Scrap Value: Sometimes, assets are considered to have no scrap value, meaning that they are deemed to be worthless at the end of their useful life. In such cases, the entire cost of the asset is depreciated over its useful life.

Can you take appliances to scrap yard?

Scrapping miscellaneous items like large household appliances can be a great way to earn extra cash while contributing to the environment. However, before you take your old appliances to the scrap yard, it's important to prepare them for recycling properly.

Why we don't throw out old microwaves?

Before you toss out your non-working or old microwave, consider that many microwaves and appliances are considered electronic waste or e-waste. There is a proper way to recycle microwave ovens and other e-waste that have reached the end of their useful life cycle.

Where can I leave my old microwave?

This should be brought to a WEEE dropoff recycling point or Civic Amenity Site, check the waste services locator on this site. Why? When you recycle anything with a plug or a battery you are helping to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill.

What happens when a microwave gets old?

As a magnetron ages the emitted waveform becomes less pure and “splashy". This makes it less efficient. In Radar terms a splashy magnetron has to be replaced immediately For cooking purposes the chicken will still get cooked but maybe not as quickly.

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