How to Remove Appliances Safely
Get Rid of Appliances the Right Way
When something breaks, you throw it out. That’s just the way it works, right? If only it were that simple with everything. As it turns out, some things in this world can’t just get tossed aside when you’re done with them. One of these things is appliances. While it’s true that some appliances are ready for the trash can the moment they go kaput, such as blenders and toasters, other appliances can’t be disposed of through regular means. Refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners are the big culprits. What do these all have in common? Freon, or refrigerant. Yes, removing freon from old appliances has to be done before the appliance can be safely disposed of, and there are many good reasons for that.
The Dangers of Freon
As it turns out, refrigerant isn’t a magic substance that works through miracles. It’s a collection of chemicals, and when it’s not used as intended, there can be horrific side effects. For example, taking a deep breath near refrigerant can cause poisoning, which has been known to destroy the organs of our bodies if not kill us outright. Additionally, not only can refrigerant wreak havoc on our physiology, but it can also have disastrous effects on the environment. Remember that hole in the ozone layer that was being caused by CFCs? Well, refrigerant works in a similar way, and damage to the ozone layer is the fast track to—yep, you guessed it—climate change. How awful is that?
Still wondering how to remove freon from an AC unit or another appliance? Well, handling refrigerant is such a big deal that the people who dispose of it have to be certified by the EPA. Not only that, but the actual disposal process of this refrigerant is pretty intense. According to the EPA in an official document, the refrigerant needs to be “sent to a destruction facility” using either “liquid injection incineration, reactor cracking” or some other form of guideline-abiding annihilation. Let’s make something clear. If something has to have its own destruction facility, it’s pretty intense stuff.
Removing freon from old appliances just involves so much danger and certification. The end-all is that tossing out a fridge, freezer, or AC unit is going to be tough. You may just have to find a different way to get rid of old appliances, then.
Donating or Reselling Appliances in Charlotte, NC
If your appliance is still functional, then there’s a very good chance you can pass it along to its next owner. It’s a great way to prevent needless waste. The best part is, no EPA certifications are required with this method. Try hopping on to your local digital marketplace, such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, and making a listing.
If you’re not confident that you’ll get any bites this way, you could always just donate the appliance. Just as an example, the Habitat for Humanity ReStore sells used appliances. Not only that, but if your appliance is in good enough condition, you may be eligible for a free donation pick up. Just know that it’s going to make someone’s day when they find your used appliance for sale at a bargain price. Borrow that smile and wear it for yourself for a while. It might just make your day, too!
Recycling Appliances in Charlotte, NC
We have more great news for you: there is no shortage of recycling locations in the Research Triangle. In fact, Mecklenburg County provides not one, not two, but four different recycling drop-off centers for local residents to use. Yes, they even take big refrigerant-using appliances such as refrigerators and freezers! So if you have room in your vehicle and a friend who can help you haul the appliance, you’ll be able to recycle it for yourself.
Recycling is a fantastic choice because many of the materials inside an appliance don’t decompose in a landfill. We’re not just talking about the refrigerant. We’re also referring to the metal, plastic, fiberglass, wires, and many other components!
Hiring a Professional Junk Removal Company
When our appliances become broken, they won’t be eligible for donation. When this happens, you have no choice but to dispose of them. However, if you aren’t confident about removing an appliance from your home on your own, then it might be best to ask for professional help. After all, it’s never pretty when you drop an appliance. If it lands on you, it can even result in serious injury.
Fortunately, there are many junk removal companies near you that provide appliance removal, such as Junk Doctors. These companies have large teams that can handle the heavy lifting, and they even have trucks with more than enough room for your appliances. Not only that, but these companies also connect with donation sites, recyclers, and even people certified in removing freon from old appliances. Trust that a junk removal business will dispose of your appliance in the most appropriate and eco-friendly way possible.
