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Large Appliance Recycling: Do’s & Don’ts You Need to Know

Friday, September 26, 2025

The Do’s and Don’ts of Large Appliance Recycling

At Large Appliance Recycling by MARR, we know getting rid of an old fridge, stove, or washing machine isn’t as simple as dragging it to the curb. We see too many appliances end up in landfills or dumped illegally when they could have been recycled properly (and for free!). Here’s what to do and what not to do when your large appliance reaches the end of its life.

The Do's of Large Appliance Recycling

Do Use a Certified Recycling Facility

Large appliances, such as fridges, stoves, and washing machines, need to be recycled properly. Look for certified recycling facilities in your area that can handle the appliance safely and in accordance with environmental regulations. These facilities know how to remove hazardous materials (like refrigerants), recover valuable metals, and recycle the parts responsibly.

If you're in BC, Large Appliance Recycling has FREE drop-off collection sites where you can bring your end-of-life large appliances.

Do Check Your City’s Disposal Programs

Many municipalities offer free large item pick-up programs, some include large appliances. Before placing your appliance at the curb, check whether it’s accepted by your local program. Be sure to schedule an appointment (if required) and follow all guidelines. This might include specific placement instructions or preparation steps to ensure safe and legal pickup.

In BC, the following municipalities offer free appliance pick-up:

Do Plan Ahead for Moving the Appliance

Large appliances are heavy, awkward, and not easy to move on your own. Trying to do it yourself can lead to injury or damage.

If you’re using a large item pick-up program, make sure you have a way to move the appliance to the curb safely. You may be able to:

  • Ask a friend or neighbour for help
  • Use a dolly or hand truck
  • Lay down moving blankets or sliders

If that’s not realistic, consider hiring a professional removal service. Many companies will come to your home and deliver it directly to a certified Large Appliance Recycling drop-off location.

Either way, planning ahead can save your back and make sure your old appliance ends up where it belongs.

Do Donate if the Appliance Still Works

If your appliance is still in good shape, consider donating it and giving it a second life. Some charities and non-profits accept working appliances and ensure they go to families in need instead of the landfill. Some charities have specific donation guidelines, such as:

  • Appliance must be clean and in working condition
  • Gas appliances may not be accepted
  • Appliance must be seven years old or newer

Requirements can vary, so always check with the organization first to confirm what they’ll accept. In BC, Habitat for Humanity is the only organization that accepts large appliance donations.

Do Ask About Retailer Take-Back Programs

When buying a new appliance, ask the retailer if they offer a take-back or haul-away program. Many do, and it’s one of the easiest ways to ensure your old appliance is removed and recycled responsibly. Usually, the delivery team will install your new appliance and take the old one with them, saving you time and effort.

The Don'ts of Large Appliance Disposal

Don’t Dump Appliances

Leaving appliances in alleys or on the curb without proper pickup arrangements is illegal and harmful to the environment. Even dropping your appliance off at a landfill that is not part of a recycling program isn’t recommended. You’ll likely have to pay a disposal fee, and worse, hazardous materials like ozone-depleting substances can leak into the environment. Plus, valuable metals will go unrecycled.

Don’t Attempt to Disassemble It Yourself

Large appliances can contain hazardous materials, such as refrigerants in fridges, freezers, and air conditioning units. Attempting to dismantle these appliances without proper training can be dangerous. It's best to leave this task to professionals with the necessary equipment and expertise.

Don’t Wait Until It’s a Safety Hazard

A broken or unused appliance sitting around can become a hazard, especially in homes with kids or pets. Plan ahead for proper removal and recycling as soon as you know you’re done with it.

Where to Recycle Old Appliances

At Large Appliance Recycling by MARR, we make it easy to recycle with over 200 locations across the province. Simply enter your postal code on our drop-off locator tool to find the nearest free and certified site. We accept:

Large appliance recycling doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you’re upgrading to energy-efficient appliances or finally parting with that old washer in the garage, let’s make sure it ends up in the right place.

Ready to recycle?
Find a location now.

To learn more about what and how we recycle, visit LargeApplianceRecycling.ca

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