Can You Scrap a Refrigerator in Columbus, OH?

Meet the Author

Ryan Dailey

Ryan Dailey and Cori Weatherington are the driving forces behind Master Junkers, a professional and dependable junk removal company based in Powell, Ohio. With over 30 years of combined experience in the residential and commercial service industry, Ryan and Cori have a deep understanding of the importance of providing outstanding customer service. Ryan spent 15 years working in the service industry, where he developed a passion for taking care of his customers and providing them with personalized, high-quality service. Similarly, Cori, who has spent the last 16 years working as a hair stylist, has honed her skills in building relationships and connecting with clients. Now, the two of them are eager to bring this unique blend of experience and customer-centric approach to the junk removal industry. About The Junk Removal Masters At Master Junkers, we believe that the environment and our communities play an important role in the way we do business. That’s why we are committed to making a positive impact in Powell and the surrounding areas. We understand that many of the items we collect still have value and life in them, and we are determined to do our part in reducing waste and helping those in need. We achieve this by donating gently used furniture, clothing, and other household items to local charities, non-profit organizations, and individuals in need. This not only helps our communities, but it also helps protect the environment by reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills. We are proud to be making a positive impact in Powell and the Columbus, Ohio area through our commitment to sustainable practices and community involvement. At Master Junkers, we believe that junk removal is about much more than just getting rid of unwanted items. It’s about making a difference in our community and creating a better world for future generations. So if you are in need of professional and reliable junk removal services in Powell or Columbus, Ohio, look no further than Master Junkers. Contact us today to schedule a pickup and see the difference for yourself!

That old fridge in your garage isn’t cooling anything but your patience. Maybe it finally gave out, or you just upgraded to a more energy-efficient model. So now you’re wondering, can you actually scrap a refrigerator in Columbus and make a few bucks off it?

Short answer: yes, you can. But there’s a right (and legal) way to do it, especially with appliances that contain refrigerants and recyclable metals. In this post, we’ll break down:

What parts of a refrigerator are valuable
Where you can take your old fridge in Columbus
How to safely prep it for scrap
Local recycling laws you need to follow

Let’s dive in and turn that bulky appliance into cold hard cash (the safe and legal way).

Why Scrapping a Refrigerator Makes Sense

Scrapping a fridge isn’t just about tossing it out; it means taking it apart and recycling the valuable parts inside. Most refrigerators are made of ferrous metal, insulation, plastic, and electrical components. When you scrap one, you help reduce landfill waste and can even earn some money depending on the materials recovered.

What’s Inside That’s Worth Scrapping?

Old fridges are full of materials that scrap yards in Columbus will take, including:

Steel and aluminum: Used in the body, doors, and frame
Copper wiring: Found in the motor and electrical coils
Refrigerant gas (like Freon): Needs to be removed and disposed of by a licensed technician due to environmental regulations
Insulation foam: Often contains ozone-depleting substances, which must be handled with care

While you can’t just cut one open and drop the pieces at a scrapyard, many Columbus-area recycling centers and scrap yards will take whole refrigerators as long as they’ve been properly emptied and prepped.

For example, ScrapMonster lists several active scrap metal buyers in the Columbus area that accept refrigerators. Some may pay you for the metal weight, while others may charge a small fee to handle the refrigerant safely.

Why It’s Better Than Dumping

Dumping an old fridge at the curb or landfill isn’t just wasteful; it’s potentially illegal if refrigerants aren’t removed properly. The Ohio EPA recommends recycling household appliances through approved haulers or scrap processors to limit environmental harm.

By scrapping a refrigerator:

You reduce pollutants and greenhouse gases from entering the air or soil
You recover reusable metal and parts, cutting back on raw material mining
You keep bulky waste out of Ohio landfills, which are already under pressure

It’s a win for the planet, and your garage gets a little more breathing room.

What Parts of a Refrigerator Can Be Scrapped?

Not everything in a refrigerator is junk. In fact, many components inside that old fridge are made from materials that recyclers and scrap yards in Columbus will pay for. Knowing what’s valuable can help you separate what’s worth scrapping from what needs proper disposal.

Metals: The Money-Makers

Most refrigerators have a steel shell, copper wiring, and aluminum parts inside. These metals can be separated and scrapped individually:

Steel: Makes up the outer body. Usually low-grade scrap, but still accepted at most local scrap yards.
Copper: Found in the compressor and wiring. This is one of the most valuable parts of a fridge to scrap.
Aluminum: Used in coils, trim, or interior parts. Lightweight, but still pays at the yard.

Compressor: Small but Valuable

The compressor is a sealed unit attached to the back or bottom of the fridge. It contains copper and oil. Scrap yards often pay more for compressors because of the copper content, but they must be drained of refrigerant and oil first, something most DIYers shouldn’t attempt without proper tools.

Wires and Electrical Components

Refrigerators are full of insulated copper wire, control boards, and plugs. Strip the wires if you want higher rates, or leave them as-is for mixed wire scrap pricing.

What You Can’t Scrap

Some parts of a fridge can’t go to your local scrap yard:

Freon/refrigerant must be removed by a certified tech before you scrap the unit.
Plastic shelves, drawers, and insulation foam usually go to a landfill.
Glass panels must be separated and properly disposed of; not all places take them.

Legal and Safety Rules You Should Know in Columbus, OH

Before you haul that old fridge off to a scrap yard or drop-off site, it’s important to understand the rules. Scrapping a refrigerator isn’t as simple as dragging it to the curb or tossing it in a dumpster, and for good reason.

Federal and Ohio-Specific Appliance Disposal Laws

Refrigerators contain refrigerants (like Freon) and insulation that can harm the environment. That’s why both federal law (per the EPA) and Ohio regulations require that these substances be removed by a certified technician before the unit is scrapped or dumped. It’s illegal and dangerous to cut lines or break apart sealed systems yourself.

According to the Ohio EPA, this step must be handled before taking the fridge to a landfill, transfer station, or scrap metal facility. Most licensed recyclers will not accept a refrigerator unless it’s been properly evacuated of refrigerant.

Local Disposal Options in Franklin County

Columbus residents have a few safe ways to legally get rid of old refrigerators:

Use approved drop-off centers in Franklin County that accept appliances. Some locations may offer free or low-cost recycling.
Schedule an old appliance pickup with a certified hauler who can handle the refrigerant removal and transport for you.
Contact scrap yards ahead of time to ask if they offer on-site refrigerant recovery or require it to be removed beforehand.

You can also check if local events like the SWACO appliance recycling days or energy buyback programs are active in your area.

Don’t Risk Illegal Dumping

Leaving a fridge out by the curb, in an alley, or on vacant property without proper prep is not just frowned upon; it could get you fined. Improper dumping can result in:

EPA violations
Fines from the city or county
Environmental hazards, especially if refrigerants leak or insulation foam is exposed

And let’s be honest, an abandoned fridge is an eyesore and a safety hazard, especially for kids and pets.

If you’re unsure, your safest bet is to call a local junk removal or appliance recycling service in Columbus that handles these steps correctly. That way, you stay compliant and keep things clean.

How Much Can You Earn Scraping a Refrigerator in Columbus?

Scrapping a fridge isn’t going to make you rich, but it can definitely put a little money back in your pocket, especially if you’re already hauling it away.

Scrap Metal Value Breakdown

Most refrigerators weigh between 150 and 250 pounds, and the bulk of that is recyclable steel. You’ll also find copper, aluminum, and sometimes a small amount of brass inside, particularly in the compressor and coils.

In Columbus, scrap yards like Sims Brothers Recycling and Columbus Scrap Materials accept refrigerators for drop-off. According to ScrapMonster listings, steel currently brings in $0.06–$0.09 per pound, while copper averages $2.50–$3.00/lb, depending on the type.

So for a 200-pound fridge, you might earn around:

$10–$15 for the steel body
$5–$15 for the copper in the compressor (if you remove it)
A few bucks for other misc. metals

Energy Company Incentives (Working Fridges Only)

If your fridge is still running, check for utility-backed rebate programs. For example, FirstEnergy’s Ohio appliance recycling program previously offered $50–$75 for working refrigerators and freezers picked up from homes. While that specific offer has ended, similar programs pop up occasionally. You can check FirstEnergy’s site or call AEP Ohio or Columbia Gas to see if they have anything live.

Pickup vs. Drop-Off and Condition Matter

Scrap yards usually don’t offer free pickup unless you have multiple appliances or a large load. So if you’re dropping it off yourself, you’ll likely keep more of the earnings. However:

Damaged or incomplete units (e.g., no compressor) are worth less.
Pickups may cost you or reduce your payout.
Clean, dry, and disconnected units are preferred.

Bottom line? Expect $10–$30 for a non-working fridge, or up to $75 if it still runs and qualifies for a rebate. The real win might be just clearing space and avoiding landfill fees.

Step-by-Step: How to Scrap Your Fridge in Columbus, OH

Scrapping an old refrigerator might sound simple, but to do it legally, safely, and in a way that might even earn you some cash, there are a few steps to follow. Here’s how to get it done right in Columbus:

Step 1: Check the Condition First

Before scrapping, take a moment to see if the fridge still works. If it’s in good shape, consider donating it to a local charity or shelter. Places like Habitat for Humanity ReStore may accept working appliances.

If it doesn’t run or is falling apart, scrapping is likely the best option.

Step 2: Choose Your Route

You’ve got two main options:

DIY Drop-Off: You can haul it yourself to a scrap yard or recycling center that accepts appliances.
Hire a Service: Don’t want the hassle? A local junk removal company like Master Junkers can handle the heavy lifting, proper disposal, and EPA compliance for you.

Step 3: Remove Refrigerants Safely

Old fridges contain refrigerants like Freon, which are harmful to the environment and must be removed by a certified professional. According to Ohio EPA regulations, it’s illegal to cut up or crush a fridge without removing this first.

If you go the DIY route, call a licensed HVAC tech to handle this. If you hire Master Junkers, we take care of this as part of our service.

Step 4: Get It to the Right Place

Once the refrigerant is removed, take the fridge to a local scrap yard like Columbus Scrap Materials Inc. or Sims Brothers Recycling, or schedule a pickup with a junk removal service.

Make sure the location accepts appliances and ask if they offer payment for scrap value.

Step 5: Ask for Proof of Disposal or Payment

When dropping off the fridge, ask for a receipt or certificate of recycling, especially if you’re working with property managers or need documentation for records.

If it has resale value, the scrap yard may offer a small cash payment depending on weight and metal content.

Tip: Some utilities in Ohio, like FirstEnergy, have offered programs in the past that pay up to $75 for working fridges. While programs change often, it’s worth checking firstenergycorp.com to see if any rebates are currently active in Columbus

How Master Junkers Can Help

Local to Columbus and Powell

We’re your nearby junk removal pros based in Powell, serving Columbus and the surrounding areas. Local means faster response times and personal service.

Complete Appliance Removal

From kitchen to garage, we handle the full removal of refrigerators and other large appliances safely, quickly, and without damage to your home.

Fast, Friendly Pickup

We offer same-day or next-day pickup, so you don’t have to wait. Our crew is professional, polite, and always on time.

Responsible Recycling and Disposal

We recycle or donate every fridge we can, working with trusted local partners to keep usable parts out of landfills.

Simple and Stress-Free

No hauling, no refrigerant handling, no hassle. We take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy the extra space.

FAQs About Fridge Recycling in Columbus

Do I need to remove the refrigerant myself?

Nope. If you’re using a junk removal service like Master Junkers, they’ll take care of the refrigerant removal. If you’re scrapping it yourself, the Ohio EPA requires certified removal; never try to do it on your own.

Where can I take my old fridge in Columbus?

You can drop it off at local scrap yards like Sims Brothers Recycling or Columbus Scrap Materials Inc. Just call ahead to check if they accept appliances and what they require beforehand.

Can I make money by scrapping my fridge?

Yes, many fridges contain steel and copper that have some cash value. It’s not a fortune, but a working compressor or copper coils could get you $10–$30, depending on weight and current scrap prices.

What if my fridge still works? Should I recycle or donate it?

If it still runs, donate it! Local places like Furniture Bank of Central Ohio or Habitat for Humanity ReStore might accept it. It helps a family and keeps it out of the landfill.

Can you remove appliances like air conditioners, dishwashers, and microwaves?

Yes, we take most household appliances, including air conditioners, microwaves, and dishwashers. We handle the safe removal and transport, and drop them off for scrap metal recycling when possible. Some units contain refrigerants or electrical components, which we manage responsibly.

What valuable materials do you recover from appliances?

We often remove items like washers, TVs, and others that contain copper windings, stainless steel, and power supply parts. While not every item holds scrap value, we sort usable materials and recycle or donate where possible to reduce landfill waste.