Wondering how to get rid of an old refrigerator in South Florida? It's not as simple as rolling it to the curb. Fridges are big, heavy and full of refrigerant that has to be handled the right way. Here's what you need to know before you start pushing it toward the garage door.
Why fridges are different
A fridge isn't just a big metal box. It has refrigerant in its cooling system, and that has to be recovered before the fridge can be scrapped or recycled. That's why you can't just toss it with regular trash. It's also why some places charge extra to take one.
Fridges are heavy too, and they're tall and top-heavy. Getting one out of a kitchen and down a set of stairs is a two-person job at the very least.
Your options for an old refrigerator
1. Sell it or give it away
If it still works and keeps things cold, someone might want it. Garage fridges are popular. List it on Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor. Be ready to help the buyer move it.
2. Check with your power company
Some utilities have run programs that pay you a small rebate to recycle an old, working fridge or freezer. These programs come and go. Call your power company or check its website to see if there's one right now.
3. Ask the store when you buy a new one
Many appliance stores will haul the old fridge away when they deliver the new one, sometimes for a fee. Ask before delivery day. Some only take the old one if it's unplugged, empty and ready to go.
4. Try bulk pickup
Some cities take appliances on bulk day. Some have special rules for anything with refrigerant, and some may refuse it or leave it tagged on the curb. Check your city's solid waste page first. Our post on bulk trash pickup limits explains how limits work around here.
5. Have it hauled
We take fridges, freezers, washers, dryers, stoves and dishwashers. Our crew carries it out, loads it and makes sure it goes to a place that recycles appliances. Metal gets recycled whenever possible. That's our appliance removal service.
Does the fridge need to be empty?
No. You don't have to empty it before we come. But anything left inside adds weight and has to be dealt with too, so it may change the price. If it's full of spoiled food after a power outage, let us know when you text.
What it costs to get rid of a fridge
We price by how much of our trailer your stuff fills. Loads start at $105 to $125, and a fridge's price depends on its size and how easy it is to get out. Stairs, long carries and tight doorways add labor and can change the price. Got an old washer or a broken grill too? Add it to the same trip. See every load size on our pricing section.
Tips before pickup day
- Unplug it the day before so any ice can melt. Put a towel down.
- Tape the doors shut if you can.
- Clear a path from the kitchen to the front door.
- If you're in a gated community, add us to the gate list or we'll call from the gate.
Pushing a fridge down a hallway is a workout nobody signed up for. Let our crew handle it.
Related service: Appliance & Electronics Removal