Why Recycle Your Old Refrigerator Or Freezer?

Energy Savings: Older model refrigerators or freezers consume two to four times more energy as compared to newer, more energy efficient models. Money Savings: By replacing your old refrigerator or freezer with a newer model, that has earned the government's ENERGY STAR® label, you can conserve energy and save up to $50/year! If your old refrigerator is a secondary unit located in your garage, you can save over $200/year on electricity charges by recycling it and not replacing it. Refrigerators or Freezers located in garages can work 30% harder during the summer than in an air conditioned home.

Protects the Environment:

Refrigerators or freezers have components that can be hazardous or toxic. Appliance owners play a critical role in helping to protect against environmental hazards associated with appliance disposal. By recycling your old refrigerators or freezers at your local Recycling Association of Maricopa facility, you are doing your part to help protect our community and the environment.

What are the environmental concerns associated with the disposal of refrigerator household appliances?

Refrigerant: Household refrigerators or freezers manufactured before 1995 can contain chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) refrigerant. Most window air-conditioning units contain hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerant. CFCs and HCFCs are ozone-depleting substances (ODS) that, if released to the environment, destroy the protective ozone layer above the earth. Moreover, CFC and HCFC refrigerants are also potent greenhouse gases, meaning that their release contributes to global climate change. Refrigerators and freezers manufactured since 1995 contain ozone-friendly hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants; however, these refrigerants still need to be carefully handled since they are greenhouse gases.

Foam: Refrigerators and freezers manufactured before 2005 are insulated with foam that contains ODS—either CFCs or HCFCs. If emitted, CFCs and HCFCs contribute to both ozone depletion and climate change. Only units manufactured since 2005 contain foam blowing agents that are ozone and climate friendly. Air-conditioners and dehumidifiers do not contain foam.

How can I dispose of my refrigerator or freezer appliance in an environmentally responsible way?

By recycling it at your local Recycling Association of Maricopa facility, on Saturdays.

Don't Trash It,  Recycle It! At your local Recycling Association of Maricopa Center.

Do not attempt to remove refrigerant or compressors yourself. Improper handling may result in physical harm. Only properly trained & certified technicians should attempt to remove refrigerant.Note: