MAY 05, 2026
Scrap metal recycling reduces the amount of waste that goes into landfills, earns you extra cash, and helps the environment in many ways. But did you know that household appliances can be recycled? Instead of letting large appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines take up space in your storage areas, it’s a good idea to sell them to local scrap metal buyers. Giving these appliances a second life reduces waste, lowers carbon footprint, and conserves resources.
So, how much metal is inside your refrigerator or washing machine? This is a common question we get from curious homeowners. At RCM Recycling, we pride ourselves on being reputable scrap metal buyers. Let’s answer this question in this post to enlighten some of the readers who may be considering recycling their appliances.
A typical refrigerator weighs roughly 150-250 lbs (68-113 kg), of which 65-75% is metal, primarily steel. A standard unit contains roughly 120-140 lbs of ferrous metal (steel), along with 2-4 kg of non-ferrous metals like copper and aluminum in the coils, motor, and wiring. A single refrigerator can yield over 100 lbs of recyclable metal.
A refrigerator is usually worth $15-$35 USD in scrap, with steel bringing in $8-$20 and copper/aluminum components contributing the rest.
One of the most valuable parts of a refrigerator is the compressor, which is usually located at the back or bottom of the unit. The compressor contains copper windings, which are highly sought after in the scrap metal market due to their conductivity and value. Copper tubing is also used throughout the refrigeration system to circulate coolant. While the amount of copper may not seem large, it can add up in value compared to other metals.
Instead of letting your unused refrigerator collect dust in the garage or basement, consider recycling it and make a quick buck. Empty the fridge, secure the doors, and disconnect the lines before it’s shipped to the scrap yard. Most scrap metal buyers in McDonough provide pickup services, making it easy
A standard washing machine contains approximately 75 to 90 pounds (34–41 kg) of recyclable metal, making up roughly 50–60% of its total weight. The majority is steel, along with valuable copper in the motor and some aluminum. A typical washing machine weighs 150–200 pounds and offers a scrap value of roughly $12-$25. Some scrap metal buyers offer even more for machines that have been properly dismantled and sorted.
Before taking your washing machine to the scrap yard, it is advisable to remove non-metallic parts like concrete counterweights and plastics to maximize the value of the remaining steel and copper. This also saves the recyclers time and effort in separating materials.
For those interested in recycling or scrapping appliances, it’s important to follow proper procedures. Refrigerators, in particular, require special handling due to refrigerants, which can be harmful to the environment if released improperly. Many recycling centers or scrap yards offer services to safely remove these substances before processing the metal. Consult with them beforehand if you’re not sure how to handle your appliances for recycling.
Do you have broken electronics lying around your home? Looking for scrap metal buyers that accept household appliances? You’ve come to the right place. RCM Recycling is one of the top-rated scrap metal recycling companies that offers top dollar for scrap metals and hassle-free services. If you are interested in selling us your scrap metals or have any questions regarding our services, feel free to call us or send us a message online.
