Got an Old Microwave in Maryville? Here’s How to Dispose of It
Few household appliances experience more wear and tear than microwaves. After reheating countless leftovers and preparing numerous frozen meals, microwaves commonly slow down, break down, or develop issues that require replacement.
If you've replaced your microwave, you're probably wondering what to do with the old one. Can you throw a microwave away? The answer is more complicated than you might think.
Knowing how to dispose of a microwave properly involves more than just tossing it in the trash. Many states—including New Jersey, North Carolina, and Maryland—classify microwaves as e-waste due to toxic materials inside them, such as:
Recycling is the most eco-friendly way to dispose of a microwave. While reusing microwave parts might seem unusual, recycling centers regularly recover these valuable materials:
This list isn’t exhaustive; microwaves contain many recyclable parts specific to their models. If you plan to recycle your microwave, research its materials. You can hire a professional to disassemble it or bring it directly to your local e-waste recycling center.
Besides recycling, here are other easy ways to get rid of your old microwave:
If you've replaced your microwave, you're probably wondering what to do with the old one. Can you throw a microwave away? The answer is more complicated than you might think.
How Do You Get Rid of a Microwave?
Knowing how to dispose of a microwave properly involves more than just tossing it in the trash. Many states—including New Jersey, North Carolina, and Maryland—classify microwaves as e-waste due to toxic materials inside them, such as:
Mercury
Cadmium
Lead
Because of these hazardous materials, it's essential to dispose of microwaves intentionally through donation or recycling. Throwing one out carelessly can lead to fines or legal issues.
What Components of a Microwave Are Recyclable?
Recycling is the most eco-friendly way to dispose of a microwave. While reusing microwave parts might seem unusual, recycling centers regularly recover these valuable materials:Steel: Steel is the most recycled material worldwide, and many microwaves contain large amounts of it. Recycling facilities use steel from microwaves to produce cars, home appliances, and construction beams.
Glass: Glass is fully recyclable without quality loss. Recycling centers turn microwave glass into new jars, bottles, and containers.
Nickel: Some microwave batteries contain nickel, which recycling plants melt down to make new batteries or stainless steel.
This list isn’t exhaustive; microwaves contain many recyclable parts specific to their models. If you plan to recycle your microwave, research its materials. You can hire a professional to disassemble it or bring it directly to your local e-waste recycling center.
Ways to Get Rid of Your Old Microwave
Besides recycling, here are other easy ways to get rid of your old microwave:Donate It: Donating your working microwave to a friend, local charity, or community organization is a helpful way to clear space and benefit someone else.
Sell It: Selling your microwave online or to someone you know can help you make extra money from an appliance you no longer need.
Are There Laws About Disposing of Small Appliances Like Microwaves
No federal laws specifically regulate appliance disposal and e-waste nationwide, but many states enforce their rules. For example, Tennessee prohibits landfills from accepting certain electronic appliances containing mercury.
If you’re tackling a clean-out project or disposing of appliances in Blount County, a Maryville dumpster rental can simplify waste management and ensure compliance with local regulations.
Additionally, many communities prioritize proper appliance disposal. Local recycling events often include designated e-waste drop-off points.
What Are the Environmental Impacts of Improper Microwave Disposal?
Businesses and states regulate e-waste disposal for good reason. Improper disposal harms the environment, causing air pollution when toxic appliance materials enter the air during incorrect disassembly. This pollution negatively affects respiratory health in humans and animals.Electronic appliances also aren't biodegradable, meaning they'll persist in landfills for thousands of years. Harmful substances inside these appliances contaminate soil, damaging fertility and stunting plant growth.
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