Disposing of an old refrigerators and freezer in Toronto? This guide lists every option - free drop-off at major retailers (Best Buy, Staples, Office Depot), manufacturer mail-back programs (often free with prepaid label), and certified local recyclers within driving distance. Each option below shows what's accepted, the cost, and what to do with your data before handing the refrigerators and freezer over.
Toronto residents disposing of an old Refrigerators and Freezers can choose between retailer trade-in, council bulky-waste collection, and dedicated e-waste recyclers. Compare the options below.
Where Can You Recycle Refrigerators and Freezers in Toronto?
Residents can recycle refrigerators and freezers at Home Depot Canada, Canadian Tire stores with take-back programs, or through municipal collection services like the City of Toronto's bulky waste program.
According to the European Parliament, less than 1% of rare earth elements in e-waste are currently recycled.
Free Disposal Options for Refrigerators and Freezers in Toronto
Several retailers offer free pickup when you purchase a new unit. For instance, Best Buy Canada and Lowes Canada provide free recycling upon delivery of your new refrigerator or freezer. Utilities such as Hydro One also participate in the EPA's RAD (Responsible Appliance Disposal) program to ensure proper recovery of refrigerants.
Hazardous Material Handling for Refrigerators and Freezers
Refrigerators and Freezers contain hazardous materials like CFCs, HCFCs, HFCs, compressor oil, and sometimes mercury. These must be handled by EPA-certified technicians who recover the refrigerants safely before disposal. In Toronto, this is managed through provincial stewardship programs that coordinate with local businesses to ensure compliance.
Scrap Value of Refrigerators and Freezers in Toronto
Refrigerators and freezers can indeed be sold for scrap metal at specific rates. On average, a refrigerator might fetch around $20-$40 depending on its size and material content. However, the value largely depends on current market prices for metals like steel and copper.
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 25 US states plus Washington DC have enacted e-waste recycling laws.
Municipal Bulky Waste Collection Schedule in Toronto
Toronto residents can book a bulky waste collection through the City of Toronto's 311 service online or by phone. The city typically allows up to two refrigerators and freezers per household each year as part of their regular garbage pickup schedule, but you need to request a special pick-up.
Refrigerators and Freezers Recycling in Toronto
When recycling refrigerators and freezers in Toronto, it's important to know the specific requirements and options available. The city has programs like bulky waste collection and partnerships with retailers for easy disposal at no cost. This ensures that hazardous materials are handled responsibly while making recycling accessible and convenient for residents.
Free Disposal Programs
Best Buy Canada and Lowes Canada both have free recycling services when you buy a new refrigerator or freezer, thanks to their partnership with the EPA's RAD program. Hydro One also participates in this initiative, facilitating safe disposal through certified technicians who handle refrigerants properly.
Hazardous Material Management
Refrigerators and Freezers contain harmful substances that require specialized handling. Local businesses work within provincial stewardship programs to ensure compliance. These programs coordinate with trained professionals who safely manage the recovery of hazardous materials like CFCs, HCFCs, and HFCs from Refrigerators and Freezers.
Scrap Metal Value
The scrap value for a refrigerator or freezer ranges between $20-$40 based on metal content and current market rates for steel and copper. Selling these appliances to scrap yards can help offset the costs of disposal while promoting recycling efforts.
Bulky Waste Collection Schedule
To book bulky waste collection, residents should visit the City of Toronto's 311 service online or call their helpline. The city allows up to two Refrigerators and Freezers per household annually as part of regular garbage pickup schedules but requires a special request for these items due to their size.
eCycling Central covers all types of recycling including appliances, making sure you find the best options for responsibly disposing of Refrigerators and Freezers in Toronto.
Sources
- European Parliament
- National Conference of State Legislatures
Legal context for electronics disposal in Toronto
Recycling and disposal in CA fall under specific legal frameworks. Knowing them helps you (or your business) stay compliant.
EPRA Provincial Programmes (Canada) (Canada)
Each Canadian province has its own e-waste programme administered by EPRA. Free drop-off at authorised collection sites. Enforced by: Provincial agencies.
Read the full regulation summary