How to Get Rid of Old Appliances in San Diego
Appliances are heavy, awkward, and some are regulated by law. Refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners contain refrigerants (freon/CFCs) that must be professionally removed before disposal. Here's how to get rid of old appliances in San Diego the right way.
Appliances that need special handling
- Refrigerators & freezers — contain refrigerant that must be certified-removed.
- Air conditioners & dehumidifiers — same freon/CFC rules apply.
- Water heaters, washers, dryers, stoves — heavy but recyclable as scrap metal.
- Microwaves & small electronics — treated as e-waste, banned from the landfill.
Option 1: Retailer haul-away on delivery
Buying a replacement? Many retailers will haul away your old unit when they deliver the new one, sometimes free, sometimes for a small fee. Ask at checkout — but this only works if you're timing a new purchase.
Option 2: Scrap metal & recycling
Metal appliances have scrap value, and some recyclers accept them free if you can haul them yourself. Refrigerant-containing units usually carry a small handling fee for certified freon recovery (around $25 for fridges and AC units).
Option 3: Same-day appliance removal
Appliances are heavy and can damage floors and doorways if you move them wrong. Full-service removal means our crew disconnects (where safe), carries it out, and delivers it to certified recyclers — freon handled correctly. No truck, no heavy lifting, no dump run.
What not to do
Never leave an old fridge on the curb or in an alley, and never puncture a refrigerant line. Both are illegal and can carry serious fines. Electronics and freon-bearing appliances are banned from the landfill in California.
Get fast, eco-friendly appliance removal across San Diego County.
(619) 999-3565Frequently asked questions
How do I dispose of a refrigerator in San Diego?
Refrigerators contain refrigerant that must be professionally removed, so they can't just go in the trash. You can use a certified recycler (usually a small freon-handling fee) or book appliance removal and we'll handle the certified disposal for you.
Is appliance disposal free in San Diego?
Scrap-metal recyclers may take some metal appliances free if you transport them yourself. Freon-containing units like fridges and AC typically have a small handling fee (around $25). Full-service removal is paid but includes all lifting and certified recycling.
Can I throw away a microwave or small appliance?
Electronics like microwaves are considered e-waste and are banned from the landfill in California. They must go to a certified e-waste recycler, which we handle as part of our service.
