• Trash Compactor: 6 years
• Dishwasher: 9 years
• Microwave: 9 years
• Clothes Washer: 10 years
• Ceiling Exhaust Fan: 10 years
• Freezer: 11 years
• Sink Disposal: 12 years
• Clothes Dryer: 13 years
• Refrigerator: 13 years
• Range, electric: 13 years
• Range/oven hood: 14 years
• Range, gas: 15 years

When and Where to Recycle

One person’s ceiling is another person’s floor, as the saying goes. Meaning: what does not work for you just may work for someone else. Groups and private individuals may be willing to take your discarded machines and small appliances. Local Utilities: Dispose of the item and get paid for it, too? Win-win! Yes, some local gas and electric companies have programs designed to improve energy consumption. These programs often include free pickup of your unit and include $50 to $75 rebate checks as well. Charities: Before you foist your ancient fridge on the poor unsuspecting guy at the Goodwill donations bay, know that most do not accept stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other major appliances. Transportation, refurbishment, and disposal costs tend to erode the charities’ bottom lines. However, Goodwill, Salvation Army, Value Village, and other local charities will accept small appliances in working condition. Local Free Exchanges: Post your item on Craigslist, Freecycle, or Facebook and advertise it as a free item. Operable items are likely to be taken, as long as they are free.

• Freecycle: Freecycle.org
• Facebook: To find your local Facebook group, click on New Groups, then Local. Look for your neighborhood’s “Buy Nothing” group.
• Buy Nothing: Go to the Buy Nothing website (BuyNothing.org) and drill down to your community under the “Our Groups” tab. In many cases, this will then take you to a related Facebook page.⁶

Knowing when to repair, replace, discard, or recycle your unwanted or broken appliances and small machines is good for the environment, as well as your pocketbook.

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