- 1Unplug
- 2Wipe clean
- 3Remove glass turntable
- Appliance recyclers
- E‑waste events
- Retail take‑back
Recycling captures metals and diverts e‑waste.
Appliances contain valuable materials that are worth significantly more when separated. A refrigerator sold whole might bring $10 to $20, but the copper coils, aluminum, and steel components separated can be worth $30 to $60. The right tools make this disassembly practical and safe.
Disassembly Tools
Most appliances are held together with standard bolts and screws. Having the right tools makes disassembly efficient and prevents damage to valuable components.
A socket set handles most appliance fasteners. Refrigerators, washers, dryers, and AC units typically use 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch bolts. Being able to remove these quickly lets you access the valuable copper coils and aluminum components inside.
A reciprocating saw with metal cutting blades makes quick work of cutting through appliance casings when bolts are rusted or inaccessible. Essential for extracting copper coils from AC units and refrigerators when standard disassembly isn't possible.
Material Extraction and Identification
Once you have appliances open, extracting and identifying materials correctly maximizes your return.
Heavy duty wire cutters extract copper coils from refrigerators, AC units, and washing machines. These coils are the most valuable component, often worth $15 to $30 per appliance. The extraction takes 5 to 10 minutes with the right tools.
A magnet helps you separate aluminum from steel components. Aluminum parts (like heat exchangers and some motor housings) are worth $0.85 to $1.10 per pound, while steel is worth $0.03 to $0.05 per pound. Proper separation can add $5 to $15 per appliance.
Safety Equipment
Appliance disassembly exposes you to sharp metal edges, broken glass, and potentially hazardous materials. Proper safety equipment is essential, not optional.
Cut resistant gloves protect your hands from sharp metal edges and broken glass. You will encounter sharp edges during disassembly. Quality gloves prevent the lacerations that send most DIYers to urgent care.
Safety glasses protect your eyes from flying debris, metal shavings, and particles that can cause serious injury. Essential when using power tools or cutting materials.
Value recovery example: A typical refrigerator contains 2 to 4 pounds of copper coils ($6 to $16), 10 to 15 pounds of aluminum ($8 to $16), and 50 to 100 pounds of steel ($1.50 to $5). Sold whole, you might get $10 to $20. Separated, the same materials are worth $15 to $37. The tools ($100 to $200 total) pay for themselves after processing 3 to 5 appliances.
Accepted
- Countertop and over‑the‑range microwaves
- With or without turntable
Not Accepted
- Units with heavy food contamination
- Built‑in units still hard‑wired (needs professional removal)
Estimated value: $0–$5 (scrap/parts); working units may be donated
Donation
- Thrift stores (working units)
- Local community reuse
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
- High‑voltage capacitor
- Magnetron (ceramics), transformer
- Circuit boards
Is it safe to take apart a microwave?
No—capacitors can hold a dangerous charge even unplugged. Recycle whole units.