Appliances recycling
How to Recycle Water Heaters
Tank and tankless water heaters containing steel, copper, brass, controls, and sometimes refrigerant in heat-pump models.
Check local acceptanceLast reviewed September 9, 2026
Quick answer
A drained, disconnected water heater can usually go to bulky-appliance pickup or a scrap yard. Have a qualified person disconnect gas, electric, and plumbing; heat-pump water heaters also contain refrigerant and need qualified recovery.
- Recycling route
- Check locally
How to Prepare
- 1Have gas or electrical service safely disconnected
- 2Shut off water and drain the tank completely
- 3Disconnect and cap plumbing safely
- 4Identify heat-pump models for refrigerant handling