- 1Remove all hard drives and storage devices containing wallet data
- 2Wipe firmware and reset to factory settings to protect private keys
- 3Clean dust from fans and heat sinks to increase resale/recycling value
- 4Remove control boards and document model number, hash rate specifications
- 5Photograph serial numbers and condition for insurance/tax records
- 6Package securely with foam padding to prevent damage during transport
- 7Contact certified R2 or e-Stewards e-waste recyclers specializing in mining equipment
- Certified e-waste recyclers (R2/e-Stewards certified facilities)
- Specialized electronic equipment recyclers with crypto mining experience
- Data center equipment processors and IT asset disposition companies
- Best Buy e-waste programs (smaller units under 50 lbs)
- Staples e-waste recycling (varies by location)
- Municipal e-waste collection events (check weight limits)
- Scrap metal yards with precious metal recovery capabilities
CRITICAL SECURITY: ASIC miners contain 50-100g of precious metals per unit including gold, silver, and copper. Functional units may have significant resale value on secondary markets - check current Bitcoin mining profitability and equipment values before deciding to recycle. Visit crypto-monnaie tracking sites like https://courscryptomonnaies.com/ to assess mining profitability. Some facilities offer pick-up services for large quantities (10+ units). Document condition thoroughly for potential tax deductions on donated equipment.
Recycling one ton of ASIC mining electronics recovers materials equivalent to 17 tons of ore mining, preventing massive environmental destruction. Each ASIC contains approximately 50-100g of recoverable precious metals (gold, silver, copper) plus rare earth elements including neodymium and tantalum. Global crypto mining generates 3-5 million tons of e-waste annually. Proper recycling prevents toxic lead, mercury, and cadmium from contaminating groundwater while recovering materials worth $200-800 per ton. The carbon footprint of recycling is 70% lower than virgin material extraction.
- Sell on secondary mining equipment markets (eBay, mining forums, local classifieds)
- Repurpose for low-difficulty altcoin mining (Litecoin, Dogecoin)
- Use as industrial space heaters (extremely inefficient but functional)
- Donate to educational institutions for blockchain technology programs
- Part out valuable components (hash boards, power supplies, fans)
- Convert to decorative/display pieces for tech enthusiasts
- Hold for potential collector value (early Bitcoin mining history)
- Access miner web interface via IP address
- Navigate to System Settings or Configuration menu
- Select 'Factory Reset' or 'Restore Default Settings'
- Remove configuration files containing pool credentials
- If firmware allows, perform a clean firmware reinstall
- Physically remove any SD cards or storage media
- Document reset completion for security records
Accepted
- Bitmain Antminer S9, S17, S19, S19 Pro series
- MicroBT Whatsminer M20, M30, M30S, M50 series
- Canaan AvalonMiner A1246, A1166, A1366 series
- Innosilicon miners (T2, T3, A10, A11 series)
- Control boards and hash boards (highest precious metal content)
- ASIC cooling fans and heat sinks (aluminum recovery)
- Mining rig frames and mounting hardware
- Power distribution boards and accessories
Not Accepted
- Units with lithium-ion batteries still attached (fire hazard)
- Devices containing hazardous fluids or coolants
- Equipment with asbestos-containing components
- Miners with damaged/exposed high-voltage wiring
- Units still containing personal wallet data/keys
Estimated value: $50-500 per unit depending on model, condition, and hash rate; Antminer S19 models: $200-400; older S9 models: $50-120; non-functional units: $20-80 for precious metal content; hash boards separately: $30-100 each
Donation
- Educational institutions for blockchain/tech programs
- Non-profit tech training centers
- Small-scale mining hobbyists (via local forums)
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
- Lead solder on circuit boards (neurotoxin)
- Cadmium in some older chip components
- Mercury in certain electronic switches
- Beryllium copper alloys in connectors
- Flame retardants in plastic housings (PBDE)
- Lithium batteries in control boards (fire hazard if damaged)
Can I recycle broken ASIC miners?
Yes! Even non-functional ASICs contain valuable metals worth $20-80 per unit. E-waste recyclers accept miners in any condition. Hash boards have the highest precious metal concentration - some recyclers pay premium rates for separated hash boards.
Should I remove the hash boards before recycling?
Hash boards contain the highest concentration of precious metals (gold traces, copper layers). If you have time and tools, removing them can increase value by 30-50%. However, most recyclers accept complete units and will separate components themselves. For large quantities, ask the recycler their preference.
What about warranty and manufacturer buyback?
Some manufacturers offer trade-in credits for old miners when purchasing new models. Bitmain occasionally runs trade-in programs offering 10-20% discounts on new purchases. Check manufacturer websites before recycling - a trade-in may be more profitable than selling for scrap.
How do I safely transport old ASIC miners?
ASICs are heavy (10-15 lbs) with sensitive electronics. Use original packaging if available. Otherwise, wrap in anti-static bags, cushion with bubble wrap, and pack in sturdy boxes. For quantities over 10 units, many recyclers offer pick-up services. Never ship with batteries attached.
Are there security risks when recycling mining equipment?
Yes! Always wipe firmware and remove storage containing wallet addresses, pool credentials, and payout information. Hackers can extract this data from discarded equipment. Perform factory resets and physically remove any SD cards or storage media before recycling.
Can ASIC miners be repurposed for other uses?
Limited options: Some convert them to space heaters (very inefficient), others mine less popular cryptocurrencies with lower difficulty. Educational institutions use them for teaching blockchain technology. Some hobbyists display them as crypto memorabilia. Functional value decreases 50-70% annually as newer models emerge.