How to Prepare
- 1Disconnect all cables and accessories
- 2Clean screen and housing
- 3Handle carefully - screens can implode
- 4Keep intact - do not attempt to disassemble
Where to Recycle
- Certified e-waste recyclers
- Municipal hazardous waste events
- Some electronics retailers
Special Instructions
Contains significant amounts of lead in the glass. Requires special handling and cannot go in regular recycling.
Environmental Impact
Lead is highly toxic to humans and environment. Proper recycling recovers lead and other materials safely.
What’s Accepted
Accepted
- CRT televisions and computer monitors
- Units with missing remotes or cables
- Working and non-working units
Not Accepted
- Broken or shattered CRT tubes
- Units that have been opened or with tubes removed
- Commercial quantities without appointment (varies)
Donation & Take‑Back Options
Estimated value: $0 (fees are common due to leaded glass handling)
Donation
- Limited: some thrift stores (working flat screens only)
- Local community groups (verify acceptance first)
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
Hazardous Components
- Leaded glass in CRT
- Phosphor coatings
- Lead solder on circuit boards
FAQs
Why is there often a fee for CRT recycling?
CRTs contain several pounds of leaded glass which is expensive to process safely.
Can I put a CRT on the curb?
No. CRTs require special handling and are often illegal to discard with household trash.