Metal recycling
How to Recycle Electric Motors
Motors removed from appliances, tools, pumps, HVAC equipment, machinery, and industrial systems.
Check local acceptanceOften purchased as a distinct scrap grade; payout depends on weight, copper content, contamination, and local prices.Last reviewed September 9, 2026
Quick answer
Electric motors are recyclable for their copper windings, steel, and aluminum. Keep the motor intact unless the scrap yard asks for separation, drain any attached equipment, and use a metal recycler or e-waste processor appropriate to the source machine.
- Recycling route
- Check locally
- Typical value
- Often purchased as a distinct scrap grade; payout depends on weight, copper content, contamination, and local prices.
How to Prepare
- 1Disconnect power and remove batteries
- 2Drain oil, coolant, or process fluids from attached equipment
- 3