How to Recycle Pool & Spa Equipment

Swimming pool and spa equipment including filters, pumps, heaters, and accessories that can be recycled, refurbished, or require special disposal due to chemical exposure.

Recyclable
How to Prepare
  • 1Drain all fluids completely and clean thoroughly
  • 2Remove or neutralize any chemical residues
  • 3Separate electrical components from mechanical parts
  • 4Check for valuable metals (copper, aluminum)
  • 5Remove filters and dispose separately
  • 6Test functionality of working components
Where to Recycle
  • Pool supply stores (Leslie's, Pinch A Penny)
  • Pool service and repair companies
  • Metal scrap yards (for metal components)
  • E-waste recycling centers (for electrical components)
  • Pool equipment specialty recyclers
  • Online pool equipment marketplaces
Special Instructions

Pool equipment may contain chemicals and require special handling. Electric components need proper e-waste disposal. Many pool supply stores accept old equipment for trade-in credit.

Environmental Impact

Proper disposal prevents chemical contamination. Equipment refurbishment extends lifecycles and provides affordable pool maintenance options. Metal recovery from pumps and heaters has recycling value.

Sustainable Alternatives
  • Trade-in at pool supply stores for credit
  • Sell working equipment to pool service companies
  • Donate to community pools or schools with pools
  • Refurbish equipment for continued use
  • Separate valuable metals for scrap recycling
What’s Accepted

Accepted

  • Pool pumps and motors
  • Pool heaters and heat pumps
  • Pool filters and filter systems
  • Pool cleaners and automated equipment
  • Pool covers and safety equipment
  • Spa and hot tub components

Not Accepted

  • Equipment with severe chemical corrosion
  • Items with dangerous electrical damage
  • Equipment containing asbestos (older heaters)
  • Severely contaminated items
  • Items with refrigerants (require special disposal)
Donation & Take‑Back Options

Estimated value: $20-500+ for working equipment; copper and aluminum components worth $2-4 per pound as scrap

Hazardous Components
  • Chemical residues from pool treatments
  • Electrical components with capacitors
  • Refrigerants in heat pumps
  • Potential asbestos in older equipment

Find Recycling Centers Near You

Use our recycling center finder to locate facilities that accept pool & spa equipment in your area.