How to Dispose of an Old Fridge or Freezer
Disposing of an old fridge or freezer isn't as simple as throwing away general household rubbish. Because they contain harmful greenhouse gases and refrigerants, they are classed as hazardous waste and must be handled carefully. While you can take them to your local tip, there are strict rules on how they are processed.
Find a Local Tip for Fridges
Enter your postcode below to see which nearby recycling centres accept this item.
Won't fit in your car?
Don't risk damaging your vehicle. Hire a local 'Man and Van' and get fridges taken away today.
Hire Man & Van ↗⚠️ Important Safety Warning
Never fly-tip a fridge or leave it in an alleyway. Not only is fly-tipping a criminal offence with massive fines, but abandoned fridges are extremely dangerous for young children who can easily get trapped inside.
What happens to your fridge at the tip?
Fridges and freezers fall under the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) regulations. When you take one to a council recycling centre, it is placed in a designated area, separate from general scrap metal.
From there, they are transported to specialist recycling plants. First, the hazardous CFC or HFC gases and compressor oils are safely extracted in a sealed environment. Once the dangerous materials are removed, the fridge is crushed, and the metals and plastics are separated to be recycled into new products.
Rules for taking a fridge to the recycling centre
Most local council tips accept fridges and freezers from residents for free, but you must ensure it is empty and defrosted before you arrive. You will also need to be able to lift it safely out of your vehicle, though site staff are sometimes allowed to help if they aren't too busy.
If you plan to use a van or a trailer to transport the fridge, remember to check your council's website first. You will likely need to book a time slot or apply for a van permit before turning up.
💡 Tips & Alternatives
- Use retailer take-back schemes. If you are buying a new fridge, almost all major retailers (like Currys, AO, or John Lewis) will take your old one away for a fee (usually around £20 to £30) when they deliver the new one.
- Book a council collection. If you don't have a suitable vehicle, most councils offer a bulky waste collection service. It is often cheaper than hiring a private waste carrier.
- Donate if it still works. If your fridge is in full working order, clean, and reasonably modern, some local charities will collect it for free to help families in need.
❓Common Questions
Can I lay a fridge down in my car to take it to the tip?
You can lay it down for the short journey to the tip, but you must be careful not to damage the cooling pipes at the back. If the pipes break, hazardous gases will leak out. Also, ensure your car is large enough so you don't have to force it in.
Will a scrap metal dealer take my old fridge for free?
Most traditional scrap metal collectors ('scrap iron men') will not take fridges. Because the hazardous gases must be removed professionally, it costs money to dispose of them, meaning scrap dealers cannot make a profit from them.
Do I need to clean the fridge before taking it to the dump?
It doesn't need to be sparkling clean, but it must be completely empty of food and fully defrosted. Tips will not accept freezers that are still full of ice.
Can I take a commercial fridge to a household tip?
No. Local council recycling centres only accept domestic appliances. If you have a commercial display fridge or a chest freezer from a business, you must use a licensed commercial waste disposal company.