How to get rid of old appliances in Minnesota
Appliances are the most regulated item in household junk. Refrigerators, freezers, AC units, and dehumidifiers contain refrigerant that federal law says must be recovered by certified technicians before scrapping — which is why you cannot just leave a fridge in the alley. The good news: appliance metal is valuable, so the recycling chain is well developed in Minnesota and several disposal paths are cheap or free.
Check your utility first
If the appliance still runs, check your electric utility before anything else. Minnesota utilities have periodically offered appliance-recycling programs with free pickup and a rebate for working refrigerators and freezers — the utility wants the old energy hog off the grid. Program availability changes, so check your utility's current offers; when it is running, this is the best deal for a working fridge.
Scrap value: free pickup for metal-heavy appliances
Washers, dryers, stoves, and dishwashers are mostly steel, and scrap haulers will often take them free if you get them to the curb — the metal is their payment. The catch is refrigerant: most scrappers cannot legally take fridges, freezers, or AC units unless they handle certified recovery, and curbside scavengers who cut lines and vent refrigerant create exactly the problem the law exists to prevent.
Retailer haul-away and pre-staged pickup
Eligible curbside, driveway or accessible-garage pickups have an $85 minimum. This is not a flat price for every item. Send photos for the exact total in writing before booking.
FAQ
Quick answers.
Why can't I just put a refrigerator out for the garbage truck?
Federal rules require the refrigerant to be recovered by a certified technician before the fridge is scrapped. Garbage haulers are not equipped for that, so fridges need an appliance-recycling chain — utility programs, retailer haul-away, or a hauler that does certified recovery.
Do I need to empty or unplug the appliance before pickup?
Empty the appliance and arrange safe disconnection from power, water and gas by a qualified person before staging. Never cut refrigerant lines. Show the appliance and its curbside, driveway or garage pickup location in your photos.
What does appliance removal cost in the Twin Cities?
Eligible curbside, driveway or accessible-garage pickups have an $85 minimum. This is not a flat price for every item. Send photos for the exact total in writing before booking.
More local guides
Keep reading.
Need bulky non-hazardous items removed?
Text photos and your city for a written quote and pickup window. Hazardous materials must use an approved county program.