How to Discard Microwave Ovens

When you buy a new microwave, you can discard the old one in a safe and conscientious manner in several ways. While microwaves are not hazardous electronic waste, you can find better alternatives to simply throwing away the old appliance. You can learn how to discard microwave ovens in a few steps.

Instructions

For functioning microwaves

1. Ask friends and family if they or any they know needs a microwave. Students going to college or young families starting a new home may appreciate an appliance hand-me-down.

2. Donate the working microwave to a local Goodwill store. Find out about any tax breaks you may be entitled to from your donation.

3. Sell the used appliance at a yard sale or online marketplace such as Craigslist or eBay.

For non-functioning microwaves

1. Find a local e-recycling program--earth 911 is a good resource. Certain parts can be salvaged for other uses, but often the recycling company will take the whole unit.

2. Contact your local Goodwill to see if they will accept donations of non-functioning appliances. Some donation centers take these appliances and then fix and sell them.

3. Contact your waste management provider if none of the above options work for you. Many waste management companies have special outsized item pickup days.

References

• Earth911.com: Locator for regional electronic recycling (earth911)
• Goodwill.org: Donations