How to Get Rid of an Old Refrigerator (Without the Headache)

It’s easy to forget how much you rely on your refrigerator until it stops working. Whether it’s a broken refrigerator sitting in the basement or an old unit taking up valuable space, letting it linger too long can quickly become a hassle. But here’s the catch: getting rid of an old fridge isn’t as simple as leaving it out with your regular trash.

Refrigerators and freezers contain refrigerants, oil, and foam insulation that can release harmful greenhouse gases if not properly disposed. On top of that, most local waste management divisions won’t touch these bulky appliances unless specific rules are followed and ignoring those rules could cost you in fines or penalties.

So, what’s the right way to handle refrigerator disposal without the stress or confusion? We’ll walk you through all the eco-friendly and legal options for disposal, including the simplest one that takes the weight off your shoulders—literally. Keep reading.

6 Best Ways to Get Rid of an Old Refrigerator

1. Donate It (If It Still Works)

If your old refrigerator still runs, you don’t have to send it to the landfill. Giving it a second life by donating it to a local charity or shelter can be a thoughtful and practical solution.

Many community centers, churches, and nonprofit groups gladly accept appliances in working condition, especially those that can still help families in need.

Before you roll it out of your home, it’s smart to check with the organization first. Some groups offer free pickup, but others may ask you to drop it off or arrange transport. That’s where things can get tricky if you don’t have the means to haul a heavy appliance on your own.

To make things easier, HaulBuddy offers a simple way to handle donation deliveries. If you’ve got a refrigerator in good shape, HaulBuddy can pick it up and deliver it directly to the local charity or community organization of your choice.

No heavy lifting, no scheduling stress—just a fast, helpful way to put your old appliance to good use.

2. Use a Junk Removal Service

Not every refrigerator is worth saving. When the old unit has stopped working or sits too long unused, it becomes more of a burden than a backup. Rather than figuring out how to drag it through tight hallways or down basement steps, hiring a junk removal service can save you time and effort.

This option is especially helpful if the refrigerator is too large for curbside collection or contains hazardous materials like refrigerant or foam insulation. Professional removal crews know how to safely haul appliances and ensure everything is properly disposed of in compliance with federal law.

It also means you avoid possible fines from your local waste management division for incorrect disposal.

If you need it gone quickly, HaulBuddy makes the process simple. Our service teams are trained to handle heavy appliances with care, removing your old refrigerator and transporting it for recycling or responsible disposal.

We help you clear the space without the usual hassle, so you can focus on setting up your new appliance without delay.

3. Schedule a Special Pickup with Your City (If Available)

Some refrigerators are too far gone for donation and too bulky for your regular trash pickup. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option and don't mind doing a bit of the legwork, your city might offer a solution.

Many local waste management divisions provide appliance pickup or bulk trash days throughout the month. These programs can be helpful when trying to dispose of an old refrigerator or other unwanted appliances.

That said, spots often fill up quickly, so you’ll likely need to schedule your pickup well in advance. A separate fee may also apply, depending on your location.

Be prepared to handle the physical part yourself. Most cities require you to bring the fridge out to the curb and remove the doors before pickup. These steps are meant to prevent accidents and ensure proper handling, especially if refrigerants or foam insulation are still inside the unit.

Before making arrangements, it’s a good idea to visit your city’s sanitation or recycling website. They usually list the rules for refrigerator disposal, including how to handle refrigerant removal or confirm whether the service follows RAD partners' guidelines for protecting the ozone layer.

4. Recycle Through an Appliance Recycling Program

If tossing your old refrigerator into the trash feels like the wrong move, you’re not alone. With millions of refrigerators and freezers discarded every year, proper recycling plays a major role in protecting the environment and your community.

That’s where appliance recycling programs come in.

Many utility companies and appliance retailers run recycling initiatives, especially when energy rebate offers are active. These programs often reward you for upgrading to a more efficient new fridge while ensuring your old one is properly handled. Some even offer pickup services, depending on your location.

For a nationwide solution, the EPA’s Responsible Appliance Disposal program makes it easier to find trusted options near you.

Known as RAD, this program connects you with certified partners who understand how to remove refrigerant, handle foam insulation, and break down other metals and plastics without harming the ozone layer. By entering your zip code on the RAD website, you can locate nearby facilities or partners who meet federal standards for disposal and recycling.

Whether your refrigerator is broken or simply outdated, this route ensures your old unit is not just removed but recycled with care. It’s one of the most eco-conscious ways to get rid of an old appliance.

5. Return It to the Retailer (If You’re Replacing It)

Upgrading to a new refrigerator is exciting until you’re left figuring out what to do with the old one. The good news? You may not have to deal with it at all. Many appliance retailers offer removal services as part of the delivery process when bringing in your new unit.

Before finalizing your purchase, ask the retailer if they can haul away the old refrigerator once they drop off the new appliance. Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s typically include this service for a small fee, or sometimes even at no extra charge during promotional periods.

It’s a simple question that can save you the trouble of scheduling separate refrigerator disposal.

There are a few things to prepare. The appliance usually needs to be unplugged, cleared of drawers and shelves, and ready to move. Retailers may ask you to have it at the door or accessible from the driveway.

Always confirm that the unit will be recycled or handled by a certified scrap metal recycler and not just dumped at a landfill.

If removal isn’t part of the standard offer, don’t hesitate to bring it up during the transaction. Many sellers are willing to include it, especially if it helps close the sale and keeps your old fridge out of the trash.

6. Sell It Online (If It’s Still Functional)

When your old fridge still runs but no longer fits your space or needs, turning it into extra cash can be a smart move. Instead of letting it sit unused, listing it online gives someone else the chance to put it to good use.

Digital platforms like OfferUp, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are often the first stop for people looking to buy used appliances at a lower price. Make sure to describe the refrigerator clearly, include photos, and be upfront about any wear. Most buyers are fine with a few scratches, as long as the fridge or freezer still works.

Since these units are heavy and bulky, it helps to list the item as local pickup only. That way, you won’t need to figure out delivery or transportation. Just keep in mind that buyers might not come with the right equipment to move a large appliance, so you may need to assist.

If your sale doesn’t go as planned, don’t worry. HaulBuddy can step in and handle everything from pickup to recycling or disposal, helping you get rid of the old refrigerator without delay.

Need Help? Let HaulBuddy Do the Heavy Lifting

Figuring out what to do with an old refrigerator doesn’t have to turn into a weekend project. Whether the unit still runs or has completely stopped working, HaulBuddy is here to make the process simple from start to finish.

If your fridge is in working condition, we’ll pick it up and deliver it to a local charity or organization of your choice. If the appliance is broken, outdated, or taking up space, our team will remove it responsibly — recycling what we can and keeping harmful materials out of landfills whenever possible.

You don’t have to lift, haul, or stress about disposal rules. We’ve got the equipment, the know-how, and the commitment to do it right.

Still holding onto that old fridge?

Let HaulBuddy take it off your hands.

From donation deliveries to eco-friendly junk removal, we offer reliable appliance pickup in cities across the U.S. Schedule your removal today at haulbuddy.com.