Short answer
Washers, dryers and stoves often can (some companies charge a fee). Fridges, freezers, AC units and dehumidifiers need their refrigerant recovered first, so most dumpster companies won't take them as-is.
The refrigerant rule
Federal rules under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act prohibit knowingly releasing refrigerant when appliances are disposed of, and the refrigerant must be recovered before the appliance is scrapped (US EPA: appliance disposal (refrigerant)). That's why haulers ask for proof the refrigerant has been removed, or refuse these items.
Options for fridges, freezers and AC units
- Retailer haul-away when a new appliance is delivered.
- Utility recycling programs: some power companies pick up old fridges.
- City appliance or bulk pickup, which handles refrigerant recovery.
- Scrap recyclers that are set up to recover refrigerant.
Typical appliance weights
EPA's conversion factors list about 250 lb for a refrigerator, 150 lb for a washer or stove and 125 lb for a dryer or dishwasher (US EPA: volume-to-weight conversion factors (2016)).
Local drop-off sites
Each of our city guides lists the official household hazardous waste and drop-off option: New YorkLos AngelesChicagoHoustonPhiladelphiaSan AntonioSan DiegoAustinSeattleSan FranciscoDenverWashingtonBostonMinneapolisPortlandNashvillePittsburghAtlantaColumbusIndianapolisCharlotteTampaKansas CitySt. LouisDetroitMilwaukeeSacramentoCincinnatiChattanooga.
Questions
Can I put a refrigerator in a dumpster?
Usually not unless a certified technician has recovered the refrigerant, because federal rules prohibit venting it during disposal (US EPA: appliance disposal (refrigerant)). Use a retailer, utility or city appliance program instead.