Appliance salvage yards are places that buy old appliances and some sell used parts. Most appliance salvages these days are online only, but there are still some places to physically visit. In this article I will share where to sell your appliances, where to get parts, and how the appliance salvage yards near me work.
Map of Appliance Salvage Yards Near Me
For “Appliance Salvage Yards Near Me”, “Appliance Recycling Near Me” or “Appliance Junk Yards Near Me”, see the map below…
Most large appliances have a lifespan of 10 to 20 years. Even when they die they can live on through recycling the metal or reusing the parts. According to the EPA they said of major appliances, “In 2018, generation was 5.3 million tons, or 1.8 percent of total MSW generation. While the number of units of appliances is higher than previous years, the average weight per unit is lower.”
Operations of Appliance Salvage Yards
Appliance salvages and appliance recycling yards come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some are places that collect old appliances and then sell used parts. Other places are scrap yards and landfills that have junked appliances you can pick through and pull parts off of. All of them serve a greater good for the recycling industry.
With the exception of some landfills, which can be state run, most of these salvage yards are private businesses. Their primary driver of revenue is either selling the appliances for scrap metal, refurbishing them for resale, or selling them for used parts.
One of the environmental challenges these places face is dealing with Freon and other hazardous chemicals in refrigerators and air conditioners. Before a major appliance can be scrapped a licensed technician must drain all hazardous chemicals. This must be done because if these chemicals were to get into the local ground water it would be dangerous to the surrounding communities.
Different Kinds of Appliance Salvage
As mentioned above 3 types of business can fall in the category of an appliance salvo…
Appliance Salvage Yards
Also called appliance junkyards or appliance scrap yards. These are your traditional salvages. They buy used, old, or junk appliances and then sell the functioning parts to make a profit. Some places have an actual salvage yard you can visit, but many these days just sell parts online.
Scrap Metal Plants
Places who buy scrap metal are also considered salvages for appliances. These businesses however only operate in one direction, they buy, but don’t sell. Scrap metal places are interested in the metal on your unit. They will sell the scrap metal to a refinery that will melt down the metal and reuse it for new products.
Some yards will pay you a fixed price based on the type of appliance. Others will pay you based on the type of metal from your appliance. Scrap metal plants are a good option to sell an appliance that doesn’t work. Since many appliances are made out of steel it is a primary way to get paid for old appliances and recycle at the same time.
Landfills and Dumps
We should always try and avoid taking anything to the landfill or the dumps these days. It’s really not good for the environment. However, a landfill or a dump is like a secret appliance salvage yard. These facilities will have a designated area where people drop off junked appliances. Here you can actually go and pick parts of these machines and reuse them.
Recently I did this at the landfill near me and pulled out a drum for a Maytag Dryer and all the bearings to replace my parts at home. It cost me $0.
Why Buy Used Parts for Home Appliances?
When you get used parts you can save a lot of money and you are supporting the environment. At the appliance salvage yards near me, parts are usually about 70% cheaper than buying new ones. You may even be able to find free parts if you visit your landfill or local dump.
While the quality of the part of course could be a concern, it is better than getting after market parts. When you get used parts for your home appliances, 99% of the time they have been factory-installed and are the original manufacturer parts.
What Kind of Domestic Appliances Can You Find?
You can find all of the common types of home appliances that you would expect:
Large Appliances
- Refrigerators
- Washer and Dryers
- Dishwashers
- Freezers
- Water heaters
- HVAC’s
- Air Conditioning Units
- Mini Fridges
- Wine Fridges
- Microwaves
- TV’s
Small Appliances
- Toasters
- Hair Dryers
- Electric Coffee Pots
The brands, models, and years will vary. You can find it through all the majors like Maytag, Jenn-Air, Whirlpool, Kitchen Aid, Amana, BSH, Haier-GE, Electrolux, and more.
Be warned though…sometimes going to these places is a shot in the dark. If you have an appliance junkyard in your area, it’s honestly better to call ahead and see if they have what you need. There is much organization at these places, which makes it challenging. It’s probably why many of them just sell parts online these days. The appliance salvage yards near me are a total mess, have no organization, hard to walk through, and take some luck.
Appliance Restorations
If you are a restoration company, these places are gold mines for old units. You can find an old fridge from the 1950s and bring it back to life. In many cases, you may even be able to get these units for free. There is a huge business in the restoration of vintage appliances. These salvages are the ideal place to find your next restoration project.
Who Buys Old Appliances?
If you have old appliances to sell there are two main options. Scrap metal yards and sell them on your own. The general rule of thumb is that if the appliance works sell it yourself, if not, take it to a scrap yard. If you are selling a unit keep your expectations reasonable for how much money you can get. A 350lb refrigerator will bring home about $50 at a scrap metal place. For more info and options we have a much more detailed article on who buys old appliances.
There are some places like your local recycling center that may take your unit for free if you are just looking to get rid of it.
Appliance Recycling at Work
There is a business called the Appliance Warehouse, they have a good video that hits on the ins and outs of recycling major appliances and how the industry works.
Appliance Salvage Yards Near Me – Conclusion
Whether you need parts, want a restoration project, or looking to junk your appliance these places are great options. While each place really isn’t a one-size-fits-all you can find an opportunity to get what you need or get rid of what you don’t want. By supporting these businesses, you are helping create sustainability and reducing the need for new parts to be manufactured. Also, it’s an opportunity to save a lot of money and possibly get used appliance parts for free if you know where to look for them. That’s what I have learned from the appliance salvage yards near me.
FAQs about Appliance Salvage Yards Near Me
What is an appliance salvage yard?
An appliance salvage yard is a place where used or old appliances, such as washing machines and air conditioners, are collected, refurbished, and resold. It’s a great place to find affordable appliances and parts.
Can I find replacement parts for my old appliance at an appliance salvage yard?
Yes, appliance salvage yards are often a great resource for finding replacement parts for your old appliance. They may have a wide variety of spare parts that can help extend the lifespan of your existing appliances.
Why should I consider buying from an appliance salvage yard?
Appliance salvage yards offer budget-friendly options for both larger and smaller appliances. You can often find high-quality appliances at a fraction of the cost of new ones.
Do salvage yards offer fast shipping for purchased appliances or parts?
Shipping policies can vary from salvage yard to salvage yard. Some may offer fast shipping options, while others may have longer lead times. It’s advisable to check with the specific salvage yard regarding their shipping policies.
Can a junk removal company pick up and dispose of my larger appliances for me?
Yes, many junk removal companies offer services to pick up and properly dispose of larger appliances, making it a convenient option for homeowners looking to get rid of old refrigerators, stoves, or other bulky items.
Are salvage yards a suitable option for purchasing larger appliances like refrigerators or ovens?
Absolutely! Salvage yards often have a selection of larger appliances, including refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers, which can be a cost-effective choice when you’re looking to replace or upgrade your kitchen or laundry appliances.
