When it’s time to replace your refrigerator, stove, or washer, the excitement of a new upgrade often comes with one big question: what do I do with the old one?

Appliances are large, heavy, and often full of materials that can’t just be tossed into the trash. Many contain refrigerants, oils, or electrical components that require proper disposal under Florida law. That’s why professional appliance removal in Fort Myers has become such a critical service for homeowners, landlords, and businesses.

This guide explains how to safely remove and dispose of household appliances, what local recycling options exist, and why hiring a licensed hauler can save you time, money, and hassle.

Why Proper Appliance Disposal Matters

Most household appliances contain chemicals or components that can be harmful if not handled correctly. When dumped illegally or sent to the wrong facility, they can leak substances like Freon, mercury, or motor oil into the soil and water.

Improper appliance disposal can lead to:

• Environmental contamination from refrigerants and heavy metals.

• Legal fines or penalties for violating waste regulations.

• Fire hazards or injury from incorrect disassembly.

• Wasted recyclable materials like aluminum, copper, and steel.

By recycling or disposing of appliances through certified services, you help protect the environment and ensure compliance with local and federal guidelines.

1: Identify What Type of Appliance You’re Removing

Different appliances require different handling methods. Here’s a breakdown of how major household items are treated:

Refrigerators & Freezers

Contain refrigerants (CFCs or HFCs) that must be professionally drained before recycling. Compressors also contain valuable copper and aluminum components that can be reused.

Washers & Dryers

Mostly made of metal and wiring, these are recyclable but heavy. Electric dryers can be recycled entirely, while gas models require safe valve disconnection.

Ovens & Stoves

Contain heating elements and metal casings. Glass stovetops and insulation materials may need special handling.

Dishwashers & Microwaves

Contain electronics, stainless steel, and sometimes refrigerants in older models.

Each type has its own set of environmental and safety considerations, making professional appliance removal services the best option for safe, efficient disposal.

2: Check If Your Appliance Can Be Donated or Reused

If your appliance still works, consider donating it. Many charities and community programs accept working refrigerators, washers, and stoves for families in need.

Local Donation Options in Fort Myers:

1. Habitat for Humanity ReStore – Accepts functioning refrigerators, washers, dryers, and stoves. Offers scheduled pickups for large donations.

2. Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida – Accepts small and large appliances that are in working order.

3. Local Churches & Shelters – Some community organizations furnish transitional housing with donated appliances.

Important: Appliances must be clean, operational, and free of leaks or rust. Charities cannot accept broken or damaged items.

If it’s beyond repair, move on to recycling or disposal.

3: Recycle When Possible

Nearly all large appliances can be recycled. Most are 75–90% metal, and their parts can be reused in new manufacturing.

Recyclable Components Include:

• Steel & Aluminum: Used for new appliance shells or industrial parts.

• Copper Wiring: Recovered for electrical manufacturing.

• Plastic Housing: Reprocessed into consumer goods.

• Glass Panels: Recycled for insulation or new glass products.

Where to Recycle Appliances in Fort Myers:

• Lee County Solid Waste – Topaz Court Facility (Fort Myers): Accepts large household appliances for recycling or proper disposal.

• Local scrap metal recycling centers: Often pay small amounts for large metal appliances.

• Licensed junk removal services: Eco-friendly companies like Pure Disposal partner with certified recyclers to divert materials from landfills.

4: Schedule Curbside or Bulk Pickup

Some municipalities offer bulk waste collection for large household items, including appliances.

Fort Myers Bulk Pickup Overview

• Limited to 1–2 large items per scheduled collection.

• Refrigerators must have doors removed and refrigerant drained before pickup.

• Must schedule pickup in advance through the city’s Solid Waste Division.

• Items must be curbside by 6 a.m. on collection day.

Because these pickups are infrequent and limited, most homeowners prefer to hire a private appliance removal company for faster, full-service handling.

5: Hire a Professional Appliance Removal Service

Professional junk removal companies are the safest and most efficient option for disposing of heavy or hazardous appliances.

Why Choose Professional Appliance Removal in Fort Myers:

• Safety: Avoid back injuries or property damage from heavy lifting.

• Environmental responsibility: Haulers drain, sort, and recycle properly.

• Convenience: Same-day or next-day service available across SWFL.

• Compliance: Meets EPA and Florida DEP regulations for refrigerants and electronics.

• Transparency: Clear, upfront pricing based on item size or truck volume.

Pure Disposal provides professional appliance removal in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, Sanibel, Captiva, and Lee County, ensuring all items are handled legally and sustainably.

6: Prepare Your Appliance for Pickup

Whether using county collection or a private hauler, preparation ensures safety and efficiency.

Before pickup:

1. Unplug and defrost refrigerators or freezers at least 24 hours in advance.

2. Disconnect water or gas lines.

3. Remove all food, shelves, or personal items.

4. Tape doors shut to prevent accidents.

5. Move appliances to an accessible area if possible.

Professional teams handle the rest—from lifting to transport to recycling.

7: Understand Appliance Disposal Costs

Pricing depends on size, location, and number of appliances.

Many services offer discounts when bundling multiple items or adding furniture/junk removal to the same visit.

8: Avoid Illegal Dumping or DIY Removal

Improper disposal isn’t just bad for the environment—it’s against the law.

Illegal Dumping Risks:

• Fines up to $500 or more for abandoned appliances.

• Environmental damage from leaking refrigerants or oils.

• Safety hazards for children and wildlife.

DIY removal is also risky without proper tools or transport vehicles. Heavy appliances can easily cause injuries or property damage.

Hiring a certified removal team ensures compliance, safety, and peace of mind.

9: What Happens to Appliances After Removal

Once collected, appliances go through a multi-stage process:

1. De-manufacturing: Components like Freon or mercury switches are safely removed.

2. Material separation: Metals, plastics, and glass are sorted for recycling.

3. Recycling or resale: Usable parts are resold or repurposed.

4. Safe disposal: Non-recyclable parts are sent to regulated waste facilities.

This process ensures every appliance is handled in a way that meets environmental and safety standards.

Eco-Friendly Appliance Disposal: Why It Matters

By choosing sustainable removal, you help protect Florida’s unique environment—from its wetlands and waterways to its wildlife.

Environmental Benefits:

• Prevents refrigerant leaks that harm the ozone layer.

• Reduces landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

• Conserves natural resources through metal recycling.

• Promotes circular economy practices across the state.

Pure Disposal diverts tons of metal and appliances from landfills each year through responsible partnerships with certified recycling centers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put a refrigerator on the curb for pickup?

Only if it’s drained of refrigerant and doors removed—and scheduled with your waste department. Otherwise, hire a professional hauler.

Do junk removal companies recycle appliances?

Yes. Reputable services like Pure Disposal recycle metal and recover refrigerants before disposal.

Is appliance removal expensive?

Not at all. Most pickups in Fort Myers cost between $75–$150, depending on size and number of items.

Can I donate a working refrigerator or washer?

Yes, as long as it’s in good condition and fully functional. Call donation centers to confirm acceptance.

What if my appliance contains Freon?

Only certified technicians can remove and recycle Freon. Never attempt to drain it yourself.

Final Thoughts

Appliance removal doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. Whether you’re replacing a fridge, remodeling a kitchen, or clearing out old laundry machines, knowing how to dispose of appliances safely and legally protects both your home and the planet.

By choosing eco-friendly appliance removal in Fort Myers, you ensure that metals, plastics, and refrigerants are recycled properly instead of ending up in landfills.

Pure Disposal provides reliable, licensed, and sustainable hauling across Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, and Lee County, helping homeowners reclaim space quickly and responsibly.