A Homeowner’s Guide To Proper White Goods Disposal

There’s no doubt that electronic appliances have made people’s lives easier, more convenient, and even smarter. Appliances like air conditioners, cooking ranges, refrigerators, and washing machines have become necessities that no modern household can live without.

But then again, has it ever crossed your mind what happens to these appliances once they’ve become outdated or dysfunctional? Most likely, they’ll go to landfills. When disposed of improperly, they pose potential harm to the ozone layer because of the hazardous elements and materials such as cadmium, lead, and mercury used in manufacturing them.

What Are White Goods?

White goods are called that way because these home appliances are usually white in colour. Manufacturers used to coat large electrical goods in white enamel, which prompted the use of the term. The most common white goods people use today are:

  • Refrigerators
  • Air conditioners
  • Deep freezers
  • Washing machines
  • Ovens
  • Stoves
  • Clothes dryers

Although the colours of these appliances now vary, it’s still appropriate to refer to them as white goods, and they must be disposed of correctly.

Proper White Goods Disposal

When not discarded safely, old appliances can harm the environment. These items aren’t biodegradable, and because of their size, they’ll take up a lot of space in landfills for as long as they’re there, which is forever. Imagine how much room would be taken up if every household disposes of at least one major appliance every few months or so, and consider the fact that landfills don’t provide unlimited space.

That being said, homeowners should follow the right methods of getting rid of white goods. Here are some tips you can start with:

  1. Hire A Rubbish Removal Company

The easiest and most convenient way to let go of your old or broken appliances is to request the services of a junk removal company. This option is ideal when getting rid of large household items such as white goods.

You just need to get in touch with one in your location and ask for a free quotation. Companies like Dirt Cheap Rubbish Removal offer same-day removal, which is perfect if you want to dispose of white goods immediately so you can replace them afterwards. They’ll carry the appliances out of your property and bring them to their truck, so you don’t have to worry about heavy lifting and such.

2. Donate Them To Charity

Appliances that are still in working condition don’t need to be discarded instantly. If you know of a charitable organisation that accepts donations, you can contact them and inquire if they accept old but functional appliances.

If you’re not familiar with such establishments, you can ask around or search on the internet. Your old items can be of great help to low-income households, orphanages, and homeless shelters.

3. Sell Them For Cash

You can also consider selling the appliances instead of donating or getting rid of them. Perhaps you’re about to move out and you can only bring a limited number of items—it would then be best to sell your white goods and get extra cash you can use for your moving expenses.

Ask your friends or relatives nearby if they’ll be willing to buy your refrigerator, washing machine, oven, or anything else you’re planning to dispose of. If you want, you can publish a post on social media platforms such as Facebook regarding the items you’re putting up for sale. Post photos of each appliance along with their price, their condition, and your location.

4. Contact Your City Waste Management Office

If you’re still unsure of what to do with your white goods, you can reach out to the waste management office of your city or municipality. Ask if there are any specific laws or rules pertaining to the proper disposal of white goods in your area. They might also be able to tell you about a designated area where you can drop off white goods for disposal.

5. Call The Retailer Or Manufacturer Of The Appliances

If you’re replacing old or broken appliances with new ones, you can ask the retailer or manufacturer if they also offer pickup or disposal services for used white goods from their brand. If they say yes, they should pick up your old appliances upon delivery of your new ones. Make it a point to ask if there are any fees you need to pay for the service.

Responsibly Dealing With White Goods

It’s challenging not to own and use electronic appliances at home. Without them, people would have an uncomfortable and stressful life. Though you’ll have to replace them after many years of use, you can still protect the environment by knowing how to properly and responsibly dispose of them.

Hopefully, this list has helped you understand more about white goods disposal. Upon buying new appliances, take care of them and use them accordingly in order to extend their life. That way, you won’t have to worry about throwing them away often.