Did you know that 30 million microwaves are globally purchased each year? While we know a lot about consumer habits, many people do not know how to dispose of a microwave.
What happens to the millions of microwaves that are replaced each year? Whether it is broken or old, there is a proper way to throw out your microwave. Read on for a guide on how to dispose of a microwave.
Check Your City’s Website to Learn How to Dispose of a Microwave
Believe it or not, many cities and counties publish directions for microwave disposal. The municipality often processes old or broken microwaves via its recycling department.
In cases like these, microwave recycling is as simple as dropping your unit at the designated center. There are exceptions in which the city or township requires an appointment to drop off appliances. An added bonus is that this service is typically free of charge.
State and Local Laws Drive the Recycling Process
The requirement to recycle old and broken appliances often flows down from higher levels of government. This means that the federal or state government passed a regulation specifying how to dispose of appliances.
At the local level, there may be ordinances that govern appliance disposal. The government wants to ensure that the metals used to construct the microwave are recycled properly.
In addition, there are sometimes hazardous materials within the unit. For these reasons, local governments contract recycling services out to specialists. These contractors are responsible for recycling discarded microwaves in a manner that is best for the environment.
The process begins with the collection of old and broken microwaves by the local government. The recycling contractor then picks up the inventory on a fixed schedule, perhaps once or twice a month.
What Are Some Other Recycling Options?
Depending on where you live, there is a possibility that your local government does not accept microwaves for disposal. Many people discover this unfortunate fact when they put the discarded unit out on the curb.
The local recycling department refuses to pick it up. Next, your attempts to drop it off at the recycling center are rejected. So what do you do next?
First, you should contact the microwave manufacturer. They can point you in the right direction. Some manufacturers, like Hamilton Beach, accept non-functioning microwaves for proper disposal.
If that does not work, there are environmental groups that can help. Start off by using online resources to find recycling centers.
Greener Gadgets and Earth911 both provide search engines to locate recycling centers. You can simply enter your zip code and find a drop-off location that is within driving distance.
Wrapping It Up
The last thing you want is a discarded microwave sitting on your curb for weeks. Not only is this unsightly, but it is not good for the environment.
Instead, place a call to your local government to see how the recycling department processes appliances. If that does not work, reach out to the manufacturer or use online resources to find a recycling center.
If you enjoyed this article about how to dispose of a microwave, please check out our website for other great microwave pieces.
