Published June 11, 2026 • ScrapMetalBuyers.com

Is It Worth Scrapping an AC Unit or Old Appliance? (2026 Value Guide)

Old AC units, refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers are a goldmine of scrap metal if you know what's inside them. Here's a complete breakdown of what each appliance contains and what you can expect to get paid.

What's Inside a Central AC Unit?

A central air conditioning system (condenser unit) typically contains:

• Copper refrigerant lines: 5–15 lbs of copper pipe (Copper #1 or #2)
• Aluminum/copper coil (ACR): The condenser coil — aluminum fins with copper tubing. Pays $1.50–$2.20/lb as a unit.
• Electric motor (compressor): 20–40 lbs of electric motor. Pays $0.15–$0.30/lb whole, more if stripped.
• Aluminum fan blade and housing: 5–15 lbs of aluminum. Pays $0.50–$0.80/lb.
• Steel cabinet: 20–50 lbs of light steel. Pays $0.05–$0.10/lb.
• Copper wiring: 1–3 lbs of insulated copper wire.

Total scrap value of a typical 3-ton central AC unit: $35–$80 depending on how much you dismantle it.

What's Inside a Window AC Unit?

• Aluminum/copper coil: 3–8 lbs
• Small electric motor: 2–5 lbs
• Aluminum housing: 5–10 lbs
• Steel: 10–20 lbs

Total value: $8–$25 depending on condition and dismantling.

What's Inside a Refrigerator?

• Compressor motor: 15–25 lbs. Pays $0.15–$0.30/lb whole.
• Copper refrigerant line: 1–3 lbs of copper tubing.
• Aluminum condenser coil: 3–8 lbs.
• Steel cabinet: 80–120 lbs. Pays $0.05–$0.10/lb.

Total value: $15–$35 for a typical refrigerator. Note: Refrigerants must be legally recovered before scrapping — many yards require a certification sticker.

What's Inside a Washing Machine / Dryer?

• Electric motor: 10–20 lbs. Pays $0.15–$0.25/lb.
• Steel drum and cabinet: 60–100 lbs of steel.
• Copper wiring: 1–2 lbs.
• Stainless steel drum (some models): 10–20 lbs at $0.30–$0.50/lb.

Total value: $8–$20 for a typical washer or dryer.

Should You Dismantle or Sell As-Is?

For a single appliance, selling as-is saves time. For multiple units or if you have the tools, dismantling pays significantly more. The key separations that add value:

1. Remove the compressor motor and sell separately
2. Cut out the copper refrigerant lines
3. Separate the ACR coil from the steel cabinet

For large quantities of appliances (10+ units), contact ScrapMetalBuyers.com at 954-488-0700 — we offer free pickup and above-market pricing for bulk appliance lots.

FAQ

1. Do I need to remove the refrigerant before scrapping an AC unit?

Yes. EPA regulations require refrigerant to be recovered by a certified technician before scrapping. Many HVAC contractors will do this for free if you're replacing the unit. Some scrap yards accept units with a signed statement that refrigerant has been removed.

2. What's the most valuable part of an AC unit to scrap?

The ACR (aluminum/copper radiator) coil and the copper refrigerant lines are the most valuable components by weight. The compressor motor is also worth separating.

3. Can I scrap a refrigerator with food still in it?

Clean it out first. Yards won't accept appliances with food or liquids inside.

4. Is it legal to scrap AC units?

Yes, but some states require ID and documentation. Stolen AC units are a common problem, so yards are cautious. Keep any receipts or documentation of ownership.

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