Scrap Value of Old Appliances: Complete Breakdown
"I have a dead refrigerator and washing machine. Are they worth scrapping or should I just pay for junk removal?"
Don't pay for junk removal — scrap them. A refrigerator yields $15–$40 sold whole or $40–$80 torn down (compressor motor, copper lines, steel). A washing machine yields $10–$25 whole or $20–$50 torn down (motor, stainless drum if present). Always check if the drum is stainless — it's worth $8–$15 alone.
Old appliances are worth money — but only if you know what to pull out and what to sell whole. This guide breaks down the scrap value of every major household appliance.
Refrigerator Scrap Value
Sold whole: $15–$35 (light steel + compressor). Torn down: compressor motor $3–$8, copper refrigerant lines $3–$8, steel body $5–$15, aluminum evaporator coil $3–$8. Total torn down: $14–$39. Note: refrigerant must be legally recovered before scrapping.
Washing Machine Scrap Value
Sold whole: $10–$25. Torn down: electric motor $3–$10, stainless steel drum (if present) $8–$15, steel body $5–$15. Total torn down: $16–$40. Check if the inner drum is stainless — use a magnet. If the magnet doesn't stick, it's stainless and worth separating.
Dryer Scrap Value
Sold whole: $8–$20. Torn down: electric motor $2–$5, steel body $5–$12. Gas dryers have a brass gas valve worth $2–$4. Total torn down: $9–$21. Dryers have less valuable metal than washers.
Dishwasher Scrap Value
Sold whole: $5–$15. The inner tub may be stainless (check with magnet). Stainless tub: $5–$10 separate. Electric motor: $2–$5. Total: $7–$25 torn down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are old appliances worth scrapping?
Yes. A refrigerator is worth $15–$80 depending on whether you tear it down. Never pay for junk removal when you can scrap it instead.
How do I know if my washer drum is stainless?
Use a magnet. If it doesn't stick, the drum is stainless steel and worth $8–$15 separately.
Do I need to remove refrigerant before scrapping a refrigerator?
Yes. Refrigerant must be recovered by an EPA 608-certified technician. Most appliance scrap yards handle this for you.
Do you pick up old appliances?
Yes, for commercial quantities (10+ appliances). Call (754) 310-2984.