Refrigerator Disposal Guide
Refrigerators and freezers contain hazardous materials like refrigerants and foam blowing agents that require special handling. These appliances must be properly degassed by licensed professionals before recycling.
Environmental Considerations
Refrigerators and freezers contain refrigerants that can be harmful to the environment if released. These gases (such as HFCs) can have a global warming potential thousands of times greater than CO2. Additionally, the foam insulation in older models may contain ozone-depleting substances.
Important Handling Precautions
- Refrigerant gas must be safely recovered by licensed technicians
- Doors should be removed or securely taped shut for safety
- Do not damage cooling circuits or compressors during handling
- Keep upright during transport to prevent oil leakage
- Remove all food and thoroughly clean before disposal
Preparation Steps
Before disposing of your refrigerator, follow these steps:
Disconnect from power and remove power cord if possible
Remove all food and shelving that can be easily removed
Defrost completely and thoroughly clean with disinfectant
Secure or remove doors to prevent hazards to children
Do not attempt to remove refrigerant yourself - this requires licensed technicians
Consider Repair First: Before disposing of your refrigerator, consider whether it could be repaired. Contact us for an assessment.
How Refrigerators Are Recycled
When a refrigerator is recycled, it goes through a systematic disassembly process to recover valuable materials and safely dispose of any hazardous components. Here's what happens when you recycle your refrigerator:
Materials Recovered
A typical refrigerator can be broken down into these recyclable components:
- Metals (steel outer casing, copper tubing, aluminum components)
- Glass (shelving)
- Plastic (interior lining, drawers, door liners)
- Refrigerant gases
- Compressor and cooling system
- Electrical components
Disposal Facility Requirements
Ensure the facility accepts refrigerators and has proper equipment to safely remove refrigerants. Most major waste management facilities and recycling centers in Perth have this capability.
Always call ahead to confirm a facility accepts your specific appliance type and to ask about any preparation requirements.
Where to Dispose of Your Refrigerator in Perth
The following facilities in Perth accept refrigerators for proper disposal and recycling. Always call ahead to confirm operating hours and any special requirements.
Balcatta Recycling Centre
Address: 238 Balcatta Road, Balcatta WA 6021
Phone: (08) 9345 8555
Note: Accepts all types of whitegoods. Proof of City of Stirling residency required.
Henderson Waste Recovery Park
Address: 920 Rockingham Road, Henderson WA 6166
Phone: (08) 9411 3444
Note: Includes reuse shop for working appliances. Accepts all major whitegoods.
Tamala Park Waste Management Facility
Address: 1700 Marmion Avenue, Tamala Park WA 6030
Phone: (08) 9306 6303
Note: Serves multiple council areas. Accepts all types of whitegoods.
Red Hill Waste Management Facility
Address: 1094 Toodyay Road, Red Hill WA 6056
Phone: (08) 9574 6235
Note: Services multiple shires in eastern region. Accepts all whitegoods.
Armadale Landfill and Recycling Facility
Address: Hopkinson Road, Hilbert WA 6112
Phone: (08) 9399 6645
Note: Accepts all major whitegoods. Proof of City of Armadale residency may be required.
Cockburn Resource Recovery Centre
Address: 685 Cockburn Road, Henderson WA 6166
Phone: (08) 9411 3444
Note: Accepts all types of whitegoods. Electronic waste and large appliances are recycled through their dedicated facility.
Canning Waste Transfer Station
Address: 81 Ranford Road, Canning Vale WA 6155
Phone: (08) 9256 0555
Note: Accepts whitegoods from City of Canning residents. Electronic waste is processed separately.
Western Metropolitan Regional Council Recycling Centre
Address: Brockway Road, Shenton Park WA 6008
Phone: (08) 9384 4003
Note: Accepts whitegoods and prioritizes recycling components. Serves western suburbs of Perth.
JFR (Jim) McGeough Resource Recovery Facility
Address: 39 Kenhelm Street, Baldivis WA 6171
Phone: (08) 9528 8550
Note: Accepts all whitegoods and large electrical appliances. Operated by the City of Rockingham.
Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council Red Hill Facility
Address: 1094 Toodyay Road, Red Hill WA 6056
Phone: (08) 9424 2222
Note: Comprehensive facility accepting all whitegoods. Services multiple eastern metropolitan councils.
Mandurah Waste Management Centre
Address: 80 Corsican Way, Parklands WA 6210
Phone: (08) 9550 3777
Note: Accepts all household whitegoods. Located south of Perth metro area but serves many southern communities.
Mindarie Regional Council Recycling Centre
Address: 100 Pederick Road, Neerabup WA 6031
Phone: (08) 9306 6303
Note: Specialized in resource recovery and recycling of all appliance types. Serves northern Perth suburbs.
Alternative Disposal Options
Reuse & Donation
If your refrigerator is still in working condition, consider donating it to charity organizations or selling it through online marketplaces. Some retailers also offer trade-in programs when purchasing a new appliance.
Donation Options:
- Salvos Stores (Salvation Army)
- Good Sammy
- Local community groups
Council Collection
Many Perth councils offer bulk waste collections that accept whitegoods. These services are typically offered 1-2 times per year or may be available on-demand for a small fee.
Steps to use this service:
- Contact your local council to confirm collection dates or schedule a pickup
- Prepare your refrigerator according to council guidelines
- Place the appliance on your verge at the specified time
Need Help With Your Appliance?
Not sure whether to repair or replace? Contact our expert technicians for an honest assessment of your appliance.
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