Fridge Disposal

Overview

• Disconnect, move and hand over an unwanted fridge/freezer for lawful WEEE recycling without damaging your home.

• Skill level 2 / 5 (confident beginner with a helper)

• Typical duration 1–2 hours hands‑on

Safety First

1. Unplug from the mains and allow 24 h to fully defrost—water plus electricity is a shock hazard.

2. Wear cut‑resistant gloves; sheet‑metal edges and coil fins are sharp.

3. Lift with a second adult and use an appliance dolly—units can weigh 50–120 kg.

4. Keep the appliance upright; tilting > 40 ° may force compressor oil into coolant lines.

5. Ventilate if you smell chemical refrigerant—modern HFCs are low‑toxicity but can displace oxygen.

   
   

Tools & Materials

Step‑by‑Step

1. Empty, defrost and clean

Why: Prevents leaks, odours and additional weight during transport.

2. Disconnect power and plumbing

Why: Ensures safe handling; stops residual water from ice‑makers spilling.

3. Measure exit route

Why: Confirms the appliance fits through doors and around corners without damage.

4. Protect surroundings

Why: Cardboard on floors and blankets on corners prevent scuffs and cracked tiles.

5. Load onto appliance dolly

Why: Reduces strain and maintains upright position for compressor oil.

6. Navigate stairs and thresholds

Why: Controlled descent avoids dropping and injury.

7. Secure for transport or kerbside collection

Why: Prevents tipping in the van or during council pickup.

8. Deliver to authorised treatment facility (ATF) or book council/retailer collection

Why: UK law (WEEE Regulations) requires degassing and recycling by licensed operators.

9. Final tidy‑up

Why: Stops puddles and leaves the space ready for the replacement appliance.

Completion Checks

• Outlet visibly unplugged; no live cables.

• Floors, walls and skirting unscathed along the removal path.

• Fridge upright and strapped for transport or awaiting scheduled collection.

• Waste‑transfer note or collection reference logged for your records.

  
  

When to call a pro instead

If the appliance is on an upper floor without a lift, is an American‑style side‑by‑side exceeding 120 kg, or you suspect refrigerant leakage, hire a licensed waste‑disposal contractor who supplies the manpower, specialised stair‑climbing equipment and certified degassing to ensure full legal compliance and avoid personal injury.