Replacing Your Microwave? Here’s How to Safely Get Rid of Your Old One

For countless households across the country, the microwave provides a vital role in cooking food quickly and safely. In some of these homes, the microwave may be the only reliable source of heating food for safe consumption. When this appliance fails to a degree beyond the capabilities of an experienced microwave repair specialist, owners will need to consider purchasing a replacement.

Deciding what to do with your old microwave can be a complicated issue. While the reflexive decision may be to simply put it out on the curb with your other trash, it is important to consider the global problem of electronic waste, or “e-waste” for short.

Since electronic devices cannot decompose, appliances such as microwaves will sit in a landfill forever. Data suggest that in 2019, 40 percent of the heavy metals in American landfills came from discarded electronics.

There are other options for microwave owners when it comes to disposing of their old appliances. These options are increased when the microwave is still in somewhat of a working condition. Read on for more information about safely disposing of your old microwave.

Explore Take-Back Programs from the Manufacturer

For many of the most common microwave manufacturers, a take-back program allows them to save money on production by reusing working components of old models and then safely disposing of the rest. Sometimes, an appliance that was thought to be beyond repair can actually be brought back to life through the resources of the manufacturer’s microwave repair team and resold on a secondary market.

If you still have your microwave’s manual, it is likely to include information about any manufacturer buy-back programs. If you don’t have the manual, you can call or email the customer support number for the manufacturer and get this information. Although you may need to pay shipping costs, the manufacturer will often offer reimbursement for these costs to ensure the appliance is shipped securely.

Look into Local Retail Stores

Some retail stores (and especially electronics stores) are often willing to accept old microwaves and other used appliances. Some of the metals used in certain electronic components can be surprisingly expensive, and any opportunity to recycle these components from other appliances will result in a cost savings for the store.

Do a quick online search for local stores and electronics retailers in your area, then call to see if they accept used appliances for reuse and/or recycling. Sometimes, stores will only accept relatively newer models because they tend to have more of the expensive components inside.

Check with Local Appliance Repair Shops

Businesses that specialize in appliance repair are likely going to be willing to take older appliances off of your hands for the same reasons as the other options listed above. In some instances, these repair specialists may even be able to repair the issues that led you to ditch the appliance in the first place.

Contact Your Local Utility Provider

Many older appliances draw much more power than newer, more energy-efficient models. Microwaves are no exception, and many local utility providers are more than willing to take these older electricity draining machines off your hands so that you can purchase a more efficient appliance. Some providers will even offer cash rebates or discounts towards the purchase of the replacement appliance, provided it meets the commonly-recognized “Energy Star” certification for efficiency.

Sell or Donate a Working Microwave

If your microwave still works and you are simply in the market for a replacement, consider selling the older appliance or donating it to a local organization. Sites such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay make it easier than ever to sell used goods.

While selling is an option, the resale value you will likely realize for used microwaves is probably fairly minimal. It may be more rewarding for you to instead donate the working microwave to a local organization that needs it. Local shelters, transitional housing programs, and other social service agencies are always in need of extra resources, and may be able to pass the appliance along to a family that really needs one.

If you’re not quite ready to get rid of your microwave, call Diamond Factory Appliance for microwave repair in Kansas City, St. Louis, or nearby. We repair many major brands of microwaves and can provide you with fast service to get you back in business. Check out our website for more information and give us a call today.