How to get rid of an old refrigerator in Northern Virginia

Why fridges are different

Refrigerators, freezers, dehumidifiers and window AC units hold refrigerant that has to be recovered before the metal is recycled. Disposal sites charge a separate fee for it, and trash companies won't take these with regular trash.

Your options in Fairfax County

• Drop-off: $15 per refrigerant appliance at the I-66 Transfer Station (4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax) or I-95 Landfill Complex in Lorton.
• County special pickup: county collection customers can request a refrigerant pickup at 703-802-3322 or online, up to five free per fiscal year.
• Store haul-away: many appliance stores take the old one when they deliver the new one. Ask before you buy, since some charge for it.
• Sell it: a working fridge often sells quickly on local listings if it's clean.

Before it goes

• Empty it and unplug it a day early so the freezer can defrost and drain.
• Tape the doors shut for the move.
• Shut off and disconnect the water line if it has an ice maker.
• Measure the doorways. Most fridges need the doors taken off to get through a 30-inch opening.

Having it picked up

We carry it out, including from basements and up stairs, and take it to a facility that recovers the refrigerant. A fridge or freezer on its own is $119. In a larger load it's +$30 on top of the load price.

Questions