What exactly are white goods? You might have been heard this term before in relation to department store sales, but it’s now commonly used to refer to major home appliances such as stoves and refrigerators. These products take up quite a bit of space in our homes, and it’s important to prevent them from overloading landfills. Fortunately, there are local programs and websites that can help you unload unwanted household appliances.
Selling and giving away
Getting rid of your white goods is easy if they’re still in good shape. A washer-and-dryer duo costs a pretty penny these days, so consumers are looking for inexpensive replacements. If you have working white goods, first try to sell or give them away to someone who can use them. When friends and family see no use for your appliances, you can connect with people on Craigslist or Freecycle. Other options include putting a simple advertisement in your local newspaper or spreading the news by word of mouth.
Drop it off
In the case when your appliance just doesn’t function at all anymore, you’re going to want to wash your hands of it quick. In some states like North Carolina, these products are
no longer accepted in landfills.
It’s wise to conduct online research in your area, because
every program is different. Some charge fees while others don’t, and some pick up while others will only drop off.
Start with your municipal solid waste website, and if you don’t find anything there, check a local park or fairground. Before dropping off your white goods, make sure they are clean and free from any hazardous materials.
Buying new
At some point, the time is going to come for you to replace your white goods with more energy-efficient, eco-friendly ones. Before you purchase appliances at any old store, consider companies that offer pick up or drop off recycling for these products. For instance, Lowe’s has participated in the Call2Recycle program since 2004, and with the purchase of a new appliance, Lowe’s will
recycle your old appliance at no cost.
Also,
Sears is working with the EPA in an effort to recycle freezers and refrigerators. Through the
Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program, 23 companies, including Sears Home Services, have partnered with the EPA. Programs like this are an eco-conscious consumer’s dream!
With stainless steel refrigerators and front-load washers vying for the eyes of every consumer, white goods are becoming outdated and unwanted faster than ever. But you can do your part to use them as long as possible and eventually send them off for recycling.
