Fridges and freezers are the one household appliance that cannot simply be scrapped. The cooling circuit holds refrigerant gas, and the foam in the walls was blown with gases that, in units made before the mid-1990s, include CFCs that damage the ozone layer. Newer models use isobutane, which is flammable. Either way, the unit is classed as hazardous waste and has to be treated in a sealed plant that recovers the gas and foam before anything is shredded.
We collect under-counter fridges, tall fridge freezers, American-style units with water dispensers, chest freezers and drinks fridges. Two people handle anything tall or heavy, the unit is kept upright and the doors taped shut, and it goes to a facility set up to deal with refrigeration equipment. You get a waste transfer note naming where it went, which is your proof that it was disposed of legally.
What is included
- Collection from the kitchen, utility room, garage or outbuilding, not just the kerb
- Two-person lift for tall, American-style and chest units
- Unit kept upright and doors secured to protect the cooling circuit in transit
- Disconnection of the water supply on plumbed-in American fridge freezers where an isolating valve is fitted
- Delivery to an approved treatment facility for refrigerant and foam recovery
- Floor and doorframe protection on the way out
- Waste transfer note for your records
Who it is for
- Anyone whose new fridge is being delivered without a retailer take-back
- Garage or chest freezers that have stopped working
- Landlords replacing a failed fridge freezer in a rental property
- Kitchen refits where the old integrated fridge is being pulled out
- Executors clearing a property after a bereavement
- Pubs, cafés and offices getting rid of drinks or under-counter fridges
How much does it cost?
As a guide, a private collection of an under-counter fridge or freezer usually costs £40 to £70, and a tall or American-style fridge freezer £50 to £90, depending on access and location. See our full cost guide.
