Obsolete Electrical Furnishings
Homeowners can safely dispose of old appliances through community programs. (Photo Credits)
Technology is fast-paced; hence, appliances get obsolete even faster than their owners expect them to be. Homeowners from time to time would need to upgrade their appliances to ensure that they have the best experience, and recently, the most energy efficient device that is both friendly to the pocket and the environment.
But what should homeowners do with obsolete appliances, can they still recycle them? Resell and profit a bit? Or should outdated appliances just be bound for the junkyard?
The United States Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has set guidelines on the disposal of old and non-working appliances and electronics meant to safeguard the environment from the negative impact improper disposal can cause.
In its official website, the EPA specified some steps homeowners can take in discarding refrigerated appliances like air conditioning units and refrigerators. American Lighting Association
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“First, you should check with your electric utility to see if a bounty program is offered in your area. Because some bounty programs have required specifications for appliances, you may also need to confirm that your appliance is acceptable. Some retailers offer appliance pick-up and disposal services with the purchase and delivery of a new model. Others may allow you to drop off the old appliance at the retail establishment.”
The EPA has posted the rest of the guidelines here.
Reselling Appliances and Electronics
Direct Energy Blog meanwhile came up with its list of ways to recycle obsolete, non-working, or old appliances. In their article, they suggested exploring the possibility of trading in on the appliance or trying to profit from it by reselling it. Master Electrician
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“Devices that still have some life left in them are worth something to someone. Even broken electronics may have decent value in spare parts. If you’re willing to put in a little more work, your best chance at a nice payday is to find an interested buyer. You can use free websites like craigslist or apps like Letgo to reach out to prospective buyers in your area, or for nominal fees, you can advertise your sale to a wider audience with an online auction site like eBay.”
Read the rest of their suggestions here.
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As for electronic waste or E-Waste, personal finance website Money Crashers has come up with a comprehensive article detailing how to responsibly dispose of electronic devices and gadgets that have become obsolete. In their write-up, they mentioned the health and personal safety risk irresponsible disposal of E-Waste could pose. For one the chemicals and the harmful elements used in manufacturing mobile and desk-based electronics can be detrimental to human health and the environment, and at the same time can pave the way for cybercrimes and identity theft.
“Find an e-waste recycler certified through the Basel Action Network (BAN). BAN is a non-profit organization devoted to certifying e-Stewards, recyclers who are committed to safely and responsibly recycling electronics. Members take and demonstrate the Pledge of Responsible Recycling, so working with a certified e-Steward means you don’t have to worry that your gadget will become another nation’s pollution or a criminal’s newest project. BAN’s recycler locator will help you find the certified safety and comfort of e-Stewards in your area.”
The other suggestions can be found here.
Responsible disposing of obsolete appliances and mobile devices can help in preserving human health and wellness, as well as the environment.
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Gforce Electrical Repair San Diego