How to dispose of a dehumidifier: eco-friendly and convenient tips

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1-800-GOT-JUNK? truck team member holding dehumidifier beside truck

Disposing of a dehumidifier can be more complex than dealing with regular household waste. These appliances often contain components that can harm the environment, such as refrigerants and electronic parts. It’s important to ensure that how you dispose of a dehumidifier is both safe and convenient. In this guide, we’ll show you eco-friendly methods for dehumidifier disposal that are easy to follow.

Why proper dehumidifier disposal is important

Dehumidifiers can contain harmful chemicals like refrigerants, which pose a risk to the environment. If these chemicals are released due to improper disposal, they can damage the atmosphere, especially older units that may have Freon. Many electronic components and metals can also be recycled, so throwing them in the trash isn’t just harmful—it’s a missed opportunity to conserve resources. Learning how to dispose of a dehumidifier the right way helps you comply with legal regulations while protecting the planet.

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Old dehumidifier on floor in bright living room

Safe ways to dispose of dehumidifier waste

Here are the best options for getting rid of your old dehumidifier in an environmentally friendly and legal manner.

Where to recycle a dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers are considered e-waste due to their electronic components and refrigerants, which means they require special disposal. Many local recycling centers will accept them, ensuring that valuable materials like metal and plastic are recovered, and harmful chemicals are safely processed. Look for centers that specifically handle e-waste when figuring out where to recycle a dehumidifier near you.

Retailer take-back programs

When purchasing a new dehumidifier, check if the retailer offers a take-back or recycling program. This is a convenient way to dispose of your old dehumidifier. Some programs even offer trade-in options, making it easy to ensure your old appliance is recycled responsibly.

Junk removal services

A hassle-free way to dispose of a dehumidifier is to use a full-service junk removal company like 1-800-GOT-JUNK?. We’ll do all the heavy lifting, and recycle everything that can be recycled. Whether it’s part of a bigger cleanout or just your dehumidifier, we make junk disappear and handle the disposal responsibly. Want a simple solution? Book a junk removal service, and we’ll do the rest.

Preparing an old dehumidifier for disposal

Before you dispose of your dehumidifier, it’s important to prepare it properly. Here’s how:

Empty and clean the water tank

Be sure to empty and clean the water tank before disposing of the dehumidifier. This prevents any water damage or mold growth during the disposal process.

Remove any hazardous materials

Some dehumidifiers contain hazardous materials like refrigerants, which should be removed by professionals. Check the user manual or contact the manufacturer to ensure these materials are handled properly.

What to do with a broken dehumidifier

If your dehumidifier is broken but repairable, consider having it fixed. If it’s beyond repair, the best options are to recycle it or use a junk removal service. This ensures that its parts are recycled rather than sent to a landfill.

We take all kinds of junk

Disposing of appliances like dehumidifiers incorrectly can result in fines or penalties. At 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, we take care of all kinds of junk, including appliances with refrigerants - we even offer same-day service. Whether you're getting rid of one appliance or clearing out multiple items, we ensure proper recycling and disposal every time - all you have to do is point!

Check out pricing for junk removal, and find a location near you. We offer junk removal services across the United States, Canada, and Australia.   

Contact 1-800-GOT-JUNK? by calling our 24-hour customer service line at 1-800-468-5865, or schedule a junk pickup online at your convenience. 

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FAQs

No, dehumidifiers should not be thrown in the trash. They contain hazardous materials that require proper disposal through recycling or junk removal services.

Many older dehumidifiers do have Freon. It’s important to handle the disposal of these units carefully to avoid environmental damage.

Yes, plastic dehumidifiers can be recycled along with their metal and electronic components.

You can empty the water tank into a drain, sink, or outdoors.

Yes, it’s generally safe to pour dehumidifier water down the drain, but always check local guidelines.

We make junk disappear.

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