Fridges, washers, stoves, and dishwashers are some of the trickiest items to dispose of in NYC. Here is how to handle it quickly and legally with professional removal.
New York City has specific regulations for appliance disposal, and they vary by appliance type. Understanding these rules helps you avoid fines and choose the right removal method.
Appliances that contain CFC (chlorofluorocarbon) refrigerants — including refrigerators, freezers, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners — require special handling. Federal law (Clean Air Act) mandates that CFC refrigerants be properly recovered before disposal.
What this means for you:
Releasing CFC refrigerants into the atmosphere is a federal offense with fines up to $44,539 per day per violation. Always use a proper disposal method.
Appliances without refrigerants are simpler to dispose of. Washers, dryers, stoves, ovens, and dishwashers do not require special CFC handling, making professional removal straightforward and affordable.
If you are buying a new appliance, most retailers offer haul-away of your old one when they deliver the replacement:
This is the easiest option if you are replacing an appliance. The delivery crew handles disconnection, removal, and proper disposal. Just confirm the haul-away is included before you finalize your purchase.
Professional appliance removal through JunkRabbit is the fastest option when you are not buying a replacement. Our haulers handle everything: disconnection, carrying from any floor, CFC recovery, and licensed disposal.
| Appliance | Base Removal Price |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator / Freezer | $125 (includes CFC fee) |
| Washer | $110 |
| Dryer | $110 |
| Stove / Oven / Range | $105 |
| Dishwasher | $90 |
| Microwave | $45 |
| Window AC Unit | $65 |
Prices are base rates. Borough, floor, and elevator adjustments apply. Minimum order: $75.
Con Edison periodically offers rebates and incentive programs for recycling old, energy-inefficient appliances. These programs typically target:
Con Ed rebate programs change seasonally. Check coned.com/en/save-money or call their energy efficiency hotline for current offers. When available, these programs include free pickup of the old appliance.
Appliances contain valuable metals — steel, copper, aluminum — that scrap yards will pay for. While you will not get rich (expect $5–$25 per appliance depending on current metal prices), it is a free disposal option if you can transport the appliance yourself.
Several scrap yards in the outer boroughs accept household appliances. Some may even offer free pickup for multiple large appliances, since the scrap value covers their hauling cost.
Refrigerator removal is the most complex appliance disposal due to CFC requirements. Before removal day:
Washer and dryer removal requires disconnecting water supply lines (washer) and vent ducts (dryer). For gas dryers, the gas line must be properly capped — this should only be done by a professional. Electric dryers are simpler to disconnect.
Gas stoves require the gas line to be shut off and properly capped before removal. Electric stoves need to be unplugged from the 240V outlet. In both cases, professional haulers handle the disconnection as part of the removal service.
| Method | Cost | Wait Time | They Carry It Out? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retailer haul-away | $0–$30 | On delivery day | Yes |
| JunkRabbit | $45–$125 | Same day available | Yes, any floor |
| Con Ed rebate | Free + rebate | 1–3 weeks | Yes (when available) |
| Scrap yard | Free (they may pay you) | You transport | No |
The easiest way to price appliance removal in NYC is through JunkRabbit. Upload a photo of your appliance, get an instant instant quote that includes all fees (CFC, floor surcharge, etc.), and schedule a pickup time that works for you. No phone calls, no waiting for an in-person estimate.
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