Appliance Recycling in Sydney: What to Do with Your Old Fridge or Washing Machine
When you buy a new appliance, the question of what to do with the old one is often overlooked until the delivery arrives. Here are your options for responsibly disposing of old appliances in Sydney.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Old fridges and air conditioners contain refrigerant gases (like R22 or R134a) that must be recovered by a licensed technician — releasing them into the atmosphere is both illegal and harmful to the ozone layer. Old fridges and freezers also contain foam insulation that may contain ozone-depleting substances.
Large appliances in landfill also waste recoverable metals (steel, copper, aluminium) and components.
Option 1: Ask Your Appliance Retailer to Remove It
At Oceania Appliances, we can arrange removal of your old appliance when we deliver your new one. This is the most convenient option — your old appliance is taken away and disposed of responsibly by us.
Call us when booking your delivery to arrange removal. Some conditions may apply depending on the type and condition of the old appliance.
Option 2: Refrigerant Recovery Program (Fridges and ACs)
The Refrigerant Reclaim Australia program operates across the country. Licensed technicians can recover refrigerant from old fridges, freezers, and air conditioners before the appliance is scrapped. Many appliance retailers and recyclers participate in this program.
Option 3: Local Council Bulk Waste Collection
Most Sydney councils offer annual or periodic bulk household waste collection where large appliances can be placed on the kerb for collection. Check your council's website for schedule and eligible items.
Examples: Blacktown Council, Fairfield Council, Canterbury-Bankstown Council, and others all offer bulk waste services. Items are typically collected by licensed recyclers who recover valuable materials.
Option 4: Metal Recyclers
Large appliances have significant scrap metal value (steel, copper, aluminium). Many Sydney metal recyclers will collect large appliances for free or for a small fee. Search for scrap metal recyclers near you.
Option 5: Donate Working Appliances
If your old appliance is still working, consider donating it rather than discarding it. Community organisations, op-shops, and refugee assistance services often accept working appliances. This extends the appliance's life and helps people in need.
What NOT to Do
- Don't put a fridge or freezer on the kerb with a note — without refrigerant being properly recovered, this may be illegal in your state
- Don't cut refrigerant lines yourself
- Don't pay someone who can't demonstrate proper disposal credentials
We Handle Removal
The easiest solution? Let us handle it. When you buy from Oceania Appliances, ask us about removing your old appliance. We'll arrange proper, responsible disposal.
Oceania Appliances
2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park NSW 2164
Phone: 0481 243 211
Open 7 days, 10am – 8pm
Free delivery across Sydney