How to Get Rid of Old Appliances in Boise (All Your Options)
Need to dispose of old appliances in Boise? Here are all your options—from free recycling programs to professional pickup. Includes refrigerator, washer, dryer, and more.
How to Get Rid of Old Appliances in Boise (All Your Options)
Got an old refrigerator, washer, or dryer that needs to go? Here are all your disposal options in the Boise area.
Option 1: Idaho Power Refrigerator Recycling Program
If you have a working refrigerator or freezer, Idaho Power's program is your best bet:
This program exists because old refrigerators are energy hogs. Idaho Power wants them off the grid.
Limitations: Only refrigerators and freezers. Doesn't cover washers, dryers, or other appliances.
Website: Idaho Power Refrigerator Recycling Program
Option 2: Retailer Take-Back
Buying a new appliance? Many retailers offer haul-away:
Home Depot: $25-50 for haul-away with delivery Lowe's: Similar pricing, included with installation services Best Buy: Free recycling with new appliance purchase
The catch: You need to be buying something new. And scheduling can be tricky—they're often booked weeks out.
Option 3: Donate It
If your appliance still works, donation centers will take it:
Habitat for Humanity ReStore (Boise): Working appliances in good condition. They'll sometimes pick up large items.
Idaho Youth Ranch: Some locations accept appliances.
Craigslist/Facebook Marketplace: List it for free. Someone doing a rental property or garage conversion might want it.
Note: Most donation centers won't accept appliances that don't work.
Option 4: Scrap Metal Recyclers
Old appliances contain valuable metal. Local scrap yards will take them—sometimes even pay you.
Western Metals Recycling (Boise): Accepts appliances Pacific Steel & Recycling: Multiple locations in Treasure Valley
What you'll get paid depends on metal prices. Usually $5-20 for a typical appliance. You'll need to transport it yourself.
Important: Refrigerators and AC units require refrigerant removal before recycling. Not all scrap yards handle this.
Option 5: Ada County Landfill
The landfill at Hidden Hollow accepts appliances, but there are fees and rules:
This is typically the last resort—recycling is better for the environment and often cheaper.
Option 6: Professional Appliance Removal
Here's where we come in. Professional junk removal handles:
Cost: $75-150 for a single appliance, less per item for multiple appliances.
Best for: Heavy appliances in difficult locations, time-sensitive situations, or when you have multiple items.
Special Considerations by Appliance Type
Refrigerators/Freezers: Contain refrigerant that must be properly handled. DIY disposal at most facilities requires proof of refrigerant removal.
Washers/Dryers: Easier to dispose of—mostly metal. Scrap yards like these.
Dishwashers: Usually can go with regular metal recycling.
Water Heaters: Scrap yards take them. Watch out for asbestos insulation on very old units.
Ovens/Ranges: Gas ranges need gas line disconnection. Electric ranges are straightforward.
The Bottom Line
Working fridge or freezer: Use Idaho Power's program (free + rebate) Buying new: Use retailer haul-away Working appliance you're just replacing: Donate it Non-working appliance, you have a truck: Scrap yard Don't want to deal with it: Call us
Need appliance removal in Boise? Call (208) 593-2877 or schedule online.
Need Help With Junk Removal?
Top Shelf serves Boise and the Treasure Valley with professional junk removal, cleanouts, and demolition services.
Call (208) 593-2877
