According to a UN study, the United States had roughly 30 tons of electronic waste per capita in 2012 — the highest in the world. While that in itself is a huge issue, the even larger problem lies in how this waste is disposed of. Labels on electronics and appliances feature instructions for proper disposal, but rarely are they given any attention. Electronics are semi-toxic materials and should be regarded as such. Instead of tossing your old electronics and appliances on the curb alongside your regular trash, dispose of them properly at designated locations. What designates “proper,” is based on the type of electronic or appliance you are trying to break free from.
Microwaves
If you have a plastic microwave, not to worry. These can be disposed of as regular trash. If you have a metal microwave, however, you should take special precautions to make sure it goes to the right place. While some facilities allow you to recycle metal microwaves as scrap metal, others require dropping them off (or scheduling for pick-up) at an electronic waste center. Check your city regulations for more information.
Freezers and Refrigerators
Because of their bulky nature, you should not try to dispose of these yourself. Call an e-waste removal service and schedule a pick-up of your old appliance. As noted by the Environmental Protection Agency, pickups are typically free, though some services may charge a small fee of $10-$50, depending on the company and your location.
Washers and Dryers
If they are still in working condition, donating them to a shelter (or putting them on freecycle) may be a better option than simply recycling them. If they are no longer usable, be sure to ask the manufacturer of your new washer/dryer if they also handle the disposal of old ones. In the event that the manufacturer is not certified to dispose of your old appliance, find the location of the closest e-waste disposal site and schedule a drop-off or pick-up.
Here are a few places in Las Vegas that will gladly take your old electronics and dispose of them correctly:
Their motto is “Let’s make Sin City a clean city” and they specialize in residential, corporate and business e-waste disposal. While you can schedule a waste pick up, there is also a designated drop-off spot available at 1816 Industrial Rd, Unit 4, Las Vegas, NV 89102. Feel free to stop by and leave your e-waste at any time Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. This location will NOT accept household batteries, oils and liquids, or hazardous medical waste.
Earth911 functions as more of an appliance recycle database than a disposal location. Here’s how it works: you enter the material that you would like to have recycled, along with your zip code, and they will pull up a list of locations close to you that will accept the specified appliance or material. This website not only provides locations for recycling, but also explains the value and importance of reusing materials.
Among the many waste disposal services they provide, Republic Services also does bulk waste removal, including large appliances. They will pick up from business or residential locations and have an option for dumpster/container rental for easy collection and haul away. They do, however, encourage the donation of items that are still in working condition.
These are just a few of the many e-waste collection organizations in the Las Vegas valley. With options aplenty, there is no reason why your electronics and appliances should ever be disposed of improperly. Remember: if your appliance is still in working condition, repairing is a better option than having to pay for a brand new appliance. For the best appliance repairs in Las Vegas, give us a call today at (702) 515-1515.
