how to dispose of a microwave uk

Convenient kitchen appliances are a great addition to any household. Microwaves are no exception. But like all electrical and electronic equipment, the functionality of a microwave tends to wear off over time, especially with daily usage. The more this workhorse is used, the more it’s likely to be replaced.

We shall be looking at how to dispose of a microwave in the UK and do it safely. So read on!

Is Throwing Away a Microwave Safe?

Begin by researching your community’s rules and regulations on electronic waste disposal. This is essential and should be on top of your list since some locations fine anyone who throws away electric waste in the dumpster.

Any electronic equipment requires a careful disposal procedure to reduce environmental risks and other hazards.

It’s crucial to look up your city’s approach to appliance disposal. Moreover, you can consider checking your government’s website and see detailed insights about your electrical waste recycling centre and how to safely get rid of unwanted appliances.

On the other hand, always be cautious if you want to disassemble your old microwave and dispose of different components separately.

Where Can I Dispose of a Microwave?

Always look for an electronic recycling service centre near you. You can always look for microwave recycling companies near you that collect these appliances, depending on their condition.

Furthermore, you can consider checking your microwave manufacturer’s website to see if there are any recycling waste programs.

It’s noteworthy to mention that researching is important to ensure that you’re playing your part in combatting the electronic waste problem and climate change.

What to Do With an Old Microwave?

Disposing of an old appliance is one tough job. But the good news is that there are several ways you can dispose of unwanted electronics safely. Here are some of the viable options.

Give It Away

Do you have a microwave in good condition, but you’re eyeing a more efficient or powerful one? If you have settled on buying a new one, consider consulting your friends and family to see if they can take it for free. If the device works well, it will be easy to give it away instead of throwing it.

However, before you give out your microwave, it’s always advisable to clean it and ensure that it’s safe to use. Remember, donating a working microwave is legal. Furthermore, it’s an ideal way of giving something back to your society.

On the other hand, if no one is willing to pick it up, you can consider donating it to non-profit organisations, churches, or schools.

Recycle It

Recycling is one of the best safe disposal methods you can use to get rid of a microwave that isn’t working properly. Surprisingly, you can still use all the raw materials salvaged from microwaves to make a host of future products.

If you are looking for the best recycling option, always check online for any government post that lists local recycling centres for electronic waste. If you can’t find any recycling centres in your location, you can look for a private third-party waste collector.

Don’t forget to go through the manufacturer’s leaflet before getting someone to come and pick up your electronic waste. Furthermore, keep in mind that some stores or companies have a recycling scheme to support the environment.

These centres may be located at electronic stores or supermarkets from which you purchased your old microwave.

Get It Fixed

a old kitchen device that needs to be repaired

Fixing broken microwave ovens is another viable option, instead of shopping for a new one or getting it collected by the council once it breaks down for the first time.

When your microwave oven stops functioning, you can start by checking if it has a manufacturer’s warranty. If it does, make an effort and liaise with the company and see if they can come and fix it.

On the contrary, if your microwave oven doesn’t have a warranty, look for online specialists who can repair household appliances in your location. Please note that it’s important to get the most out of any electric appliance before throwing it in the dump.

Sell It

If your microwave is in good working condition, but you’re looking forward to replacing it, you could consider reselling it since microwave disposal can be quite a daunting task. Also, remember that most people don’t spend a fortune on pre-owned microwaves. So, it’s best to have a fair price tag on used appliances.

You can consider selling your microwave parts separately to persons looking to repair their old microwaves.

You can consider selling your microwave on an online platform instead of disposing of it in a recycling bin or leaving them outside with a free sign attached to it.

How Are Microwaves Recycled?

A microwave is categorised as a small household appliance. Here’s a step-by-step process of electronic recycling in a recycling centre.

  1. Old microwaves are taken to the hammermill, where smashing takes place. During this process, they are broken down into bits.
  2. The broken pieces are then put on a conveyor belt, and sorting starts. They are sorted into two groups ferrous and non-ferrous material. Ferrous materials have magnetic waves, and they are easily sorted.
  3. Vacuum suction is then used to remove any light debris and dirt from the fragments.
  4. Components containing ferrous and non-ferrous materials are sent to the manual picking point during the recycling journey.
  5. Lastly, batteries are removed, and all the different materials collected are sent to specialists. Metals will be sent to smelters, and plastic will be sent to a specialist company for better refinement.

It’s an efficient and effective process that will help you get rid of your old appliances and help the environment.

It’s Time to Dispose of Microwaves Safely

From warming to cooking food, microwaves are handy appliances. But disposing of them once they are old and broken can be quite a daunting task. However, we hope this article will help you dispose of your broken microwave safely and correctly.

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