Imagine that old dehumidifier sitting in your basement. It’s been taking up space for years—maybe it’s no longer efficient, or perhaps you’ve upgraded to a newer model. But now comes the challenge: how do you get rid of it responsibly?
If you’re wondering how to dispose of a dehumidifier safely and legally, you’re not alone. These bulky devices contain refrigerants, metals, and electronics that can’t just be tossed in the trash.
Improper dehumidifier disposal isn’t just bad for the environment—it could be illegal in your state. Yet many people don’t know where to recycle a dehumidifier or how to get rid of one responsibly.
This guide will walk you through every step, from understanding what’s inside your unit to finding eco-friendly disposal and recycling options near you.
Key Takeaway: How to Dispose of a Dehumidifier Responsibly
To dispose of a dehumidifier safely, don’t throw it in the trash. Instead, recycle it at a certified electronics or appliance recycling center. If it still works, donate or resell it. Always handle refrigerants properly, and use tools like GreenCitizen’s Green Directory to find trusted disposal options near you.
Can You Recycle Dehumidifiers?
Yes, you can recycle dehumidifiers—but not through your curbside bin. These appliances contain recyclable materials like copper coils, aluminum, plastic casing, and refrigerant systems.
To recycle a dehumidifier safely, you’ll need to use an appliance recycler, e-waste drop-off site, or a facility that handles refrigerant-containing equipment.
Recycling a dehumidifier reduces landfill waste and allows valuable metals and plastics to be recovered and reused. While not every center accepts them, many electronics and HVAC recycling programs do.
Use a local recycling directory to find certified options near you.
Where to Recycle a Dehumidifier Near You
The best places to recycle a dehumidifier include electronics recycling centers, appliance store programs, and local hazardous waste facilities.
- Certified Electronics Recycling Centers – These facilities are equipped to handle refrigerants and electronics responsibly.
- Retailers like Best Buy, Lowe’s, and Sears – Many offer appliance recycling programs, sometimes with trade-in discounts.
- Municipal Waste Collection Sites – Some cities offer special drop-off events or HHW facilities for appliances like dehumidifiers.
- GreenCitizen’s Green Directory – Enter your zip code to find trusted dehumidifier disposal locations near you
✅ Tip: Always choose a certified recycling center to ensure the dehumidifier is processed safely and in compliance with environmental regulations.
How to Recycle a Dehumidifier the Right Way (Step-by-Step)
Recycling a dehumidifier isn’t as simple as curbside pickup—but it’s far from impossible.
Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you dispose of a dehumidifier safely, legally, and with confidence:
1. Unplug, Empty, and Clean the Unit
Start by unplugging the dehumidifier and letting it fully dry. Remove the water tank and clean off any dust or mold buildup. If the unit still works, consider donating it through appliance reuse programs or local nonprofits. Recycling should be your next step only if reuse isn’t feasible.
2. Check for Refrigerants and Hazardous Components
Most dehumidifiers contain refrigerants like R-410A or R-22, which are regulated as hazardous waste.
Check the label or user manual to confirm. Do not attempt to remove refrigerants yourself—it’s illegal and dangerous. A certified recycling center will handle this step.
3. Locate a Certified Appliance Recycler Near You
Search for an electronics or HVAC appliance recycling center that’s certified to handle refrigerant-based units. Not all e-waste centers accept dehumidifiers, so use trusted tools like the GreenCitizen Green Directory to find qualified facilities nearby. If local options are limited, check with retailers, municipal programs, or manufacturer take-back schemes.
4. Call Ahead and Clarify Drop-Off Requirements
Some centers charge a small fee for refrigerant recovery, while others may offer free drop-off days. Always confirm in advance to avoid surprises. Ask about accepted brands, operating hours, and whether an appointment is needed.
5. Drop It Off for Responsible Disposal
Transport the unit carefully to the facility. Certified recyclers will remove the refrigerant, dismantle the unit, and recover metals, plastics, and circuit boards for reuse. This process diverts toxic materials from landfills and ensures compliance with environmental laws.
TL;DR: How to Recycle a Dehumidifier
To dispose of a dehumidifier safely, first unplug and clean the unit. Check if it contains refrigerants and never attempt to remove them yourself. Use a certified electronics or appliance recycling center near you—many cities or retailers like Best Buy accept them. Always call ahead to confirm drop-off details and possible fees.
How to Get Rid of a Dehumidifier WITHOUT Recycling
If recycling isn’t available, there are still responsible ways to get rid of a dehumidifier.
Start by checking whether it still works. If it’s in usable condition, consider selling it through Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or a local garage sale.
Many people look for budget-friendly dehumidifiers for seasonal or backup use.
You can also donate a working unit to local charities, shelters, or community centers. Always call ahead—some organizations have specific policies for accepting appliances. Donating not only extends the appliance’s life but supports families in need.
Another overlooked option is offering it to friends or relatives. Someone in your circle might need a dehumidifier for a damp basement or garage. By repurposing or giving it away, you’re helping reduce waste and promoting sustainable dehumidifier disposal.
Do Dehumidifiers Have Freon?
Yes, many older dehumidifiers contain Freon, a refrigerant known to damage the ozone layer. Newer models typically use alternatives like R-410A, but if your dehumidifier was made before 2010, it may contain Freon (R-22).
Check the label or user manual to confirm.
If your unit has refrigerant, never attempt to dismantle it yourself—handling Freon requires EPA-certified technicians. Instead, take the dehumidifier to a certified appliance recycling center. These facilities safely recover and dispose of refrigerants in compliance with environmental regulations, preventing leaks and ozone depletion.
Should You Dismantle a Dehumidifier Yourself or Call a Professional?
No, you shouldn’t dismantle a dehumidifier yourself—especially if you’re not trained in handling refrigerants or electrical components. These appliances contain sharp metal parts, high-voltage wiring, and potentially hazardous refrigerants like Freon (R-22), which must be removed by EPA-certified professionals.
Improper dismantling can result in injury, fire risk, or environmental contamination. Certified recycling centers and HVAC technicians have the tools and training to safely recover refrigerants, disassemble the unit, and separate recyclable materials like copper, aluminum, and plastic according to federal and state regulations.
If you’re unsure whether your dehumidifier contains refrigerant or simply want to avoid safety risks, it’s best to leave dehumidifier dismantling to professionals.
Read More:
Is It Illegal to Throw Away a Dehumidifier? (U.S. Disposal Laws Explained)
Yes, there are strict laws in the United States governing how to dispose of a dehumidifier—especially those that contain refrigerants like Freon. Under the Clean Air Act (Section 608), it is illegal to release ozone-depleting refrigerants during appliance disposal. These substances must be recovered by certified professionals before the unit is dismantled or recycled.
The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) also classifies used refrigerants and oils in dehumidifiers as hazardous waste, meaning they must be handled at licensed facilities to prevent soil and water contamination.
In addition to federal law, many states enforce their own electronic waste (e-waste) regulations. Some states prohibit disposing of dehumidifiers in regular trash bins entirely and require drop-off at certified recycling programs.
Violating these regulations can result in fines and penalties. To stay compliant, always check with your state’s environmental protection agency or local waste management service before disposing of a dehumidifier.
Dispose of Your Dehumidifier Responsibly—Here’s How You Make a Difference
Dehumidifiers may seem small, but disposing of them improperly can have big consequences—especially with refrigerants and hazardous materials involved.
Whether it still works or not, you have eco-friendly options: recycle it at a certified center, donate it to someone in need, or sell it to give it a second life. And if you’re unsure where to begin, GreenCitizen’s Green Directory makes it easy to find trusted dehumidifier recycling locations near you.
Make the responsible choice—protect the environment, stay compliant with disposal laws, and keep e-waste out of landfills.
