BLOG: Recycle Your Old Fridge & Get Cash
By Jim Donovan: Do you have an old energy-guzzling refrigerator, freezer, or in some cases even a window air conditioner that you're looking to replace or maybe unload? Well you may want to check out the various programs that electric companies in our region are offering as an incentive to recycle.
PPL, PECO, PSE&G, and JCP&L are among the companies that will haul away certain older working appliances for you and they'll even give you an incentive check too, anywhere from $15 - $50.
I'm in the middle of a kitchen renovation right now and instead of just having a contractor take away the old fridge I called PPL as part of their appliance recycling program. This past Saturday I scheduled a pick-up, the fridge was removed and in a few days I'll get a check for $35, can't beat that!
While the programs vary from company to company, in most cases your refrigerator or freezer must be in working condition and be between 10 and 30 cubic feet in size. You must own the unit and be a customer of the utility you contact for removal. There is also normally a limit in the number of appliances that can be removed per calendar year per home.
You have to be sure that the appliance can fit through open doors as the company that hauls it away can't modify your home (e.g., remove door or railings). Also, be aware that the trucks they use are often between 10 and 14 feet high. If you have any low power lines on your block in on your property you should mention that when scheduling a pickup. I had to reschedule my first appointment after there was a concern that the first truck would hit some low lines on my road.
To see what your utility company offers in the line of rebates and discounts, click on the links below:
PPL link:
PECO link:
NJ (various companies) link:
