What should you do with a defunct microwave? Can you recycle it?

One of our readers asks:

“I have a nonfunctioning microwave. Can I put that out in the trash?”

–  Microwaving Millenial

Well, Microwaving Millenial, you could put your microwave in the trash, but that’s not an environmentally friendly solution. Any electronics or appliances that are put with trash are sent to landfills, that sit there for years, useless. Plus, they have electrical components that can be dangerous to handle and probably aren’t great for the landfill.

But we have good news for you. You can find recycling solutions right in Philly and surrounding suburbs.

Where to Recycle Old Microwaves

You can take your microwaves to the Philadelphia Sanitation Convenience Centers.

• Port Richmond (3901 Delaware Ave.) 215-685-1358
• West Philadelphia (5100 Grays Ave) 215-685-2600
• Strawberry Mansion (2601 W. Glenwood Ave) 215-685-3955
• Southwest Philadelphia (3033 S. 63rd St., near Passyunk Ave.) 215-685-4290
• Northwest Philadelphia (300 block Domino Lane, near Umbria St.) 215-685-2502
• Northeast Philadelphia (State Rd. & Ashburner St.) 215-685-8072

The Philadelphia Streets Department has a contract with eForce Compliance so your leftover microwaves and appliances are recycled responsibly.

You can also take them to eForce Recycling directly – just bring along a $10 fee for handling. Eforce recycling is open Open Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m for residential drop-offs at 3114 Grays Ferry Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19146.

Eforce Recycling also hosts events in Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs. Check their events calendar for upcoming dropoffs near you.

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Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake. View all posts by Julie Hancher