What to Do with Old TVs?

Old TV in an old house on an old hill

The majority of people don’t know what to do with old TVs. Throwing them in the trash is not an option since they contain hazardous materials.

If you want to donate your old TV to a local charity or non-profit organization, you have a number of options. Many of these groups accept old TVs and either refurbish them or sell them for fundraising purposes. In addition to giving back to your community, this is a great way to dispose of your old electronics in an environmentally friendly manner.

A second option is to recycle your old TV. Many electronics stores and recycling centers offer free or low-cost recycling services for old electronics. As a result, hazardous materials are disposed of properly, and valuable resources are reused in new products. By doing so, you can protect the environment for future generations and reduce the amount of electronic waste that ends up in landfills.

Why You Should Not Dump Old TVs

As someone who cares about the environment, I strongly advise against dumping old TVs. Here are a few reasons why:

Landfills

When you dump your old TV in a landfill, it takes up valuable space that could be used for other waste. Landfills are already overflowing with garbage, and adding more electronic waste only exacerbates the problem.

Heavy Metals

Old TVs contain heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. These metals are toxic to the environment and can cause serious health problems if they leach into the soil or water.

Pollution Risk

Electronic waste can release toxic chemicals into the air and water when it breaks down. This pollution can harm wildlife and plants, as well as make its way into our food supply.

Hazardous Chemicals

In addition to heavy metals, old TVs also contain hazardous chemicals such as brominated flame retardants and PVC. These chemicals are simply bad.

Recycling

If you have an old TV, consider recycling it. Many electronics stores and recycling centers offer free or low-cost recycling programs for electronic waste.

Simple Tips for Old TV Disposal

When disposing of old TVs, there are some simple tips to use. Here are some things to remember:

  • Check for valuable materials

  • Dispose of remotes separately

  • Don’t mix with other electronic devices

  • Consider donating or selling

Overall, there are many factors to consider when disposing of an old TV. The popular choice these days is to recycle it so that professionals can take care of everything the correct way.

Where To Recycle Old TVs

Here are some options you have if you decide to recycle that used TV:

  • Local Recycling Centers: Many local recycling centers accept old TVs for recycling. Check with your local government or waste management agency where you can drop off your TV.

  • EPA: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides information on e-waste recycling and where to find local recycling events.

  • Best Buy: Best Buy offers a TV recycling program where you can drop off your old TV at any Best Buy store. They will recycle it for a fee.

  • E-Waste Recycling Companies: There are many e-waste recycling companies that specialize in recycling old electronics. Some of these companies offer pick-up services for a fee.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about how the recycling process is handled and where the materials go when recycling your old TV. Check the reviews to find a reputable recycling facility.

Donating Old TVs

If you have an old TV that you no longer need, you may want to consider donating it. Donating old TVs to a charitable organization that accepts electronic donations (always check with your local Goodwill or the Salvation Army first) is an excellent way to give back to your community and help those in need.

Where To Sell Old TVs

Selling old TVs (along with that collection of old VHS tapes) has several options. Here are some of the most popular ways to sell that used TV:

  • Garage Sales
  • Craigslist
  • Retro
  • Facebook Marketplace

Conclusion

There are several options for disposing of used TVs from donating them to selling them. Ultimately, the best course of action depends on the TV’s condition, personal preferences, and local regulations. Regardless of how you choose to dispose of your TV, it is important to do it responsibly.

Scroll to Top