How to Dispose of a Fridge or Freezer
By Waste Removal Solutions · 8 September 2026
Fridges and freezers cannot go in a normal skip or bin. Here is how to dispose of one legally and responsibly in the UK, and what it costs.
Getting rid of an old fridge or freezer is not as simple as putting it out with the rubbish. These appliances are classed as hazardous waste because of the gases they contain, and there are strict rules on how they must be handled.
Why fridges are treated differently
Fridges and freezers contain refrigerant gases, and older models contain ozone-depleting CFCs. Both the cooling circuit and the insulation foam have to be removed and processed by a licensed facility before the metal and plastic can be recycled. That is why you cannot put a fridge in a standard skip and why councils handle them separately.
Your options
Retailer take-back. If you are buying a new appliance, many retailers will take the old one away, sometimes free with delivery.
Council collection. Most councils offer a bulky-waste collection for a fee, though you often wait days or weeks for a slot and must move the appliance outside yourself.
Licensed removal service. The quickest option — we collect it from wherever it stands, indoors included, and dispose of it correctly. We charge a simple £45 per fridge or freezer, and you can add it to any load on our calculator.
Before collection
Empty and defrost the appliance, and give it a quick wipe-out. There is no need to detach doors or move it outside for us — we do the lifting.
Make sure it is disposed of legally
Whoever takes your fridge should be a registered waste carrier and dispose of it through a proper WEEE (electrical waste) route. Fly-tipped fridges are a common problem and the original owner can be held liable if waste is not passed to a licensed carrier. We are fully licensed and handle every appliance the right way. Add a fridge or freezer to your booking on our instant calculator.