Updated June 12, 2026 • ScrapMetalBuyers.com • All Guides
Is It Worth Scrapping an AC Unit or Old Appliance? (2026 Value Guide)
Old AC units, refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers are a goldmine of scrap metal if you know what's inside them. Here's a complete breakdown of what each appliance contains and what you can expect to get paid.
What's Inside a Central AC Unit?
A central air conditioning system (condenser unit) typically contains copper refrigerant lines (5–15 lbs of Copper #1 or #2), an aluminum/copper coil (the condenser coil with aluminum fins and copper tubing, paying $1.50–$2.20/lb as a unit), an electric motor/compressor (20–40 lbs paying $0.15–$0.30/lb whole), an aluminum fan blade and housing (5–15 lbs at $0.50–$0.80/lb), a steel cabinet (20–50 lbs at $0.05–$0.10/lb), and copper wiring (1–3 lbs of insulated wire). Total scrap value of a typical 3-ton central AC unit: $35–$80 depending on how much you dismantle it.
What's Inside a Refrigerator?
A standard refrigerator contains a compressor motor (15–25 lbs at $0.15–$0.30/lb whole), a copper refrigerant line (1–3 lbs of copper tubing), an aluminum condenser coil (3–8 lbs), and a steel cabinet (80–120 lbs at $0.05–$0.10/lb). Total value: $15–$35. Note: Refrigerants must be legally recovered before scrapping — many yards require a certification sticker.
What's Inside a Washing Machine or Dryer?
Washers and dryers contain an electric motor (10–20 lbs at $0.15–$0.25/lb), a steel drum and cabinet (60–100 lbs of steel), copper wiring (1–2 lbs), and sometimes a stainless steel drum (10–20 lbs at $0.30–$0.50/lb). Total value: $8–$20 for a typical washer or dryer.
Should You Dismantle or Sell As-Is?
For a single appliance, selling as-is saves time. For multiple units or if you have the tools, dismantling pays significantly more. The key separations that add value are removing the compressor motor and selling separately, cutting out the copper refrigerant lines, and separating the ACR coil from the steel cabinet. For large quantities of appliances (10+ units), contact ScrapMetalBuyers.com at 954-488-0700 — we offer free pickup and above-market pricing for bulk appliance lots.
💰 What ScrapMetalBuyers.com Pays for Appliance Scrap
As of June 12, 2026 — Call 954-488-0700 to confirm current rates before delivery.| Component / Item | Market Range | SMB Drop-Off Rate |
|---|---|---|
| ACR Coil (AC condenser coil) | $1.50 – $2.20/lb | Up to $2.30/lb |
| Copper Refrigerant Lines | $3.20 – $3.90/lb | Up to $4.00/lb |
| Electric Motor / Compressor (whole) | $0.15 – $0.30/lb | Up to $0.35/lb |
| Clean Aluminum (fan, housing) | $0.50 – $0.80/lb | Up to $0.90/lb |
| Stainless Steel Drum | $0.35 – $0.55/lb | Up to $0.65/lb |
| Whole Central AC Unit (as-is) | $35 – $60 each | Call for bulk rate |
ⓘ Drop-off rates apply when you deliver to a confirmed ScrapMetalBuyers.com U.S. location. Call 954-488-0700 to find your nearest drop-off point and lock in your price before you haul.
📍 Drop Off & Get Paid More
Did you know that sellers who deliver directly to one of our U.S. drop-off locations receive a premium above our standard pickup rate? We pass the logistics savings straight to you.
Drop-off locations are available across the United States. Contact us first so we can confirm the nearest location, verify your material, and lock in your price before you make the trip.
📞 Call 954-488-0700 to Find Your Drop-Off Location Get a Drop-Off Quote OnlineFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need to remove the refrigerant before scrapping an AC unit?
Yes. EPA regulations require refrigerant to be recovered by a certified technician before scrapping. Many HVAC contractors will do this for free if you're replacing the unit.
What's the most valuable part of an AC unit to scrap?
The ACR (aluminum/copper radiator) coil and the copper refrigerant lines are the most valuable components by weight. The compressor motor is also worth separating.
Can I scrap a refrigerator with food still in it?
Clean it out first. Yards won't accept appliances with food or liquids inside.
Is it legal to scrap AC units?
Yes, but some states require ID and documentation. Stolen AC units are a common problem, so yards are cautious. Keep any receipts or documentation of ownership.
Will ScrapMetalBuyers.com pick up a single AC unit?
For single units, deliver to a drop-off location for the best rate. For 5 or more units, we offer free pickup. Call 954-488-0700 to arrange.
What about window AC units — are they worth scrapping?
Yes. A window unit typically yields $8–$25 in scrap value. The ACR coil and small motor are the most valuable components. Selling as-is is usually fine for single units.
Ready to Sell? Get a Same-Day Quote
Call us now or fill out our form. We respond within 2 hours, pay same-day, and handle all logistics at no cost to you.
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