How Do You Dispose Of A Water Heater? - ERNIEGRAVES

What To Do With An Old Water Heater? (12 Recycling Tips)

The indicators of age in your water heater may have begun to appear after 12 years of continuous use.
Water heaters that are well-maintained can endure for more than 15 years on average.
If, on the other hand, you are spending more money on water heater repairs, it may be time to replace it with a newer and more efficient type.
However, depending on its state, the following are some of the most effective things to do with an old water heater: If the heater is still operational, consider donating it to a nonprofit organization and claiming a charitable tax deduction.

If all it need is a small touch up, give it out to someone who is in need of it.

Remove valuable metals such as copper and sell them

Scrap it as a whole

It may be recycled into something you can use around the house, for example, a smoker or a solar-powered hot water heater.

Or simply dump it if it’s past salvaging.

In this article, we discuss how to make the most of your old water heater if you are planning to replace your current water heater and are searching for methods to get rid of your old one.

How Do You Get Rid Of An Old Water Heater?

Water heaters are large and bulky appliances.
Some of them may weigh as much as 150 pounds.
As a result, getting rid of an outdated water heater can be a difficult endeavor.
Water heater removal services are provided by certain professional removal organizations for a little price.
Some of those removal businesses also provide post-removal clean-up as an additional service.
However, just because a water heater is old does not imply it has no value.

It’s possible that it’s still in good functioning order.Alternatively, it may be recoverable for a few components.

1. Donate it to a Church or Charity

If your old water heater is still in good working order, consider giving it to a church or other charity organization in your community.
These nonprofit organizations occasionally accept functional units in order to increase the organization’s capacity to provide amenities such as hot water to the public.
If you’re looking to make a donation, places like Goodwill, The Salvation Army, and Habitat For Humanity are excellent places to start.
They may have restrictions, such as requiring you to pay for transportation to deliver the water heater to them.
However, given the fact that you are already providing them with free functioning equipment, this is open for debate.
Check with your local churches or schools to see if they would be interested in utilizing the facility.

Used water heaters are in high demand since many churches have senior members who may benefit from them.The nicest part about making a contribution is that you can write it off as a tax deduction when you pay your taxes.

2. Junk It At A Landfill

After a lengthy period of service, say 12-20 years, it’s likely that you’ve received the most value out of your water heater’s original purchase price.
It is very reasonable to throw it out at this stage.
Water heaters, on the other hand, are not accepted by all landfills.
Water heaters are essentially voids of any usefulness.
It is possible for the space to get contaminated with harmful gases.
These gases have the potential to cause damage to the landfill or danger to those who work there.

As a result, you must obtain accurate information in order to determine whether or not old water tanks are accepted as rubbish at your local dump.If a landfill is out of the question in your area, you should look into municipal clean-up days to dispose of your waste.Clean-up days provide you the opportunity to put out anything you wish to get rid of.

Your old water heater will be removed at no charge by the civic body that is in charge of garbage collection.Check your city’s policy to see whether this is a possibility, just like you would with landfills.If neither of the previous two options are available, there is a third choice.

Bulk garbage collection is a service provided by certain municipalities in which homeowners may place anything they want on the curb, and the waste management authority will come and take it away.
As a result of the weight and size of water heaters, you may wish to contact the city and inquire as to whether or not there are any special costs for disposing of an old hot water heater.
if you’re replacing an old water heater with a new one, you should contact the company that installed the new water heater to find out what they do with the old ones.
The majority of water heater installation businesses will remove and dispose of the old water heaters.
There may be an additional service charge, but most will do it for free as a courtesy to their clients and customers.

3. Call Home Depot Or Lowes

In the event that you intend on purchasing a new water heater from a large retailer such as Lowe’s or Home Depot, you may arrange for them to remove your old water heater at no charge.
They will collect your water heater and dispose of it in a manner that is environmentally friendly.
Because they are a well-known brand, they will almost certainly have an easier time disposing of it for recycling.
This is usually only the case if they are installing a new water heater at the same time.

4. Sell Your Old Water Heater Online

If your old water heater still works, there’s a good possibility that someone will be interested in purchasing it.
For some people, the initial expenditure in a water heater is prohibitively expensive.
They would appreciate having hot water and would only be willing to pay a smaller sum for the convenience of having it.
Post an advertisement on popular websites with high traffic, such as Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist.
Second-hand items can be found in Facebook groups.
People seeking for a good deal go to Craigslist and e-commerce sites such as eBay, which receive a tremendous amount of traffic.

5. Buyback Programs do Exist if You Look

In some cases, if you are installing a new water heater, you may be able to get your old one back.
The prerequisites for each of these programs are varied.
Provided your old water heater is less than eight years old, some programs will only pay you the stipulated amount if it is still in good working order.
The value is determined by the evaluation they do.
The installation of a new water heater is not required for this type of setup to take effect.
Instead, they choose water heaters that are easily repaired.

Some organizations that acquire old water heaters when you purchase a new water heater from them will even remove the cost of the old water heater from your current purchase and installation price.

6. Scrap it at a Local Metal Salvage Yard

Old water heaters may be scrapped, which is a common alternative for those who wish to get rid of their water heaters.
You have two options: either trash the entire tank or disassemble it and strip it of all of its precious metals.
Water heaters are often made of materials that are not iron-based.
Copper and brass are commonly used by water heater manufacturers in their products.
Remove the metals from the mixture and sell them separately.
Make certain that you have examined for any expensive metals, particularly metals such as brass, which are more sensitive to corrosion than other metals.

Flathead screwdrivers are essential for removing rust from the brass beneath the surface of the surface.Gas vehicles are more valuable at scrap yards than diesel models.If the gas regulator is in good working order, it is a valuable asset to a scrap yard.

More on it in a moment.First, let’s take a look at some repurposing tasks you may do around the house.

Can I Repurpose My Old Water Heater?

A water heater may be recycled, which is an excellent method to decrease trash while also earning yourself a useful DIY project that you can use around the house.
Once the critical components, such as the brass fittings, copper wires, and aluminum anodes, have been removed, it is still possible to produce functional goods.
The following are some excellent DIY projects that may be made from an old water heater:

1. Turn An Old Water Heater Into A Horizontal Or Vertical Smoker

Due to the fact that you must scrape out the insulation, plug in any holes left where fittings used to be, and then prime the interior so that it is food-safe, this is a labor-intensive DIY project that requires elbow grease.
Make the necessary doors and hinges, weld on some legs to provide stability, and finish off with an adjustable grill.
Voila!
You’ve got a smoker ready to go for your weekend barbecues.
Make use of these how-to tutorials to learn how to make your own DIY smokers out of old water heaters.

2. Turn An Old Water Heater Into A Storage Tank

This is a simple do-it-yourself conversion project that makes use of your existing water heater.
Connect the inlet pipe of the new water heater to the inlet of the old water heater.
Connect the outlet of the old water heater to the input of the new water heater.
Consequently, the water that enters the old water heaters is brought to room temperature before it is sent to the new unit in this manner.
In addition, you may use it as a water storage tank for water that you can use outside.
Fill up your inflatable pool during summer playtime with the water left over from your old tank.

You may use it to water your lawn, wash your car, or fill up your old tank with water.

3. Turn An Old Water Heater Into A Solar Water Heater

Although an old water heater may not be suitable for conversion to a solar water heater, this does not rule it out.
It is even more efficient in a home with high utility expenditures as a result of the heating in the house.
The solar water heater makes use of the sun’s energy to warm water before it is delivered to your home.
Remove the tank’s casing and any insulation that may have been installed.
Heat retention and reflection are both improved by painting the surface with a non-fading black paint.
Construction of an enclosure for the old water heater that is lined with reflective material is recommended.

Polycarbonate panels should be used to cover the housing box.Connection and testing Your DIY water heater should be done by connecting it to your home’s central water system.Make certain that the pressure valve is operational in order to limit the possibility of an overheating mishap.

Pro tip: This is a time-consuming DIY project.It is possible that you may want the services of a solar energy professional to complete the water heater to solar heater conversion.If you believe it is a worthwhile undertaking, consult with a specialist.

4. Turn An Old Water Heater Into An Outdoor Wood Stove

Outdoor wood stoves operate in a similar manner as a fire pit.
The only difference is that the wood substance contains heat that is directed in a certain direction.
As a general rule, some water heaters are rather lengthy, and you may need to reduce them to make them more manageable.
Legs should be welded or a solid platform built at the bottom to elevate it off the ground.
Remove a part of the heater in order to create an air entrance.
If you want to make a door out of the cut-out, you may leave a gap at the bottom for an ash collecting container.

Attach a cylinder cutout on the other end of the chimney to complete the installation.

5. Create an Outdoor Planter Bed

Planter beds may be constructed from a variety of materials, including disused water heaters.
Old objects should be reused rather being discarded in a landfill or junkyard, as this reduces the amount of waste produced.
In a home garden, there is always place for interesting planters.
Old water heaters may be transformed into lovely garden pots.
You have the option of cutting the water heaters in the middle either vertically or horizontally.
Plant anything you wish on both half of the bed.

Tomatoes, bell peppers, chiles, and flowers are all good choices for container gardening.Compared to vertical planters, horizontal planters that appear like half-cylinder troughs have more surface area but less depth than vertical planters.Making a raised planter bed by halves the water heater and removing the interior tank and insulation is a simple and inexpensive project.

It may be necessary to weld a metal support to the halves in order to prevent the spherical part from rolling about.It is not, however, absolutely required.The soil’s weight will be adequate to keep the water heater planter in place.

How Much Is An Old Water Heater Worth For Scrap?

Scrap yards often price scrap based on its composition, which might be classified as light iron, light steel, shred, or mixed steel.
Selling the full water heater will get you around $0.04 or $0.05 per pound of weight.
If your old water heater weights around 150lbs, you will get approximately $7.
Prices might be as high as $30.
The amount you receive will be determined by a variety of factors, including the size of your old water heater, your location, and the current scrap market.

Is It Worth Scrapping A Water Heater?

Even if you don’t get much money for your old water heater, it will be worthwhile to get rid of it. If you’re going to rid of anything, you may as well make some money out of it, don’t you? Taking apart and selling valuable parts of your old water heater might help you gain money from the disposal of your old water heater.

How Do You Get More From Scrapping An Old Water Heater?

You will receive more money if you strip your water heater of any valuable metals before scrapping it rather than simply taking it to a scrap yard for recycling. In addition, you can do the following actions:

Remove valuable non-ferrous metals

Water heaters are densely packed with precious metals that would be more profitable to sell as single goods.
Copper, zinc, magnesium, and brass are among the metals that they have that demand higher prices.
A magnet can be used to locate nonferrous metals.
It should be operated from the top of the heater.
It is conceivable that you may come across valuable metals that will not adhere to the magnet.
It’s possible that the magnesium anode isn’t worth much, especially if it’s been completely eaten away by corrosion.

It is common practice to use the anode to eliminate contaminants that might otherwise degrade the tank’s interior liner, or anode.

Sell the regulator

At the scrap yard, gas tanks with the regulator are in high demand as valuable scrap metal. You could even be able to receive more money for the regulator than you would for the water heater. The regulator should be taken out and sold separately as a component.

How To Scrap Your Old Water Heater

Before you turn in your water heater to a scrap yard, you might want to make sure that it is in good working order when you deliver it. Take the following actions.

Step 1. Drain The heater

Scrap yards will weigh your tank and assign a value to it based on the amount of metal it contains. As a result, they will either drain it themselves or ask you to empty it for them. Before cleaning the tank, drain it completely.

Step 2. Strip Any Precious Metals

Taking this strategy will provide you with the greatest value for your heater.
These components include a high concentration of such metals.
Copper may be found in electric water heaters’ heating components, which can be identified by their color.
Copper is either wrapped up or placed in pipes to be used.
In other models, inspect the pipes, tubes, and other fittings for cracks or breaks.
Copper is worth up to $2.50 a pound, depending on the market.

If you wish to use brass, look for fittings, drain valves, and protective covers that are made of the material.Brass may be found in the control box knobs and burner assembly of gas tanks.Brass may be sold for as much as $1.50 per pound of weight.

Drain pans, valves, and pipes that are high in aluminum will sell for between 10 cents and $1.50.Those wondering why anode rods aren’t included in this list should know that they are generally not worth the hassle unless they have only recently been installed in the system.

Step 3. Find A Scrap Yard

It’s possible that you won’t have to travel far to find a scrapyard.
Local scrap yards may be found in almost every community.
For those who are having difficulty discovering scrap yards, online tools such as Scrap Monster and Scrap Spot can be quite helpful.
Apps may also be used to find information about costs and yards in real time.
Note: Some scrap yards need proof of identification before they can take scrap.
Take yours with you.

Prepare your papers and familiarize yourself with your state’s standards for scrapping and recycling.

What Is The Lifespan Of A Water Heater?

The average lifespan of a water heater is between 8 and 12 years, depending on the model. However, depending on how well they are maintained, certain water heaters may surpass that boundary. These and other factors might also have an impact on the longevity of your water heater. The quality of the water

Maintenance frequency

Initial installation quality

Your home’s location

If your existing water heater has reached the end of its useful life, it is reasonable to desire to replace it.

Final Thoughts

Water heaters that are more than a decade old may be difficult to repair.
If it gets to that stage, look into the most cost-effective choices, such as recycling or selling them to a junkyard.
To find out how to dispose of an old water heater, speak with a professional water heater recycling business and consider all of your alternatives.
Finding recycling locations and exchanging recycling tips are made easier with the help of resources such as Earth 911.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided on HomeInspectionInsider.com is not intended to be professional guidance.
Before beginning any job, you should contact with a competent expert and verify that all necessary permits have been obtained.

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What To Do With Old Water Heater

When it comes to water heater disposal and recycling, it’s probable that you didn’t give it much attention until you needed to replace your home’s water heater.
As a rule, hot water heaters last around 10 years, give or take a few years, so this isn’t something that homeowners have to deal with on a regular basis.
For many years, it was usual practice to just toss your old hot water heater in the trash as it reached the end of its useful life.
After becoming much more conscious of the environmental impact that all of our garbage has on the ecosystem, we have realized that there is virtually always a better solution.
This is true for the disposal of outdated water heaters as well.

How to Dispose of Hot Water Heater

A plumber who replaces and installs your new hot water heater is likely to cart away and properly dispose of your old water heater as part of their service.
This is the quickest and most convenient method of disposing of your water heater.
If you are looking for the quickest and most straightforward answer, it may be best to consult with the company that will be installing your new water heater first.
There are standards put down for these firms to guarantee they are not simply dumping your old water heater, but properly transporting away and disposing of old materials.
There may be an extra price for hauling away, although not frequently.
For those who choose to do it themselves and install their new water heater, they will need to figure out where to dispose of their old water heater when they have finished.

There are a few distinct possibilities for you.

Free Water Heater Disposal

It may be difficult for you to transfer your old hot water heater to a recycling center or scrapyard; however, there are a number of collection services that will come to your home and remove it away.
Check to see whether they are reliable and will be transporting your hot water heater to a proper recycling center rather than directly to a landfill before proceeding.
In other cases, unscrupulous firms would steal anything of value, such as copper coils or wiring, then illegally dump the 40 gallon water tank.
It is possible to hire a junk removal service, such as 1-800-GOT-JUNK or Junk King, for a little cost.
They will come to your home and remove your old heater, as well as any other rubbish you may have accumulated over the years.

Can you Scrap a Hot Water Heater?

Yes, you may recycle your old hot water heater, to provide you a speedy response.
Many recycling centers will take your water heater as scrap metal if it is in good condition.
There are a few procedures that must be completed prior to bringing your old water heater to a recycling facility.
If your old tank is completely emptied, it will typically be sufficient for disposal at bigger recycling facilities and scrap yards.

In order to earn the most money for your old water heater when selling it to a scrap yard that recycles various sorts of metal, you may want to disassemble the old water heater and split the parts into smaller pieces first.
Copper, brass, aluminum, and steel are among the metals that may be extracted from a tank that has been dismantled.
This may be necessary in order to earn the best possible return for your old junk water heater.
For example, because virtually all older water heaters have a copper coil, it may be worthwhile to take the time to remove the copper coil and recycle it on one’s own behalf.

Water Heater Recycling Near Me

In the event that you are not interested in selling your old water heater for cash, you may simply locate a water heater recycling center in your area.
Most communities have big recycling centers that can accommodate large goods such as 40-gallon water heaters; however, you will be responsible for transporting the item.
Always check with your local recycling facility before bringing in your old water heater.
While most will pay you the current scrap metal rate, some may charge you a disposal fee if you bring in your old water heater.

How Much Money Will I Make For Recycling Water Heater?

In exchange for scrapping a water heater, how much money do you get?
The scrap value of a water heater might vary depending on where you live.
Several factors influence the dollar amount, including your location and the size of the container (30 gallon, 40 gallon, 50 gallon), but the range is between $10 and $30, with the possibility of earning more if you are willing to get your hands dirty and disassemble parts in order to separate the more valuable copper components.
It is possible that the scrap metal price for water heater recycling will change depending on where you live, since various places have varied going prices for precious materials such as copper, steel, and brass.

Can I Donate a Working Old Water Heater?

If you’re upgrading your water heater just to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model or one that can better meet your needs, you can consider donating your old hot water heater.
It’s possible that a charitable organization or individuals in need exist in your neighborhood.
Continue to use the functional hot water heater rather than discarding it since it is more ecologically friendly.
It merely takes a few minutes to publish a free working water heater ad on Craigslist or in the local newspaper.
If you don’t want to use your old hot water heater, you may donate it to a bigger charity donation facility in your region such as The Salvation Army or Goodwill, or you can donate it to a local Habitat for Humanity center.
However, not all of these facilities will take significant gifts of this nature, but some would if the items are in good operating order.

Repurpose Your Old Hot Water Heater

Upcycling is a recent trend in the recycling sector, and it involves taking an old, unused object that would otherwise wind up in a landfill and transforming it into something new that has a specific purpose.
This method may be applied to your old hot water heater as well, if it is still functional.
For those who aren’t concerned with the minimal monetary value that you may or may not receive for scrapping their old hot water heater and who have a little bit of imagination and ingenuity, a fast search for upcycling water heater tanks will provide some really great ideas.

Remember that these tanks are quite durable, and if yours is free of physical damage, you may change it into anything you like, such a smoker, a fire pit, or a wood burning stove for your patio. You may lay it horizontally and cut out a part to use as a huge planter by laying it on its side. Repurposing outdated water heaters that are no longer in use opens up a plethora of options.

Hot Water Heater Recycling

To summarize, there are various solutions available for disposing of your old hot water heater, including the following: When hiring a professional plumber or business to perform the installation, they may typically pick up and dispose of your old system at the same time.
For quick cash, you may either scrap your old water heater in its entirety or have it disassembled to improve your payoff possibilities.
If your hot water heater is still in good working condition, you may be able to donate it.
The old water heater may be transformed into something fresh and helpful for you and your family, or it can be turned into an interesting home art project if you are the creative sort.

How to Dispose of a Water Heater

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Disposing of a water heater can be a difficult task. Especially if you’re working alone. Here’s an easy way to do it all by yourself.

Water heaters are large, clumsy, and cumbersome. If yours fails and you still want to get rid of it on your own, you’ll need to solicit the assistance of a professional. Unless, of course, you follow these straightforward instructions for disposing of it.

What to Do With an Old Water Heater

If your water heater is no longer functional, you’ll want to get rid of it immediately.
You may sell it on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace if it’s still in good working order and you’re just updating your system.
If that doesn’t work, you may put a notice on any of those websites, since scrappers are always looking for free metal waste to haul away and dispose of at recycling facilities.
If you need to move the water heater out of your house but don’t have someone to help you, consider breaking it in half and carrying it alone.

Steps for Making it Easier to Get Water Heater Out of House

Use a ferrous metal cutting blade on your circular saw to cut through ferrous metal.
This procedure will include the use of sparks and the possibility of flying metal fragments.
This project necessitates the use of safety glasses, long sleeves, hearing protection, and suitable work gloves.
Installing the water heater on its side allows you to use a circular saw to cut through metal.
Toss the blade guard into the tank and plunge the saw into the water
Make a diagonal cut across the tank. As soon as you realize you can’t go any farther, roll the tank and continue cutting
You should wait until the saw blade stops spinning before lifting it off the tank once you have finished cutting all the way around.

How and Where to Recycle a Water Heater

Make contact with your local recycling firm.
Some municipalities may collect water heaters as part of their normal recycling collection.
Another alternative is to take it to a recycling center yourself and have it recycled as scrap.
Steel water heaters with copper and brass components are used in the construction of water heaters.
A recycling center will compensate you at the current market rate for the metal.
In the event that you don’t want to deal with taking it in, you may dispose of half of the water heater in your trash can (if it fits) one week and then dispose of the other half the following week as well.

For further information, speak with your waste hauler.Many companies will also pick up the entire water heater if you notify them in advance of the pickup.

Water Heater Disposal: Recycling Your Old Water Heater

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As far as I can recall, you would have disposed of your old water heater in a junkyard when it had reached the end of its useful life.
We now have a better grasp of environmental issues, which makes water heater recycling a far more enticing alternative option.
In addition to the environment, there are other issues involved.
The cost of a new water heater might be significant.

It is possible to lower your overall carbon footprint by recycling your old water heater.It’s also a convenient method to create some quick income, which may help make up for the fact that you’ll have to purchase a replacement water heater.It doesn’t matter whether your water heater has a leak that can’t be repaired or if it’s just old and inefficient and you’d want to save money on your energy bills; there are several options available for disposing of your water heater.

How to recycle your old water heater, with little fuss.

Local scrapyards may be found all around the United States, and they can pay you cash up front for a range of recyclable products.
In fact, some people save cans and glass bottles from everyday use and then bring them to these scrapyards when they have amassed a significant amount; this is particularly common in states that do not offer bottle redemption (I personally did this while living in Ohio), and it is particularly common in states that do not offer bottle redemption.
When you take your old water heater to one of these scrapyards, it is frequently possible to recycle it in its original condition.
When it comes to engaging in water heater recycling, this one-step approach is by far the most convenient, especially when it comes to the instant benefit to your money.
Scrapyards advertise their pricing publicly, and it is probable that they will include a precise price for water heaters.

If you have the tools, you can tear a water heater apart, and see what’s inside!

When it comes to water heaters, a scrapyard will often provide a price.
This may be reliant on the components included within a water heater, which may include a metal coil for heating water as it flows through the appliance, among other things.
In contrast to newer water heaters, which may have coils constructed of different materials, older water heaters are almost always designed with copper coils as standard.
Because a water heater may survive anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on how frequently it is used, there is a good chance that any old water heater you come across will have a copper coil inside.
It is likely that, depending on the material from which your old water heater’s coil was constructed, you will be able to obtain a higher price for its contents than you can for the device as a whole.
While the amount of work you’re prepared to put into water heater recycling is mostly dependent on your own preferences, dismantling an old water heater isn’t very difficult.

Take the time to pull off bits and bobs.

Water heaters are typically classified as mixed-metal objects by scrapyards because they include tin as well as a trace quantity of iron.
However, there are very certainly minor objects, such as spouts, pipes, and spigots, that are made of non-ferrous metals, such as copper, in the collection.
Copper is a more desirable scrap metal than iron or tin because of its higher melting point.
Remove these protruding pipes and other parts from an old water heater and you may increase the total scrap value of the unit by a significant amount, even if you don’t bother to open it up to examine what’s inside.
I would still highly suggest you to do so since, if you have copper pipes on the exterior of your water heater, there is a considerable probability that you will find a copper coil on the interior of the water heater.
Copper and other non-ferrous products should be recycled separately in order to reap the benefits of their higher resale value.

If you’re a salvager who has been successful in obtaining a number of old water heaters for recycling, you will find this step to be really beneficial.

Practical water heater recycling involves putting old water heaters to new use.

It’s feasible to utilize an old water heater to increase the efficiency of a modern water heater, but it takes a little know-how to do.
This has the potential to significantly increase the lifespan of a modern water heater.
Take an old water heater (be careful to use one that isn’t leaking) and place it in a warm spot to do this.
However, instead of plugging it into an electrical outlet, you should instead connect it to your home’s water system so that it may serve as an intermediary stopping point for cold water that is on its way to your new hot water heater.
Your old water heater will serve as a tempering tank, gently warming cold water as it passes through it.
Additionally, you will save money in the long term since you will be putting less pressure on your new water heater while also minimizing the demands on your home’s energy consumption.

Consider donating your old water heater.

Sometimes a water heater has to be replaced because it is just too small to handle the amount of water required by a large household.
If this is the case, and your old water heater is still in good working order, I would advise that you consider donating it at the very least.
You may place an ad in the local newspaper or on the internet offering a functional hot water heater to anyone who is willing to pick it up and transport it.
Alternatively, you might check with your local Goodwill or Salvation Army chapter for assistance.
Their sites accept hot water heaters that are still operational; they’ll even come to your home and take it up for you, and the contribution will qualify as a beneficial tax break for your business or household.

Water Heater Disposal: Junk It, Recycle It, or Repurpose It

Water heater disposal isn’t something that comes to mind on a regular basis.Quite maybe, it didn’t even cross your mind until after you made the decision to replace your water heater.Your old water heater must be disposed of, and you must find out how to do this.Taking it to the landfill is frequently the first thing that comes to mind most homeowners, but you might be surprised to learn that you have a variety of other choices.

Water Heater Disposal Options

In the event that you hired a plumber to do the installation, there’s a high possibility you won’t have to bother about disposing of your old water heater.Many companies include water heater disposal as part of their service, and they simply carry the unit away after they have completed the job for you.However, if you decide to do it yourself (whether it’s installing a gas water heater or installing an electric water heater), you’ll have to figure out what to do with your old water heater afterward.Water heater disposal might be difficult due to the fact that regulations differ from state to state; nonetheless, there are a variety of choices available.Some may even be able to assist you in defraying the cost of your new unit!

Junk It

Landfill

Water heater disposal is available at the majority of municipal landfills. Prepare to pay a charge to dispose of your waste, and always attempt to locate a more environmentally friendly alternative first, unless local landfill has a recycling program.

Garbage Service

Water heaters and other large appliances may often be picked up from the curb in many locations.It is possible that some will seek to recycle or refurbish the item.Be aware that there are typically additional fees associated with the convenience of the service.If a pick-up time is required, you may need to book one; nevertheless, if this service is available to dispose of your water heater, it can save you the trouble of transporting it elsewhere yourself.Don’t forget to empty the tank before you go!

Junk Removal Service

Companies such as 1-800-GOT-JUNK?are examples of this.will make arrangements to take up your water heater whenever it is most convenient for you…even today!They make every effort to donate or recycle all of the materials they collect, and only as a last resort would they resort to dumping the items in a landfill.

Although using these sorts of services will not fix your water heater disposal problem, you will be able to undertake some extra cleaning as a result of it.What better way to get rid of all the extra clutter that has accumulated about your home than to have it taken away together with your old water heater?

Recycle It

Recycling Centers

Water heaters are accepted by a large number of recycling facilities.These facilities often disassemble the water heater and then sell the scrap metal to another vendor, where it will be recycled and utilized in the production of other products.The majority of tanks are composed of steel, with brass and copper fittings as accents.Most of the time, a recycling business will give you a certain amount and then shred the unit.It is not unusual for recycling organizations to charge you a fee for bringing your water heater to them for recycling purposes.

Although, you may be fortunate in that some institutions will actually arrange for it to be picked up.Many states require the vendor to provide a valid ID and to be at least 18 years old before they can sell to you.Despite the fact that scrap metal requirements differ from state to state, it is a good habit to contact the recycling facility prior to sending off your heater for recycling.

Donate to Charity

If your water heater is still operational, disposing of it might be a simple process.Homeowners frequently find themselves in the position of having to update their water heater in order to satisfy their household hot water demands.This leaves a functional unit that can be donated, particularly if it is in good condition.Make contact with donation organizations such as the Goodwill.They frequently take functional water heaters, and you will be able to deduct your donation from your taxes as a charity contribution.

Local Government

Some communities provide people with a convenient way to dispose of their water heaters. For further information, check with your local government. Don’t be shocked if they charge you a price for their services.

Recycle it Yourself (Scrap it)

It is possible to earn money from recycling your old water heater if you are willing to take on the effort.This money may be used to help offset the expense of your new water heater.Scraping your water heater isn’t as tough as it appears, and you may sell the nonferrous metals that are left behind after scrapping it.Both gas and electric water heaters can be disposed of in this manner; however, due to the presence of the regulator, gas versions will be more valuable.If the regulator is still in good working order, it can be scrapped or sold as a standalone item.

Additionally, you might take the regulator to a scrap yard and sell it to them.You’ll be able to tell what kind of metal was used to make the pipes if you have a magnet handy.If the magnet sticks to the metal, it means that the pipes are composed of steel.However, if they are not composed of copper or brass, there is a very significant probability that they may be resold if they are found.Pay close attention for heavy-gauge copper electrical wire.

It is commonly used throughout the water heater and may be resold if it is no longer needed.Always keep an eye out for corrosion, since many brass fittings become unidentifiable as a result.Once again, check the fittings with a knife or screwdriver, since it’s always a pleasant pleasure to discover these tiny surprises after believing that all of the costly metal has been removed!

Advertise

Create a classified ad in your local newspaper or on Craig’s List, or you can simply leave it outside with a note noting that it is still in working condition.While you might be able to resell it for a few bucks, it’s more likely that you’ll simply donate it.Even if your water heater isn’t operating, this procedure is a safe and effective way to dispose of it.There are a large number of people that are interested in purchasing outdated appliances to recycle.

Repurpose It

Solar Water Heater

It is an excellent repurposing project, especially if your tank is still in good condition and does not leak water into your home.Dismantle the exterior metal shell and remove the insulation as well as any electrical controls that are there.The tank should be painted with flat black paint (which will absorb the heat).Using reflective material, construct and insulate a box, then cover the interior with it.The box’s front should be made of glass to protect it from damage.

Incorporate the tank into the box by screwing it in place.Your new tank will ″draw″ hot water from the solar (old) tank whenever hot water is required within the house.Profit from the opportunity to save money while lowering your energy use.

Watch the Video

Grill or Smoker

Depending on your desire, you can cut the tank horizontally or vertically in half. Legs, hinges, and a handle should all be welded together. Although a compressor is shown being repurposed in this video, a water heater may also be used to create a grill.

Watch the Video

Other Creative Options

There are as many imaginative projects you can construct with an old water heater tank as there are ideas you have in your head for them. From wood fires to water barrels to flower pots, there’s something for everyone. A do-it-yourself project may lead to some remarkable results if you are enthusiastic about it.

Water Heater Disposal: How to Get Rid of Your Old Water Heater

When you realized that you needed to replace your old water heater, it’s likely that getting rid of it was the last thing on your mind.Despite this, you find yourself with two water heaters: one that is brand new and one that is ancient.Purchasing a new water heater from a firm that specializes in the sale and installation of water heaters is a popular option for many homeowners.The good news is that if you choose this option, you won’t have to worry about disposing of your water heater because the business will most likely take care of it for you.Making a decision about what to do with your old heater, on the other hand, might be difficult if you are a do-it-yourself type of person.

How to Get Rid of Your Water Heater

Disposing of a hot water heater might be difficult. Each state has its own set of rules and laws. Consider the following alternatives to disposing of your old water heater.

Donate Your Water Heater

Many people find themselves in need of an update to their water heater because they require more hot water than their current unit can provide.If your water heater is still in good working order and in good condition, you may be able to donate it.Inquire with your local Goodwill or other donation center to see if they will take a functional water heater as a donation.If they do, not only will you be able to assist someone in need, but you will also be able to make a tax-deductible gift as a result of your efforts.If you are unable to locate a charitable organization that would take your gift, you can consider placing an advertisement in your local newspaper or on Craig’s List.

If your old heater is no longer functional, placing an advertisement may be a viable option.It’s possible that you’ll be able to locate someone who will buy it for the scrap metal.

Recycle Your Water Heater

There are several recycling firms that will accept water heaters and scrap them for the metal contained within them.The majority of water heater tanks are built of steel, with copper and brass fittings as optional extras.Recycling facilities will frequently give you the current market rate for your item; however, some may charge you a fee to remove the device from their facility.Additionally, there are a few recycling centers that will arrange for a pickup of your old heater from your home.Please check with your center before to delivering the unit because scrap metal recycling rules differ from state to state.

Many states demand that the seller be at least 18 years old and to provide a valid identification card.If you are unable to locate a recycling center that can accept your old water heater, you can contact your local government for assistance.They frequently have systems in place to assist people in disposing of items such as water heaters.

Put Your Water Heater in the Garbage

Make contact with your rubbish collection service.Large appliances can be picked up at the curb in some places, and the equipment is typically refurbished or recycled as a result of this service.You’ll most certainly have to pay an additional fee for this service, but if your waste company provides it, disposing of your water heater is as simple as emptying it and carrying it to the street!

Take Your Water Heater to a Landfill

If you are unable to locate a recycling facility, you may choose to contact your local landfill for assistance. Water heaters are often accepted and disposed of for a charge by these facilities. Occasionally, they have a recycling program accessible to them. Of course, it’s usually a good idea to explore a few different approaches first.

Hire a Junk Removal Service to Haul Your Water Heater Away

1-800-GOT-JUNK?or another junk removal service is recommended.arrange for the collection and disposal of your water heater on your behalf.They provide same-day collection and will pick up your water heater from wherever you happen to have it parked at the time.In fact, other than making the phone call (although we recommend that you turn off your heating), you won’t have to do much else because they will clean up after themselves, leaving the space neat and tidy!

1-800-GOT-JUNK is glad to say that they make every effort to avoid dumping of collected things in landfills and that they recycle or donate items whenever feasible.

Scrap Your Water Heater Yourself

If you are prepared to put in the effort, you may scrap your old water heater yourself and sell the non-ferrous metals that are recovered.Because of the regulator, gas water heaters are more valuable, but electric water heaters are equally worth your time to investigate.Begin at the top of your tank and inspect the fittings and pipes that go to your water heater for problems.Make use of a magnet.If the magnet sticks to the metal, it means that the pipes are composed of steel.

If not, they are most likely copper or brass, and they can be resold as scrap metal.You might also try pounding them with a rubber mallet if the pipe wrench isn’t doing the trick.The only option left is to chop them off with a saw if nothing else is working well.Water heaters are often wired with thick gauge copper wiring throughout their construction.Alternatively, if you have recently changed your heater’s anode rod, you may be able to remove it as well.

The majority of anode rods are constructed of aluminum, magnesium, or an aluminum/zinc/tin alloy; copper is also occasionally used as an anode rod.For the sake of extending the life of the steel tank, the rod is engineered to break down and sacrifice its own material.As a general rule, unless the anode rod has recently been changed, it is usually not worth the effort to attempt to retrieve it for resale.Depending on whether your water heater was a gas or electric model, it will have a gas regulator on the exterior of the tank towards the bottom.The regulator is constructed of a variety of metals, most often zinc or aluminum alloys and brass.In addition, brass knobs on the regulator are not unusual to come across.

Taking apart and reselling the gas regulator on your own is the most cost-effective method of disposal.This will almost certainly result in the best pricing, especially if you have some experience.Although many scrap yards will provide special pricing to regulators if you don’t feel safe selling it on your own, many will not.In any case, the regulator is likely to obtain the greatest possible price for your junk.

When it comes to electric water heaters, heating components are typically composed of zinc-plated copper or stainless steel, among other materials.On the tank, they are positioned below the top and bottom access panels, and should be quite simple to remove.To ensure that everything is in working order, use a knife or screwdriver to double-check all of the fittings.Because of corrosion, brass fittings are frequently rendered unidentifiable.

With a pipe wrench, they can be tough to remove; however, a few sledgehammer blows will usually get them to come loose.Obviously, scraping a water heater isn’t for everyone, but with a little work, it may help you save money on the cost of a new water heater, which can be beneficial.

Removing the Old Water Heater

Back to the top of the page It is recommended that you read the printed instructions that came with your water heater in addition to the material on this web site. Read and observe any warning labels on the water heater, as well as the safety recommendations in the printed owner’s handbook, to limit the danger of property damage, serious injury, or death.

Step 1: Tools Required

Hose for the garden
hand truck or appliance dolly
Pipe cutter, screwdriver, wrenches, and a bucket (optional) are all necessary tools.

Step 2: Turn the Water Heater OFF

Turn the knob on the gas control valve on the old water heater to the ″OFF″ position to turn it off.

Step 3: Turn the Main Gas Supply Valve OFF

Turn the main gas supply valve OFF.

Step 4: Break the Gas Line at the Union

Break the gas line at the union (you’ll need two wrenches for this)
Close off the gas line

Step 5: Disconnect Gas Supply

Using a wrench, pry the gas line from the control valve of the old water heater.

Step 6: Run the Hot Water Until it’s Cool

(this may take 10 minutes or longer).″>Open a hot water faucet and allow the hot water to run until it is cool (this may take 10 minutes or longer).″>Open a cold water faucet and allow the cold water to run until it is cool (this may take 10 minutes or longer).″>Open a hot water faucet and allow the hot water to run until it is cool (this may take 10 minutes or longer).
WARNING! As a precaution, make sure the water is running cool before emptying the old water heater to avoid burning yourself.

Step 7: Connect a Garden Hose to Drain Valve

Connection: Attach a garden hose to the water heater’s drain valve and dispose of the other end in a drain, outside, or in a bucket to collect the water.

Step 8: Turn the Cold Water Supply OFF

Turn the cold water supply OFF.

Step 9: Open the Drain Valve

Drain the water from the old water heater by opening the drain valve.
Opening a hot water faucet will assist in draining the water heater more quickly.
Some drain valves may be opened with a handle, but others need the use of a flat blade screwdriver.
Make sure that the water heater is totally draining
Disconnect the garden hose
A build-up of sediment at the bottom of the tank may jam the drain valve, making it impossible for the tank to drain correctly. Contact a competent expert for assistance if you are unable to get the tank to drain properly

Step 10: Disconnect the T&P Relief Valve Discharge Pipe

The Temperature and Pressure (T&P) Relief Valve discharge line should be disconnected after the tank is completely depleted
you may be able to reuse the discharge pipe, but DO NOT REUSE THE OLD T&P RELIEF VALVE. You should make use of the new T&P relief valve that came with your new water heater.

Step 11: Remove Vent Pipe

Allow for cooling of the vent pipe. If necessary, support the vent pipe until the new water heater is installed. Once the vent pipe has cooled, remove it from the draft hood
you may need to support it until the new water heater is installed.

Step 12: Disconnect the Water Pipes

Prior to removing the water pipes, plan how you will connect the new water heater to the existing system. If you are using compression fittings, cut the water pipes as near as feasible to the water heater, leaving as much length as possible in the water pipes. You may always trim them to length later.″>Before removing the water pipes, plan how you will connect the new water heater to the existing system. If you are using compression fittings, cut the water pipes as near as feasible to the water heater, leaving as much length as possible in the water pipes. You can trim them to length later if necessary.
Disconnect the cold and hot water pipes that are connected to the old water heater and set them aside. In many cases, they are joined using a threaded union that may be detached with a wrench.

Step 13: Remove the Old Water Heater

Remove the old water heater from the room. Move the water heater with the use of a hand truck or an appliance dolly.
WARNING: Water heaters are quite hefty. If you don’t have an appliance dolly, it’s best to have two or more people help you remove or install a water heater. Failure to do so may result in a back injury or another type of harm.

How To Scrap A Water Heater

Gas and electric water heaters are the two most common types of water heaters that I come with on a daily basis. The Scrap Gas Water Heater is a device that heats water using scrap gas. Gas water heaters are generally considered to be valuable scrap metal. I come across these on a very regular basis, and I’m always pleased when I do. When complete, they are classed as a light-iron/shred/mixed-metal/tin item and are classified as a home appliance. However, there is generally a substantial amount of non-ferrous scrap metal that you should be able to remove before anything else. There may be one or two copper pipes protruding from the top of the heater, as well as a brass connector, at the cap portion of the heater. Check to see if they are made of copper or brass by using a magnet. If the pipe is made of simple iron, it will not stick. If this is the case, remove them with a pipe wrench. If they are too rusted to be removed, either break them off by repeatedly hammering them with a hammer or cut them off with a sawzall to remove them. Remove the valve protruding out of the tank near the top of the tank with a pipe wrench. A mineral deposit stick, which in my experience is frequently copper in natural gas reservoirs, is what this is. Every gas water heater is equipped with a gas regulator, which is located towards the bottom of the tank. A mix of brass and cast zinc/aluminum is used to construct them, which also have some brass knobs on them. These gas regulators (which can also be found on scrap gas grills and scrap ovens and stoves) fetch a premium in my yard, and they are well worth removing because they are worth at least twice the price of shred steel, and often even four times the price of shred steel. Because they are expensive to replace, it may be worthwhile to resell them if you have the necessary expertise. An example regulator is shown on the left, and as you can see, it is fairly useful, costing less than one-third the price of a new heater in comparison. Only a few powerful sledge hammer blows will be required to easily dislodge these gas regulators from their mounting brackets. The Electric Water Heater that was discarded According to my observations, the electric water heater is less frequently encountered, but it is still useful for scrap! Electric water heaters do not require gas regulators since they do not utilize gas to heat the water. (duh.) Electric water heaters, on the other hand, heat water using heating components rather than gas. Electric heating elements are typically constructed of zinc-plated copper or stainless steel sheathing that is wrapped around a nichrome wire. They are also available in other materials. They are placed inside the water heater and must be removed by dismantling the appliance through access bays provided on the side of the appliance, as shown in the illustration. Additionally, water heaters have what are known as ″anodes,″ which are designed to be corroded away by the water heater’s electric current, preventing the steel container from becoming rusted (self sacrifice if you will). If you try to take them out, you will find that they are heavily rusted because they are often composed of magnesium or aluminum. It is preferable for me not to bother at all. DON’T’s It is not necessary to attempt to fill them with water in order to deceive the scales. You will just make an additional $30 or so, and it is quite simple to learn how to do this. If you are detected, your scrap yard will (or should) press charges
\s Don’t pass up fittings. Some brass fittings may be severely rusted, and might consequently be hard to recognize, and/or hard to remove. Be sure to check all fittings with a file. And if you can’t seem to get the fittings off with a pipe wrench, then I recommend setting the heater on the ground and pulling out your sledge hammer. Most brass fittings will break of after a few good hits
\s Don’t get caught with your pants down! Some Water heaters are made of very valuable metals (copper, brass, ect) more often then not if they are very old. DON’T forget to check everything

Good Luck Scrapping!