As technology updates and your old tools become outdated, how to dispose of them responsibly becomes a pressing issue. One such tool is the old lawn mower, which cant simply be tossed in the trash due to its potential environmental impact.
With this in mind, our team of junk removal experts are bringing you some ideas on what to do with an old lawn mower, which balance convenience with both environmental considerations and legal regulations.
Before you begin the lawn mower disposal process, its important to understand the regulations and guidelines set by your local government or waste management authorities. These regulations can vary widely depending on your location. Some areas may have specific rules regarding the disposal of large appliances.
Look up your city or countys official website, or contact the local waste management authority to find information about disposal guidelines, collection events, and designated drop-off points. This step ensures youre following the correct procedures according to your local laws.
Some areas might require permits or have restrictions on how you can dispose of certain items. For instance, they might prohibit placing lawn mowers in regular trash pickups or have specific dates for large item collection.
Before you dispose of your old lawn mower, its essential to properly clean and drain it to prevent leaks, spills, and contamination during transport and dismantling.
Remove gasoline and oil, which are hazardous materials that can harm the environment if they leak during disposal. You can run the mower until the tank is empty to use up the remaining fuel.
Detach plug wires and take out spark plugs to prevent accidental engine ignition during the disposal process. This step is vital for your safety and for those handling the mower later.
Clear out any debris, grass clippings, and dirt from the mower. Cleaning the mower makes it safer to handle and ensures that contaminants wont be spread during recycling or disposal.
Lawn mowers consist of various materials that can be recycled, such as metals (steel, aluminum), plastics, and potentially other components such as rubber tires.
Contact recycling centers and find out about their lawn mower policies. Ask about drop-off procedures, whether they may pick up lawn mowers, any requirements for disassembly, and whether they accept both gas-powered and electric mowers.
If the recycling center accepts lawn mowers, they might have specific instructions for preparation. This could include draining any remaining fluids, removing the battery, and separating components such as blades.
So you have an old lawn mower that you need to get rid of. Whether it’s broken down beyond repair or you are looking to upgrade to a new model, disposing of a lawn mower requires more thought than simply tossing it in the trash. There are several options for responsibly getting rid of a gas or electric mower, ranging from recycling to selling or donating it. This guide will walk through the main methods for lawn mower disposal and important factors to consider.
Evaluate the Lawn Mower’s Condition
The first step is to assess the status of your mower. Is it still in working order or is it broken? For broken mowers that are beyond repair, your options are more limited but there are still responsible ways to dispose of it. If the mower still runs fine, you have more choices like selling it secondhand or donating to a community group.
Inspect your mower and try starting it to see if it works. Check for any wiring issues, leaks, or other visible damage. Diagnosing problems can help determine if it’s fixable or ready for disposal. If you plan to sell or donate it, proper functioning will impact the value.
Drain Fluids from Gas Mowers
For gas mowers, it’s essential to drain the oil and gasoline completely before disposal. Make sure to have containers ready to collect these hazardous fluids. Allow the mower to run dry of fuel first. Then tip the mower over to access the oil drain and drain all remaining oil into an approved container.
Improper fluid drainage can lead to leaks and contamination of waste sites or recycling centers. Some locations may reject lawn mowers that still contain gas or oil. Drained fluids will need to be disposed of or recycled separately at approved drop-off locations.
Remove the Battery from Electric Mowers
If you have a battery-powered electric mower, remove the battery by following manufacturer instructions Unplug any charging cables as well Batteries should never be thrown in the regular trash, as they contain heavy metals and corrosive materials. Instead, the battery must be taken to a hazardous waste disposal or recycling location.
Some waste management companies may remove batteries from mowers during pickup. Otherwise, you can take the battery to an electronics recycling center or battery recycler. Removing it yourself ensures proper handling.
Research Local Regulations on Disposal
Rules for lawn mower disposal vary by municipality, so check your local ordinances first. Some areas prohibit placing mowers at the curb or in landfills Contact your garbage collection company or check municipal websites for relevant guidelines There may be special collection days or approved drop-off sites.
For example many cities forbid disposal of gas mowers that still contain oil or fuel. Rules also differ for handling batteries and electronics. Knowing the laws ahead of time prevents illegal dumping fines or rejections at waste sites.
Consider Selling or Donating the Mower
For mowers still in working order, consider alternative disposal options before resorting to the trash. Try selling the mower through classified ads or community groups to extend its useful life. Someone may need an affordable mower and be willing to accept any quirks.
Donating to a charitable organization or community center can also give the mower new life. Nonprofits may refurbish mowers and sell them to raise funds or provide to the needy.
Selling or donating eliminates waste and benefits others, but only if the mower is operational and safely drained of fluids. Disclose any known issues.
Take Advantage of Scrap Metal Recycling
Lawn mowers contain recyclable metals, such as steel and aluminum. Rather than sending old mowers to the dump, the metal components can be reclaimed through scrap recycling programs. This reduces waste sent to landfills.
Remove plastic covers and other non-metal parts first. Then take the mower’s metal frame, motor, and parts to a metal recycling center. Call ahead to ask about requirements, as some locations want the mower partially disassembled beforehand. Recycling the metal can also earn you a bit of cash back for the scrap value.
Use Special Pickup Services for Large Items
Contact your city’s bulky waste pickup program to schedule a special collection for the old mower. Many municipalities offer large item pickup services for a fee. This convenient option prevents you from having to transport the mower yourself.
Make sure to ask about any requirements for disposal when scheduling the pickup. Fees often depend on the type and size of items. Prepare the mower properly by removing dangerous fluids ahead of time so it meets criteria for removal.
Take the Mower to a Hazardous Waste Disposal Site
If all else fails, unwanted mowers can be taken to a hazardous waste drop-off location or transfer station. Gas mowers typically fall into this category when they can no longer be reused or recycled.
Use the EPA’s website to locate your closest household hazardous waste collection site. Follow any site rules on allowable items and quantities. There may be disposal fees based on what you drop off. Proper hazardous waste disposal prevents dangerous materials from harming the environment and people.
Ensure Proper Handling of Gas and Oil
The gas and oil drained from a discarded mower also require safe disposal methods. Most auto part stores will accept used oil at no charge. For leftover gas, pour it into a working vehicle’s gas tank to use it up. Never dump oils, gasoline or any toxic chemicals into drains, sewers or ground soil.
Take excess fluids you can’t reuse to household hazardous waste collection sites. Some auto part retailers also collect oil and gas for recycling or disposal. Follow all storage and transport guidelines to avoid leaks, spills or contamination.
Avoid Unsafe Disposal Practices
When getting rid of an old mower, resist the urge to take unsafe shortcuts which could endanger others or the environment. Even if the mower no longer works, irresponsible disposal has serious consequences. Here are some key don’ts:
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Don’t dump it illegally on public or private property. This can incur hefty fines if caught.
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Don’t put it out with the trash if prohibited by local laws. Mowers often don’t belong in landfills.
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Don’t drain oil or gas into ground areas, storm drains or regular drains. This causes major pollution problems.
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Don’t hide mechanical issues if selling or donating the mower. Disclose any known problems to the recipient.
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Don’t give or sell the mower to a scrap dealer if it still contains fluids. Drain it thoroughly first.
Disassemble the Mower for Easier Recycling
If you want to recycle the mower’s components through scrap yards, fully disassembling the mower first makes the process easier. Use proper tools to detach the wheels, handle, blade, engine parts and other removable pieces. Separate different metals and materials.
This extra step takes more time and effort but maximizes how much of the mower gets recycled rather than trashed. Some scrap yards also require the mower to be broken down before accepting items. Remove any non-metal parts and plastic pieces which may contaminate the metal recycling stream.
Safely store and label the disassembled components until you transport them for recycling. Wear protective gear when taking the mower apart.
Find Creative Ways to Reuse or Repurpose Parts
Before dismantling the entire mower, explore ways to salvage usable parts for other applications. Get creative with reusing items in DIY projects, art pieces, or practical fixes around your home.
The blade can become a wall decoration, wheels repurposed for furniture and engine parts used in mechanical tinkering. Offer usable components for free on community boards or salvage sites for pickup. With some imagination, all kinds of mower parts can enjoy a renewed purpose.
Seek Professional Assistance for Disposal
For those lacking the time, means or know-how to properly dispose of a lawn mower, seek professional junk removal assistance. Companies like 1800GotJunk specialize in responsibly getting rid of unwanted items like old mowers.
They can safely handle draining hazardous fluids, loading and transporting the mower, recycling eligible parts and following all local disposal regulations. Professional services protect you from potential injuries or fines.
Dispose of Lawn Mowers Responsibly
With the right information and preparation, getting rid of an old gas or electric mower can be straightforward. Follow local waste ordinances and prioritize recycling metal components and safe handling of oils and gasoline. Selling or donating a working mower keeps it out of the waste stream longer.
Think through all disposal options to balance affordability, convenience and environmental responsibility. And never take dangerous shortcuts which could jeopardize health or the planet. Practicing safe, lawful lawn mower disposal benefits communities now and preserves resources for the future.
Donate or resell lawn mower
Donating or reselling your old lawn mower can be a rewarding way to extend its useful life and reduce waste.
Look for local charities, community organizations, or individuals who might be interested in receiving a used lawn mower. Websites, social media platforms, and community bulletin boards can be helpful resources.
Check out our guide on how to donate houseware and furniture here.
If the mower is in decent condition, you could consider selling it. Platforms such as online classifieds, marketplace websites, or local buy-and-sell groups are great places to list your mower.
Disassembling the lawn mower can aid in separating its components for proper recycling and disposal. However, this step requires caution and some mechanical skills.
Refer to the manufacturers manual for guidance on disassembly. Manuals often provide step-by-step instructions and safety precautions. If you no longer have the manual, check out an online archive such as Manuals Online to find your mower.
Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and protective eyewear, when disassembling the mower. Some parts might still have sharp edges or residual fluids.
Use the right tools for disassembly to avoid damaging components. Common tools might include wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers.
Separate components such as the engine, frame, cutting blade, and plastic parts. Keep metals separate from plastics, as they will likely be recycled differently. Then, organize and store the components safely until youre ready to transport them to the appropriate disposal or recycling facilities.
Before disposing of your old lawn mower, consider salvaging any parts that are still in good condition and can be used for repairs, replacements, or other projects.
Carefully inspect the various parts of the lawn mower, such as the starter motor, wheels, handles, and other functional components. Store the salvaged parts in a safe and organized manner. Label them if necessary, so you can easily identify and use them in the future.
Reach out to local lawn mower repair shops or DIY enthusiasts who might be interested in purchasing or using the salvaged parts. Consider listing the parts on online marketplaces or platforms that specialize in selling used parts. This can connect you with potential buyers looking for cost-effective solutions.
If your lawn mower is electric and has a battery, it falls under electronic waste (e-waste). E-waste must be handled properly because it contains hazardous materials.
If your electric lawn mower has a removable battery, detach it according to the manufacturers instructions. Recycling these batteries helps recover these materials while preventing environmental contamination.
Locate e-waste recycling facilities in your area. These facilities are equipped to handle batteries and other electronic components safely.
Take the battery and any other electronic components to the designated e-waste collection point. Many communities have specific drop-off locations for e-waste.
In some cases, hiring a professional disposal service might be the most suitable option, especially if youre dealing with hazardous materials or complex disassembly.
Research waste disposal companies that specialize in handling hazardous materials and large appliances such as lawn mowers. At 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, we handle all types of junk, recycling what we can and disposing of the rest safely and responsibly.
Contact the disposal services to understand their offerings, including pickup, transportation, and environmentally responsible disposal methods. When contacting us, you can be sure that we will comply with local regulations and environmental guidelines for proper waste management.
How to Mow a Lawn CORRECTLY
FAQ
Who picks up old lawn mowers for free?
1-800-GOT-JUNK? will take your old lawn mower to be recycled or disposed of with no hassle to you. We know how to get rid of your junk responsibly and safely. If you need help getting rid of outdated outdoor equipment, such as lawn mowers and trimmers, find your local 1-800-GOT-JUNK?
How do I get rid of a lawn mower near me?
Answer: To dispose of an old lawnmower, call your local waste hauler and schedule a bulky item pick-up. If your lawnmower contains gasoline, it will need to be removed and taken to a location that collects household hazardous waste.
Does Home Depot take old lawn mowers?
Some even specialize in “small engine recycling near me”, ensuring your mower is responsibly recycled. Home Improvement Stores: Chains like Home Depot sometimes offer “lawn mower recycling home depot” events where you can bring old equipment for safe disposal.
How to put away a lawn mower?
- Remove the battery and store. Here are some battery storage tips.
- Remove fuse key.
- Remove grass bag.
- Clean the machine.
- Lubricate moving parts with oil or grease.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
How do I dispose of my old lawn mower?
In most areas, you’ll need to transport your old lawn mower to a local recycling facility or attend a designated drop-off event. Before recycling, be prepared to pay a small disposal fee and have a professional remove any remaining gas or oil. Proper fluid removal is essential for safe and eco-friendly disposal.
How do I get rid of a lawn mower?
Electric mowers can be brought straight to a household electrical recycling center. There are pretty much only two big conditions to consider when talking about getting rid of lawn mowers: either the lawn mower is still operational, or it’s broken. The way that you get rid of a lawn mower really depends on this factor.
How do you recycle a lawn mower?
To recycle, drain all fluids from the mower and dispose of them as household hazardous waste. Remove all non-metal pieces of the mower so you can recycle the scrap metal, and bring it to a recycling facility. Alternatively, you can donate the mower if it still works, sell it online, give it away, or call a junk removal service if it’s broken.
What can I do with a used lawn mower?
Look for local charities, community organizations, or individuals who might be interested in receiving a used lawn mower. Websites, social media platforms, and community bulletin boards can be helpful resources. Check out our guide on how to donate houseware and furniture here. If the mower is in decent condition, you could consider selling it.
How do you remove a lawn mower from a truck?
Junk removal services have a minimum amount of truck space that items need to fill. If you don’t fill the space, there may be extra charges. “For a lawn mower, it’s fairly straightforward to remove the outer pieces. Just look to the corners or sides to find the fasteners, use a screwdriver or wrench, and remove the screws.
How do you scrap a lawn mower?
Here is a video guide for scrapping a lawn mower. After disassembling the mower, collect all the metals and separate them from the plastics. Carry them to a scrap metal dealer near your location and sell them. They will pay depending on whether the parts are ferrous or non-ferrous.