How to Dispose of a TV: All the Ways

When it’s time for that prehistoric tube TV or dusty plasma screen to go to pasture, you have options. The main methods for getting rid of a TV are removal services, recycling, or donating. Throwing away or scrapping a TV might be possible in your area, but it isn’t recommended for many reasons. The toughest steps are determining which options are available locally, then finding the time to take care of it.

No matter if you choose professional hauling or a DIY approach, here’s what our junk removal experts think you should know about the top-recommended and least-recommended methods of television disposal.

1. TV Haul-Away Services for Functional or Broken TVs

If you want to skip heavy research, loading, and driving, work with a local junk removal specialist. The Junkluggers’ local teams have hauled countless TVs across hundreds of zip codes. We offer the path of least resistance, fully handling pickup, e-waste recycling, and TV donations with an eco-friendly focus.

While our old TV removal service isn’t free of charge, it is free of complication and stress. We also include a free estimate up front, so you can approve the cost before you opt into services. TV removal cost can be as little as $99 (depending on location), and it can be combined with other junk removal for a more efficient deal. Find the nearest location if this option sounds best to you.

2. Television Recycling for Broken or Old TVs

Can you recycle TVs locally? Most likely! Recycling is the best answer to what to do with a broken TV. But you can’t just put them in a bin for your regular recycling service to pick up. Instead, an official e-waste recycler will be involved.

Here’s how to recycle a TV:

1. Find a TV recycler: To find out where to recycle old TVs, start by checking your city or county waste management website and your state’s electronics recycling directory. If nothing comes up, search locally for an e-waste recycler like The Junkluggers. The retailer that originally sold you your TV may offer this service. Once you’ve found a provider, confirm that they accept your TV size and type.
2. Match your method to the type of television: Different TVs require different handling, especially older models. Use the guidance below to choose the safest route.

• How to recycle a CRT TV, aka tube TV: CRT TVs contain leaded glass, so they should go to a qualified electronics recycler, municipal e-waste event, or manufacturer take-back program rather than the curb or landfill. Keep the screen intact, carry it upright when possible, and call ahead; some recyclers charge an extra fee for CRT TV disposal.
• How to recycle a plasma TV: Plasma TVs are usually accepted by electronics recyclers and some retailer drop-off/haul-away programs, but there may be size limits. Check screen size requirements and confirm fees before choosing an option. Then prepare the plasma TV by removing cords and accessories.
• How to recycle an LDC or LED TV: These newer TVs are typically accepted by e-waste recyclers, retailer recycling programs, and some municipal electronics collection events. Just like older TVs, they should not go in curbside recycling or regular trash. Remove cords, stands, and accessories if required, and check whether the recycler has screen-size limits or fees.

3. Load and transport safely. When you recycle a broken television, you may be dealing with a cracked screen or loose components. Tape loose seams and small pieces to keep them in place. Wear gloves with good grip. Wrap the television in a thick blanket or cardboard to protect the glass. Load the TV into a vehicle in an upright position, flat against a stable surface so it cannot slide around.

If the television is too heavy, too large, or too inconvenient to transport yourself, schedule TV recycling pickup with a junk removal company or your chosen recycler. This is often the easiest option for oversized flat screens and heavy CRTs, and it’s also the safest because you won’t be handling breakable components.

3. TV Donation for Working TVs

Donation is the best alternative to throwing away a working TV, as it keeps it out of the waste stream. The primary challenges are determining where to donate a TV and how to prepare it for donation.

The best place to donate depends on the TV’s age and condition. Working flat-screen TVs are the easiest to donate. Older tube TVs, projectors, or any damaged TVs are often rejected and should go to an e-waste recycler instead.

Keep in mind: If you choose a professional junk hauling service like The Junkluggers, all these donation logistics will be handled for you. Skip the hassle by booking today.

Where can I donate a TV?

The list of who accepts old TVs differs in each community. To donate television to charity, start by contacting non-profit resale shops, shelters, community centers, schools, and local organizations that support veterans or other groups. Small local businesses may be interested too. Most donation centers only want TVs they can resell or reuse. Ask them whether they will accept your screen size, TV type, and model age.

Does Goodwill take working TVs? Some Goodwill locations accept functional flat-screen TVs, but policies vary by region. Most locations refuse tube TVs, broken TVs, or very large televisions. Call your local donation center to find out more.

Does Salvation Army take televisions? The Salvation Army says accepted donations can vary by location, and its thrift store guidance commonly excludes large console TVs and televisions that are older than five years. Contact your local branch to confirm.

How do I get the TV ready to donate?

Before you donate television equipment, make sure it powers on, the inputs work, components look intact, and the accessories (remote, stand, cords, manual, etc.) are included if you have them.

While not required, it may be appreciated if you clean the screen, remove dust from the vents, and label the TV as “working.”

If you discover during your inspection that the TV is actually not in good condition, take it to an electronics recycler, municipal e-waste event, transfer station, or professional junk removal service instead.

4. Scrapping a TV (Not Recommended)

Can you scrap TVs? No, it probably won’t be a viable option in your location. Most scrap yards will not accept televisions because electronics don’t contain enough valuable metals or components, and because certifications are required for handling hazardous waste.

What’s Hazardous Substances Are Inside of TVs?

These tube TV and early flat screen TV substances are considered hazardous:

• Mercury – found in LCD screens prior to 2009
• Lead – used in solder or glass
• Cadmium and arsenic – used in circuit boards and more
• Barium and strontium – used in tube TV glass
• Other chemical compounds that may off-gas or turn to dust

Certified e-waste recyclers are like specialized TV scrappers with a more official title, and they know how to handle these devices safely and responsibly. Choose them instead.

5. Throwing Away a TV (Not Recommended)

If you are considering the “trash it” approach to TV disposal, please reconsider. The answers to these frequently asked questions explain why:

Can you throw a TV in a dumpster? Usually, no. Most dumpsters are meant for general household trash, construction materials, or commercial debris. Televisions are typically not allowed because they are bulky and often hazardous. The dumpster provider or property owner may confirm this. Regardless, a designated e-waste service is better than a dumpster.

Can you throw a TV in the trash? It depends on state and local rules, but usually the answer is no. About half of US states have banned disposing of TVs and other electronics in curbside trash. Many local waste management services do not pick up TVs, and even if they do, recycling is the more environmentally friendly choice.

Where can I dump a TV? Dumping a TV in a ditch or random location is illegal. The legal alternatives are e-waste recycling or professional junk hauling.

Safety first: Never break open a tube TV, remove the glass, or toss unusable pieces in the trash. It’s dangerous for both you and the environment.

Get Help with Disposing of Old Televisions

If getting rid of a TV is proving to be more complicated than you expected, you’re not alone in that assessment. Professional help simplifies everything. Count on The Junkluggers near you to determine what to do with your old TV and take care of it. If the TV works, we’ll donate it for you and provide you with a receipt. If it doesn’t function, we’ll recycle it properly so you can feel good about minimizing your environmental impact.

Our Green Guarantees ensure your satisfaction with our exceptional customer service, free estimate, and hassle-free approach. Ready to get started? Book online or call ${phones} today.