When a household refrigerator completely breaks down or requires replacement with a more modern model, the owner inevitably faces the question of disposing of bulky equipment. Many people do not know that throwing old refrigerator into a landfill is not only environmentally harmful, but also economically inexpedient, since valuable resources are hidden inside the case. Understanding what kind of metal is in the unit allows you to properly prepare it and profitably hand it over to recycling collection points.
The internal structure of the refrigeration chamber is a complex design made of various alloys and elements, each of which has its own market value. The type and purity of the scrap determines the final amount you will receive upon delivery, so pre-sorting becomes a critical procedure. In this article we will analyze in detail metal composition domestic refrigerators of different years of production.
In addition, knowledge of the design is necessary not only for sale, but also for safe disassembly, since some components require special handling. We will look at where to look for non-ferrous metals, how to distinguish them from ferrous scrap, and what precautions should be taken during the dismantling process. This will help you avoid injuries and maximize profits from equipment delivery.
Main types of metals in the design of a refrigerator
The bulk of any household refrigerator is ferrous metal, which is presented in the form of sheet steel. The outer body, inner walls of the chambers (in most classic models) and door panels are made from this material. Steel is distinguished by magnetic properties, which makes it easy to identify it using a conventional magnet, and has a relatively low cost when scrapped compared to non-ferrous alloys.
However, the real value for deliverers is non-ferrous metalwhich is used in heat exchange systems and electrical components. Copper and aluminum form the basis of evaporators and condensers, providing efficient heat exchange. It is these elements that give the refrigerator liquidity in the eyes of receivers, since the price of copper and aluminum is significantly higher than that of steel or cast iron.
Various alloys and coatings are also present in the design. For example, door handles, decorative trims or fasteners can be made of zinc alloys or brass. The internal lining of some modern models can be made of ABS plastic, which is not metal and requires separate disposal, but the frame always remains metal.
⚠️ Attention: When disassembling, be extremely careful with the heat-insulating layer. Older models may contain asbestos or harmful gases, so work should only be carried out in a well-ventilated area and wearing personal protective equipment.
Where to look for copper: the most valuable resource
Copper is the “king” of recyclable materials in refrigeration equipment, and it is for the sake of it that the unit is most often deeply disassembled. The main deposit of this metal inside the device is the compressor system of tubes connecting the nodes. In old Soviet models, such as ZIL or Saratov, the amount of copper can reach several kilograms, since then they did not save on materials.
The pipelines going from the compressor to the radiator grille on the rear wall are also made of copper. They have a characteristic reddish-red color and high plasticity. If your refrigerator is more than 15-20 years old, the probability that pure copper was used there and not its substitutes tends to 100%. In modern models, manufacturers often replace some of the copper tubes with aluminum ones to reduce costs.
The compressor itself is a sealed block, inside of which there is an electric motor with a copper wire winding. Removing this copper requires opening the compressor housing, a labor-intensive and dangerous process that requires special tools. Often compressors are sold entirely as complex scrap, but the price per kilogram of a “copper motor” is always higher than for ordinary steel.
How much copper can be obtained from one refrigerator?
On average, from one standard two-chamber refrigerator you can get from 1.5 to 3 kg of pure copper, if completely disassembled, including the winding of the compressor motor. The tubes contain about 0.5-1 kg.
It is important to distinguish copper from tinned copper, which has a silvery tint, but hides the same valuable metal under the coating layer. When handing over scrap, collection points may classify them differently, so it is better to immediately clarify the conditions. Pure, unpainted copper without solder or insulation is most valuable.
Aluminum elements and their identification
Aluminum is the second most important non-ferrous metal, which is widely used in the production of refrigerators. Its main application is radiator grilles (condensers) and evaporators inside the freezer. Unlike copper, aluminum is not magnetic, it is much lighter and has a matte silver-gray color. In modern models, it is aluminum that often replaces copper in the cooling circuits.
The evaporator, which is located inside the freezer (often looks like a plate on the back wall or a coil), is in most cases made of aluminum. This metal easily corrodes when in contact with aggressive environments, but when dry inside the chamber it lasts a long time. When disassembling, it is important not to mix aluminum with other metals, as this will reduce the total cost of the scrap batch.
In addition to heat exchangers, the following can be made from aluminum:
- 🔹 Internal shelves and drawers in some premium models.
- 🔹 Decorative door frames and edging.
- 🔹 Fasteners and brackets for the compressor.
When handing over aluminum, it is important to remove all non-metallic inclusions from it: rubber gaskets, plastic plugs and insulation residues. Pure aluminum ("aluminum profile" or "mix") is accepted at higher prices. If you hand over radiators along with stuck-on steel or copper, the receiver may classify the entire volume as “junk aluminum” or reduce the price.
Steel body and black scrap
The vast majority of the weight of the refrigerator is sheet steel, which belongs to the category ferrous scrap. The outer casing, doors, bottom and top are all 0.5 to 1mm thick steel, often coated with enamel or a polymer layer to protect against corrosion and improve appearance. Despite the low cost per kilogram, the large weight makes the delivery of the case economically justified.
Inside the case there are also many steel elements: frame for shelves, guides, door hinges and fasteners. All these parts are magnetic and have a characteristic metallic ringing sound. In preparation for delivery, the case is often flattened for ease of transportation, however, receiving points may require maintaining the dimensions or, conversely, cutting to certain sizes.
Stainless steel is worth special mention, which can be found in higher-class refrigerators or in design elements. Stainless steel does not rust, has a specific shine and, as a rule, is weakly magnetic (or not magnetic at all, depending on the grade of the alloy). Its cost is higher than that of ordinary black steel, so it is better to sort such elements separately.
To classify ferrous metal in the refrigerator, you can use the following table:
| Element | Metal type | Magnetic | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| External housing | Sheet steel | Yes | Enameled, heavy weight |
| Internal chamber | Sheet steel | Yes | White enamel coating |
| Hinges and fasteners | Steel/Alloy | Yes | High strength |
| Decoration (handles) | Stainless steel/Plastic | Weak/No | Depends on the model |
Compressor: source of copper and complex scrap
The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator and the heaviest individual unit after the body. In terms of scrap metal, it is a complex unit consisting of a sealed steel housing, copper motor windings, copper tubes and steel plates. Depending on the policy of the receiving point, it can be handed over entirely as an “electric motor” or disassembled to obtain non-ferrous metals.
Inside the black compressor casing there is an electric motor, the stator of which is wound with copper wire. The amount of copper there can be from 0.5 to 1.5 kg, depending on the power and year of manufacture. However, extracting this copper requires opening the case, which is difficult and dangerous at home due to residual pressure and oil.
When handing over the entire compressor, it is important to drain the technical oil from it, since it is waste and can reduce the scrap value or lead to refusal of acceptance. The oil must be drained into a separate container and handed over to special waste oil collection points; pouring it into the sewer or onto the ground is strictly prohibited.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to cut the compressor housing with a grinder unless you have first drilled holes to relieve pressure and drained the oil. Residual refrigerant and oil vapor may ignite upon contact with a spark.
Preparation and safety during disassembly
The process of disassembling a refrigerator for the sake of metal requires compliance with strict safety rules. The first step should always be to unplug the unit and wait a few hours for the coolant and oil to cool and stabilize. To work, you will need gloves, safety glasses and a respirator, since dust and possible insulation residues can be harmful to health.
To dismantle the units you will need a set of tools:
- 🔹 Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat) for removing panels.
- 🔹 Wire cutters or side cutters for cutting wires and tubes.
- 🔹 A hacksaw or grinder (with caution).
- 🔹 Pliers and wrenches.
Particular attention should be paid to the cooling system. Old refrigerators may use refrigerants that, if released into the atmosphere, are harmful to the environment, although they are not explosive in small quantities. Modern freons also require careful handling. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to hand over the entire refrigerator to a specialized organization that has a disposal license.
☑️ Checklist before starting disassembly
After dismantling, the metals should be sorted: copper separately, aluminum separately, ferrous metal separately. Such sorting will allow you to get significantly more money for scrap than when handing over a “mix”. Plastic parts, rubber seals and glass also need to be separated, since they are garbage for metal collection points.
Economic feasibility and disposal
Is the game worth the candle? If we consider an old refrigerator solely as a source of income from the sale of metal, then the profit will depend on the current scrap prices and the amount of non-ferrous metals. For one refrigerator you can get an amount equivalent to the cost of a new budget kettle or several kilograms of food, but the main benefit is freeing up space and environmental responsibility.
There are public and private recycling programs that allow you to return your old refrigerator for free or even get a discount on the purchase of new equipment. As part of such programs, equipment is professionally dismantled, hazardous substances are neutralized, and metals are sent for smelting. This is often a more convenient option than disassembling the refrigerator yourself.
However, if you have a garage, tools and desire, disassembling the refrigerator yourself can be an interesting experience and a way to supplement the family budget a little. The main thing is to remember safety and not neglect sorting. Valuable resources, such as copper and aluminum, should not be wasted in landfills, contaminating the soil with heavy metals.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Approximately how much does an old refrigerator weigh?
The weight of a standard two-chamber refrigerator of Soviet or early post-Soviet production varies from 60 to 80 kg. Modern models can weigh less (40-50 kg) due to the use of thinner metal and plastic elements, but American models can reach 100 kg or more.
Is it possible to hand over a refrigerator with freon?
You cannot hand over a refrigerator with freon to a regular collection point for ferrous metal. Freon must be pumped out by specialists. However, many large collection points and recycling services accept the entire appliance, as they have equipment for the safe extraction of refrigerant.
Is there gold or silver in the refrigerator?
Precious metals (gold, silver) are practically not used in household refrigerators. They can be found in microscopic quantities in the contacts of electronics of modern models with displays and complex controls, but their extraction is not economically feasible at home.
What to do with plastic parts after disassembly?
Plastic (polystyrene, ABS) should be separated from the metal. It can be taken to specialized plastic collection points, if such collection is established in your city, or disposed of as solid household waste, having previously been crushed to reduce the volume.
Does the year of manufacture affect the amount of copper?
Yes, directly. In refrigerators manufactured before the 1990s, the amount of copper is much larger (pipes, windings). In modern models (after the 2000s), manufacturers are actively replacing copper with aluminum and steel, and also reducing the weight of motor windings, using more efficient but less metal-intensive technologies.