There has been a change in the law about how you can dispose of old Fridges/Freezers.

From 1st January 2002 all ozone-depleting substances (ODS), including CFC’s, must be removed from refrigeration equipment before it is scrapped or recycled. This includes the ODS in the cooling system of your appliance and the insulating foam inside the walls and door. Therefore it is the County Council’s responsibility to ensure these fridges are disposed of in the correct manner. Fridges and freezers will now be dealt with in a special processing facility and will cost the County Council around £40.00 per unit.

If you need to dispose of an old fridge or freezer you can:

• Ask your retailer if they can take it away.

• Take your old appliance to a recycling centre.

• Arrange a collection by South Hams District Council.
  South Hams District Council can collect these domestic white goods from your property.  This is a chargeable service.

• Contact ReFurnish to arrange a free collection.
  ReFurnish are a local not for profit organisation that may collect appliances that are still working, they will then recondition the appliance and sell it to people on low incomes at an affordable price.

Whichever disposal option you choose please make sure that the fridge/freezer is emptied of all food and cleaned.

Please remember that fly-tipping is illegal and dumped fridges and freezers pose a real threat to the environment.  Failure to dispose of your appliance in a safe manner could result in a £2,500 fine, plus costs.