How to get rid of an old fridge or freezer in Metro Vancouver

An old fridge can't go out with the garbage, and you shouldn't pay much, if anything, to get rid of it. In Metro Vancouver there are three free routes: a free drop-off site, the store that sells you the new one, or a free pickup from your home. Here's how each one works and which suits whom.

Why a fridge can't go in the garbage

Two reasons. First, metal household appliances are on Metro Vancouver's list of product stewardship materials: they have their own recycling program, so they're banned from garbage loads, and a load containing one is surcharged (Metro Vancouver Disposal Ban Program Manual, checked 21 September 2026).

Second, most fridges and freezers contain refrigerants, a group of chemicals called ozone-depleting substances. Recycling the appliance properly means those chemicals are handled and disposed of by licensed professionals (Major Appliance Recycling Roundtable, checked 5 October 2026).

Option 1: Free pickup from your home

We pick up fridges, freezers, washers, dryers, stoves and dishwashers for free across Metro Vancouver, in any condition. There's nothing to pay, working or not. Our crew carries it out and loads it, so you don't have to get it to the curb, and fridges and freezers go to refrigerant-compliant recycling.

Best for: anyone without a truck, anyone in a condo, and anyone who doesn't want to move a heavy appliance down the stairs. See free appliance pickup.

Option 2: Drop it at a free collection site

BC's Major Appliance Recycling Roundtable (MARR) runs collection sites across the province, and there's no charge to drop off an appliance at one. The program covers full-size and compact fridges, freezers, window and portable air conditioners, dehumidifiers, washers, dryers, dishwashers, ranges, built-in ovens, range hoods, built-in microwaves, food waste disposers, trash compactors and water coolers. Use the locator on the MARR website to find the nearest site (checked 5 October 2026).

Best for: anyone with a truck or trailer and two people to lift.

Option 3: The store that sells you the new one

Many appliance retailers offer to take the old unit when they deliver the new one, sometimes for a fee. Ask before you buy; if you're replacing it anyway, it's often the easiest option.

Option 4: Your city's large-item pickup

Some cities collect a few large items a year from the curb, but each program has its own list of what it takes. Check your city's rules in our guide to dump fees and large-item pickup before you put a fridge out.

Before it goes

• Empty it and take out loose shelves and drawers, so nothing slides around when it's tipped.
• Unplug a freezer the day before so it can defrost, and put towels down for the meltwater.
• Tape the doors shut, or take them off if a child could get in. An empty fridge with a working latch is a hazard.

Which option fits

• You have a truck and two people: a free MARR collection site.
• You're buying a new one: ask the retailer to take the old one.
• No truck, a condo, or an appliance in the basement: a free pickup from your home.
• A whole kitchen at once (fridge, stove, dishwasher): a free pickup, so everything goes in one trip.

Common questions

Can I put a fridge out with my garbage?

No. Metal household appliances are banned from garbage loads in Metro Vancouver because they have their own recycling program.

Is the pickup really free?

Yes. Appliance pickup is free across Metro Vancouver, in any condition. If you have other junk going at the same time, that part is priced as usual on our pricing page.

Do you take freezers and bar fridges too?

Yes, any size. We also take washers, dryers, stoves and dishwashers for free.

Book a free appliance pickup at 604-348-7640 or request a pickup online.

Sources: Metro Vancouver Disposal Ban Program Manual and the Major Appliance Recycling Roundtable, checked 5 October 2026.