What to Do with Old TV
Got an old TV at your home? Don’t worry, because today we’ll teach you what to do with old tv sets. We’ll show you that there are much better alternatives than just throwing it away!
There might be many reasons why you might be looking for ways to get rid of old CRT television sets. Whether you’re getting a new flat-screen TV for your home or you’re planning to move soon, you need to know the right way in disposing of them.
Why You Shouldn’t Throw Your TV in the Trash
Believe it or not, incorrectly disposing of your old TV set can be illegal in the United States. In fact, there are cases in which your local garbage pickup services won’t take your TV.
The reason for this is because old electronics, not only from TVs, contain harmful chemicals that can harm you and the environment.
Toxic chemicals that come from old TV sets can pose a threat to both the environment and your health. These chemicals come because electronic devices have harmful substances such as lead, cadmium, and mercury.
Some other electronics that bring this type of toxic chemicals include:
- Computer monitors
- DVD players
- Cassette decks
- Printers
- iPods
Because of these harmful chemicals, homeowners must dispose of them correctly. By throwing your old TV to the Trash or a dumpster, it increases its chances of ending up in a junkyard. Not only will it contaminate the soil, but it can also pollute water and air as well!
Lastly, you wouldn’t want to leave your old TV in the middle of nowhere. If you do this, sooner or later, it will end up in a landfill.
What to Do with Old TV That Still Works?
Now that you know the many dangers that come when incorrectly disposing of your old electronics, it’s time to know what you CAN do with them!
Here’s what to do with old TV sets:
- Donate them to homeless shelters, schools, and senior centers.
- Sell your old TV online or with a garage sale.
- Return it to your manufacturer or retailer.
- Recycle old TV sets through recycling centers or junk hauling.
Down we’ll explain how each of these ensures that your old TV is properly disposed of.
Donate Old TVs to Homeless Shelters
When your old TV works, one of the best things you can do is to donate it! After all, homeless shelters will be giving it a much better use than having it go to waste in a landfill.
Many homeowners don’t know how to start with the donating process. We suggest to first look for organizations that’ll take gladly accept your old TV. You can even call some schools, senior centers, and libraries too!
When calling, be sure to specify your TV if it’s ten years or older. That way, you can be sure that the charity will accept it. You can take advantage of this situation and donate electronics that you no longer use as well!
Also, remember to ask if there are special requirements when donating. This will save you from a lot of trouble.
Sell It Online or By Hosting a Garage Sale
In need of extra cash? Fret not, because you can also go for Plan B: having a garage sale!
Garage sales are great when looking for an efficient way to get rid of your old TV while at the same time earning money. You’d be surprised how valuable your junk may be to other people.
Not to keen on hosting a garage sale? Luckily, you can sell your old TV online. Sites such as Craigslist and eBay work best for this type of sale. Just like a donation, check your if your TV qualifies to be sold online.
Of course, when selling your old TV, make sure that it’s in good condition and it still works. After all, nobody wants to buy something that ends up being faulty. Check if the TV’s buttons and plugs are working correctly.
Return It to Your Manufacturer or Retailer
There are many electronic companies, manufacturers, and retailers that take your old TV back. Depending on their takeback program, you can simply return it at no cost, while others will need you to pay a recycling fee.
Here are some e-Steward certified retailers that will take back your old TV set:
Be sure always to call the manufacturer to check if your TV qualifies for the takeback program.
Recycling Old TV Sets
You can recycle your old TV in two ways:
- Look for recycling centers.
- Contact your junk removal company of choice.
When opting for the first option, you can google up for recycling centers near you. In most cases, you’ll need to take the TV yourself and pay a small fee to have it recycled. However, you can find options that offer you a pickup service.
On the other hand, you can always hire an eco-friendly junk hauling company. When you hire a green junk removal company, you can enjoy many benefits. Some of these benefits include proper recycling and no involvement in harmful chemicals.
Last but not least, you can always go to a recycling program or event nearby. Usually held once a year, you can bring your TV and have it recycled for free.
Tips in How to Correctly Dispose of Your Old TV
Now that you know what to do with old TV sets, you need to know some essential tips when transporting it.
First, you’ll want to use a large vehicle when moving your TV. You don’t want your TV damaging during the moving process. Also, be sure to ask for some help from your friends when picking it up.
Lastly, when picking it up, be sure to bend your knees instead of bending over. The TV’s heavy weight can hurt your back muscles when not lifting it correctly.