Picture this: you’re moving into a new place and need to get rid of some of your belongings. You show up to the local junkyard with miscellaneous items, including oil, car batteries, and a refrigerator that still has the freon in it. The junkyard people hate you, and you’ve been banned.

Trying to get into scrap metal recycling next year? Be sure to know what to bring before you head to the junkyard. In our new blog, we took a look at some of the top items that can’t be recycled at a scrap yard. Read more below!

Can I Bring Hazardous Materials?

Hazardous materials are not accepted because they pose significant safety risks to our employees and can contaminate the entire batch of recyclable metal. Items that contain dangerous substances require specialized handling and disposal procedures that scrap yards are not equipped for. This category includes materials like asbestos, mercury, and any containers that once held flammable liquids or toxic chemicals. Always check local guidelines for the proper disposal of hazardous waste to protect both the environment and community health.

Can I Bring Electronics That Have Fluids?

You cannot bring most electronics or any appliances that still contain fluids because they contain components and substances that interfere with the scrap metal recycling process. While items like refrigerators, air conditioners, and freezers are valuable for their metal content, they must have all hazardous fluids, such as freon, drained by a certified technician before we can accept them. Similarly, electronics like TVs and computer monitors contain hazardous materials like lead and mercury and need to be taken to specialized e-waste recycling centers.

Can I bring Metal and Non-Metal Items?

Items with both metal and non-metal parts can often be recycled, but they may need some preparation first. For example, a metal chair with a fabric cushion would be accepted if the fabric is removed, leaving only the metal frame. The goal of scrap metal recycling is to process pure metal, and excessive non-metal attachments can contaminate the load. Taking the time to separate materials at home can increase the value of your scrap and ensure more of it can be successfully recycled.

What Other Items Can You Not Bring to Recycling Facility?

Yes, there are several other common items that scrap yards cannot accept. These often include things that people mistakenly assume are recyclable because they contain some metal. A few examples to be aware of include:

• Radioactive Materials: Any item containing radioactive substances, such as certain types of smoke detectors or medical equipment, is strictly prohibited due to safety risks.
• Pressurized Tanks: Propane tanks, fire extinguishers, and other sealed canisters cannot be accepted unless they are cut in half and proven to be empty, as they pose an explosion risk.
• Tires and Glass: While these materials are recyclable through other programs, they cannot be processed at a metal recycling facility.

Ready to Recycle Your Scrap Metal? Come to Second Street Iron & Metal Today!

At Second Street Iron & Metal, we are committed to making scrap metal recycling as straightforward as possible for the Salem community. Our team is always here to answer your questions and help you understand which materials we can accept. By sorting your items correctly, you help us operate safely and efficiently while ensuring you get the best value for your scrap. To learn more about our services or to ask about a specific item, contact Second Street Iron & Metal online or by calling us at (617) 387-1188 today. We’ll be in touch soon.