Recycling a lawn mower is a responsible way to dispose of an unwanted piece of equipment that is either broken or no longer needed. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to recycle your lawn mower, potentially helping the environment and maybe even getting some cash back.
Step 1: Drain All Liquids
Before recycling any motorized equipment, you need to drain all the fluids to prevent environmental contamination.
- Gasoline: Use a siphon pump to drain the tank into a gas can. This gasoline could be used in another piece of equipment, or taken to a hazardous waste disposal facility.
- Oil: Remove the oil plug beneath the mower and drain the oil into a pan. Recycle the oil at an auto shop or hazardous waste facility.
Step 2: Disassemble the Lawn Mower
Some parts of the lawn mower may be recyclable or reusable, whereas others are not.
- Remove any plastic parts that can be recycled as plastic, such as the wheels and grass catchers.
- Detach metal parts, which can be taken to a scrap metal recycler.
- Remove any batteries for separate recycling, if you have a battery-powered mower.
Step 3: Locate a Recycling Facility
Begin by searching for a local recycling facility that accepts lawn mowers.
- Scrappers: Find a local scrapper or metal recycling facility that will accept the metal parts of the lawn mower.
- Municipal Programs: Some towns or cities have recycling programs that accept large items like lawn mowers.
- Take-Back Programs: Some manufacturers or dealerships might offer recycling programs for old equipment.
Step 4: Transport the Lawn Mower
Once you have found a suitable place for recycling, you’ll need to get your lawn mower there.
- If the recycling center is nearby and you have a vehicle capable of transporting the mower, you can take it there yourself.
- For heavier items or lack of transport, some recycling centers offer pick-up services, sometimes for a fee.
Step 5: Hand Over the Lawn Mower
Bring the lawn mower and any separated parts to the recycling center. Ensure that you follow any specific instructions provided by the facility for the drop-off.
Additional Options
If your lawn mower is still in working condition, consider the following options before recycling:
- Sell It: List your working mower on a classifieds site for someone who might need it.
- Donate It: Non-profits or community organizations might benefit from a working lawn mower.
- Repurpose It: Some DIY enthusiasts might use parts of an old mower for projects.
Things to Remember
When disposing of a lawn mower:
- Never dispose of a lawn mower with the trash, as it contains hazardous materials.
- Check local regulations regarding disposal of motorized equipment.
- Remove all personal information like name tags or labels if previously used for a lawn care business.
By recycling or properly disposing of your lawn mower, you’re not only keeping harmful materials out of landfills but also ensuring the valuable metals are recovered and reused in new products.