Unless you are buying a new fridge as an addition to the one you already have, the chances are you will also be considering how to get rid of your existing one. The answer will depend on whether it still works or not, so we’ve put together some advice below that will help you regardless of what your situation might be.

Is your fridge still working?

If it is and you still want to get rid of it, consider selling it second hand. You can do this via your local paper or online if you wish. If you sell online be sure to specify ‘collection only’, otherwise you will run into difficulties getting it to the winning bidder.

Alternatively you can see whether someone you know could benefit from a new fridge. Ask your friends and family whether they know anyone who might appreciate one. If this doesn’t turn up any possibilities you can ask your local second hand stores whether they would like to take it off your hands.

You should only really sell or give it to another person if it was made after the year 2000. Before this point the majority of fridges used CFCs or HCFCs, both of which were harmful to the environment. If you own such a fridge it is best to dispose of it responsibly rather than passing it along to someone else.

What should you do if the fridge is no longer working?

There might still be the possibility of selling it to a second hand dealer, primarily because they may still be interested in spare parts for other appliances they have in stock. It’s worth a try, but if you don’t get any luck here you can focus on getting rid of it another way.

Some businesses that sell fridges and deliver them to your door will offer to take away the old appliance for you for an additional charge. This is normally just a few pounds and it can be well worth paying to get rid of it at the same time you take collection of your new fridge.

Alternatively councils will provide a service whereby they will come and collect your old appliances if you contact them and arrange a date for collection beforehand. Contact your local council to see if they offer this service; you may be able to find out if you look on their website.

Finally you may want to get rid of it by yourself by taking it to your local tip. Many civic amenity sites have a dedicated area for old appliances – all you have to do is get it there to dispose of it. Make sure you have room in your car with the seats down before you move the fridge outside – a quick measure up beforehand is a good idea! Lay a blanket down in the car and wipe out the fridge so you don’t have any water spilling out. If you can get help moving it so much the better – it makes disposal a lot easier to manage.