Scrap Appliances Explained: Value, Costs, and 8 Common Myths

Have an old refrigerator in the house that’s taking up space? Perhaps a washing machine that broke down a number of years ago or the air conditioning unit that is finally getting changed.

Don’t throw it into the trash barrel yet; check it out first.

Old appliances are made of materials like steel, copper and aluminium. This means they still can have a scrap value if they aren’t operating. The amount you will receive in the UAE is dependent on the appliance, its weight, the materials that are contained in the appliance and the current scrap price.

Open Today Aluminium & Copper Trading is an importer of various scrapped appliances throughout the UAE and can even come to collect the items from your premises.

So, what is the value of old scrap appliances? And are all those things you’ve heard about appliance scrapping true?

Let’s clear it up. 

How Much Are Scrap Appliances Worth in the UAE?

There isn’t one fixed price for every appliance.

A large AC unit containing plenty of copper and aluminium will usually be worth more than a small microwave. A heavy washing machine may also bring a reasonable return because of its steel body, motor, and other metal components.

Based on the supplied UAE market estimates, common scrap appliances may have values around:

These are estimates rather than guaranteed buying prices. Actual offering is subject to change based on condition, weight, metal content, quantity and prevailing market rates.

The reason is that an AC with valuable copper parts is worth a lot more than an appliance that has mostly steel and plastic in it. 

Why Do Old Appliances Have Value?

The value of an appliance can be experienced without it having to function. Just because a machine is nearing the end of its useful life, doesn’t mean that the parts making up that machine can’t be recovered.

A refrigerator could include: 

• Steel casing
• Copper tubing
• A compressor
• Electrical wiring
• Aluminium components

The steel, copper wiring, electric motor and other recyclable components can be found in a washing machine.

This is why removing old appliances doesn’t always indicate compensation for someone to collect them. You can also sell it as scrap appliances if the object doesn’t have a specific value. 

8 Common Myths About Scrap Appliances

There’s plenty of confusion around appliance scrapping. Here are eight myths worth clearing up.

Myth 1: Every Scrap Yard Pays the Same

Not true.

Scrap appliances prices can change from one buyer to another. The offer may be subject to market conditions, processing costs, quality of metal and buyer’s current demand.

It pays to obtain an estimate prior to handing over valuable equipment. 

Myth 2: A Broken Refrigerator Is Worthless

Even with a broken refrigerator, there are steel and copper or other recyclable materials that can be found.

But due to its contents of refrigerant and other parts there should be proper handling of the refrigeration equipment. Avoid attempting to break or penetrate the cooling system. 

Myth 3: Do Scrap Appliances Yards Take Refrigerators?

Yes, many scrap buyers will take refrigerators to their refrigerator scrap yard; however, they may have different collection and preparation processes.

When you are looking for a refrigerator’s or appliance junk yard, you need to ask the buyer if they will take your specific refrigerator model and if they will pick up as well. 

Open Today Aluminium & Copper Trading handles AC units and other appliance scrap and offers collection services across the UAE. 

Myth 4: You Need to Take Everything Apart Yourself

Not necessarily.

Some people start dismantling an appliance because they think every individual component will bring more money. Disassembling bulky items like appliances may take a long time, and can even be hazardous.

Especially for refrigerators and air conditioning units, components can become damaged and refrigerants can be released if they are not disassembled properly. 

Sometimes, it is advisable to let the skilled scrap buyer inspect the appliance first.

Myth 5: Modern Appliances Have No Scrap Value

While some older appliances may not have as much plastic as modern appliances, it doesn’t mean they aren’t worth something.

They can still contain:

• Steel frames
• Copper wiring
• Electric motors
• Aluminium
• Compressors
• Circuit boards

The exact value depends on what’s inside the appliance.

Myth 6: Only Businesses Can Sell Scrap Appliances

You don’t need to own a factory or run a workshop.

Homeowners can also sell unwanted appliances. Businesses simply tend to have larger quantities because they regularly replace equipment.

Open Today Aluminium & Copper Trading works with both households and businesses across the UAE. 

Myth 7: You Can Leave Old Appliances Anywhere

This is one myth you don’t want to follow.

In particular, Abu Dhabi City Municipality has encouraged people to recycle huge waste items such as household appliances via authorised disposal channels instead of where they are not allowed to be thrown.

If you need to get rid of an old appliance, make sure to schedule the pickup rather than leave it next to a municipal bin or at the curb. 

Myth 8: Every Part of an Appliance Gets Recycled

Not necessarily.

In most cases, the metallic parts are the most valuable parts in the scrap appliances, and some plastics, insulation, rubber and other parts might need to be separated.

The aim is to recover as much material as possible which can be used in new products rather than assuming that 100% of the material is new product. 

Do Scrap Yards Take Freezers?

Yes, you can sell a freezer to a scrap buyer; however, there may be some different methods.

Materials like steel, copper, wires and refrigerator components are just a few of those found in freezers. 

If you’re wondering do scrap yards take freezers, contact the buyer before moving the appliance. A professional collector can tell you whether they accept it and arrange collection if available.

Don’t cut refrigerant lines or attempt to release the refrigerant yourself.

What About Old AC Units?

AC units can be among the more valuable scrap appliances because they may contain copper tubing, aluminium fins, compressors, and other metal components.

The value depends heavily on the type and size of the unit.

Open Today Aluminium & Copper Trading handles AC scrap appliances, including copper coils, compressors, and aluminium fins, and provides collection and assessment services across the UAE.

Because AC systems can contain refrigerants, proper handling matters. UAE rules also regulate the handling and dispose of old appliances such as certain refrigerants and equipment containing them.

How to Get More Value From Your Old Appliances

You don’t need to turn your garage into a dismantling workshop. A few simple steps can make the process easier.

Keep Appliances Together

If you’re clearing several items, don’t throw away individual appliances separately. Group them together and ask for a bulk quote.

Don’t Mix Valuable Scrap Appliances With General Waste

Keep copper cables, aluminium parts, brass fittings, and other valuable metals separate where practical.

Don’t Destroy the Appliance

Breaking an appliance apart without knowing what’s inside can cause more trouble than it’s worth.

Ask for an On-Site Assessment

A scrap buyer can look at the appliance, identify the valuable materials, and give you a price based on the actual item.

How Open Today Buys Scrap Appliances

The process is straightforward.

1. Call or WhatsApp

Tell the team what appliances you have and where they’re located.

2. On-Site Survey

Open Today Aluminium & Copper Trading assesses the scrap appliances at your location and provides a price. (Open Today)

3. Agree on the Price

Once you accept the offer, the collection can be arranged.

4. Get Paid

The company offers instant payment as part of its scrap-buying process.

They buy appliances and other scrap appliances materials from homes, shops, workshops, and businesses across the UAE.

What Other Scrap Can You Sell?

If you’re already clearing out an old appliance, check whether you have other recyclable materials sitting around.

Open Today also deals in:

• Copper
• Aluminium
• Brass
• Batteries
• AC units
• Fridges
• Washing machines
• Electrical cables
• E-scrap
• General scrap metal

Selling several categories together can make a collection more worthwhile.

To Conclude

When an old appliance doesn’t work, that doesn’t mean it’s of no value anymore. The value of its scrap appliances is derived from the contents within, particularly metals like copper, aluminium and steel. What remains to be seen is the amount of these valuable materials (and their value on the market today) that an appliance has in it.

When replacing your refrigerator, washing machine, AC, freezer or any other large appliance, do not just dump it out or just throw it in the general trash. 

Get it assessed first. You may be able to turn something taking up valuable space into cash while also making sure the appliance is handled responsibly.

For homeowners and businesses looking for a Scrap Buyer UAE, Open Today Aluminium & Copper Trading offers on-site assessment and pickup services across the UAE.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the price of 1 kg scrap copper in the UAE today?

Scrap prices of copper range depending on market conditions and grade. The vague range of buying rates in UAE for 2026 is approximately between AED 25 and AED 40 per kg for high quality copper; and insulated cable may be much lower.

How much is 1kg of scrap?

The price for the scrap per kg is not fixed. This varies depending on the metal. This rate (or speed) varies depending on the material, such as copper, brass, aluminium or steel, as well as its grade and cleanliness.

Is VAT applicable on scrap sales in the UAE?

VAT treatment is dependent on both the nature of the transaction and who the parties are. There are the special regulations regarding metal scrap appliances in UAE, such as the reverse-charge system that came into force through Cabinet Decision No.153 of 2025. For individual sales, it would be advisable for business to verify the relevant VAT treatment with the FTA or a tax expert.

How much is 20kg of iron worth?

The price is based on the latest price for Iron/Steel scrap. The price of 20kg of the different grades of iron and steel can vary a great deal.