How to Dispose of a Fridge in Dorset
Information verified January 2025
Fridge Disposal in Dorset — WEEE Compliance
Fridges and freezers contain refrigerant gases (CFCs or HFCs) that damage the ozone layer and contribute to climate change. They're classified as WEEE and must be recycled at specialist facilities.
Your Options
Retailer Take-Back (Free)
If you're buying a new fridge, the retailer must take your old one. Currys, AO.com, and John Lewis all offer this. Usually arranged at point of sale.
Council Bulky Waste
BCP: £37.50, 2–3 week wait. Dorset Council: £30, up to 4 weeks. Both require you to move the fridge to the kerbside — that's 50-80kg to carry yourself.
Recycling Centre
All Dorset recycling centres accept fridges in the WEEE bay. You'll need a way to transport it — fridges don't fit in most cars.
TipRun (from £60)
Same-day collection from your kitchen. We unplug it, carry it out, and take it to a WEEE-compliant recycling centre. Defrost the night before if possible.
Fridge to get rid of?
TipRun collects from your kitchen, WEEE recycled. From £60.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put a fridge in a skip?
No — fridges are WEEE items containing refrigerant gas. They must go to specialist WEEE recycling. Skip companies won't accept them.
Do I need to defrost my fridge before disposal?
Ideally yes — defrost the night before. But collection services (including TipRun) will take it either way.
Is fridge disposal free anywhere?
Retailer take-back is free when buying a new fridge. Recycling centres are free but you need to transport it. Council collection costs £30–37.50.