Curbside GuideHow to get rid of refrigerators and freezers in Boston, MA
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Quick answer
Schedule a Freon special collection through 311, remove doors and food, and set the fridge out by 6 a.m. on your appointment day.
- Curbside Yes, by special-collection appo…
- Prep Remove every door and all food
- Cost / limits Counts toward the 10 special it…
- Appointment Yes via 311 or 617-635-4500
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- Curbside
- Yes, by special-collection appointment. Fridges and freezers contain Freon and cannot go in regular trash.
- How to prepare
- Remove every door and all food. Doors go next to the trash bin for regular collection. Item must be intact and publicly accessible.
- Cost / limits
- Counts toward the 10 special items per year / 5 per appointment limit.
- Appointment
- Yes via 311 or 617-635-4500.
- Drop-off
- Not listed as a City drop-off; schedule curbside special collection or use a private hauler/donation option.
- Tip
- Fridges with doors still attached or food inside will not be collected.
Official source: www.boston.gov
Helpful supplies
- Appliance hand truck — Designed for moving tall, heavy appliances like fridges.
- Appliance moving straps — Keeps the door shut and the unit secured while moving it.
General tips from official sources
- Federal Clean Air Act (Section 608) rules require refrigerant to be safely removed before refrigerators and freezers are disposed of. Ask any hauler or drop-off site how they handle the refrigerant. (www.epa.gov)
- ENERGY STAR has recycling information for refrigerators, freezers and other appliances. (www.energystar.gov)
FAQ
How do I get rid of a refrigerator or freezer in Boston?
Schedule a Freon special collection through 311, remove doors and food, and set the fridge out by 6 a.m. on your appointment day.
Is there curbside pickup for refrigerators and freezers in Boston?
Yes, by special-collection appointment. Fridges and freezers contain Freon and cannot go in regular trash.
How much does it cost, and are there limits?
Counts toward the 10 special items per year / 5 per appointment limit.
Do I need an appointment in Boston?
Yes via 311 or 617-635-4500.
Where can I drop off refrigerators and freezers in Boston?
Not listed as a City drop-off; schedule curbside special collection or use a private hauler/donation option.
Any other tips for getting rid of refrigerators and freezers in Boston?
Fridges with doors still attached or food inside will not be collected.