How to get rid of refrigerators and freezers in Washington, DC

Last updated: November 3, 2026

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Quick answer

Call 311 to book a bulk pickup, take the doors off the fridge, and set it out between 6:30 p.m. the night before and 6 a.m.

✓ Last verified: 2026-11-03

Curbside: Yes, by appointment, for homes with DPW trash service (single-family homes and buildings with 3 or fewer units).
How to prepare: Remove the refrigerator doors. Set it where your trash goes between 6:30 p.m. the night before and 6 a.m. on the appointment day.
Cost / limits: Up to 7 bulk items per appointment.
Appointment: Yes. Call 311 or go to 311.dc.gov.
Drop-off: Fort Totten Transfer Station, 4900 John McCormack Rd. NE, Tue to Fri 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sat 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring proof of DC residency.
Tip: Fridges aren't accepted at DPW's household hazardous waste events. Use bulk pickup or Fort Totten.

Official source: dpw.dc.gov · dpw.dc.gov

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.

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)

Call 311 to book a bulk pickup, take the doors off the fridge, and set it out between 6:30 p.m. the night before and 6 a.m.

Yes, by appointment, for homes with DPW trash service (single-family homes and buildings with 3 or fewer units).

Up to 7 bulk items per appointment.

Yes. Call 311 or go to 311.dc.gov.

Fort Totten Transfer Station, 4900 John McCormack Rd. NE, Tue to Fri 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sat 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring proof of DC residency.

Fridges aren't accepted at DPW's household hazardous waste events. Use bulk pickup or Fort Totten.