You have several good options to get rid of an old TV. The best way depends on if it works, where you live, and how much effort you want to put in.
That big, heavy box is taking up space. It might be broken or just outdated. You need it gone, but you don’t want to just throw it in the trash.
I’ve helped many friends figure this out. The rules have changed a lot over the years. It’s not as simple as it used to be.
This guide will walk you through every option. We’ll cover free ways, paid ways, and even ways to make a little money. Let’s find the best path for you.
Why You Can’t Just Throw It Away
Here’s the deal with old TVs. They are not regular trash. They contain harmful stuff inside.
Lead and mercury are in the glass of old tube TVs. Newer flat screens have other chemicals. These can leak into the ground if dumped.
Because of this, many places have laws. It is often illegal to put a TV in your home trash can. You could get a fine.
Even if your trash company takes it, it’s bad for the planet. The right way to get rid of an old TV keeps everyone safe. It’s worth the extra step.
Think of it like an old battery or paint can. It needs special handling. The good news is, it’s not hard to do.
Check If Your TV Still Works
Your first step is a simple test. Plug the TV in and turn it on. Does it show a picture? Does it make sound?
This changes everything. A working TV has value. Someone might want it, even if it’s old. A broken TV is just waste to manage.
If it works, write down the model number. You can find this on a sticker on the back. This helps you look up its specs later.
Be honest about its condition. Does it have a scratch on the screen? Are the buttons sticky? Note these things down.
Knowing if it works helps you pick your method. It decides if you can sell, donate, or must recycle. This is the key to how to get rid of an old TV the right way.
Option 1: Sell Your Old TV
Yes, you can sometimes make money. This is a great way to get rid of an old TV that still works. Even older models have fans.
Gamers like old CRT TVs for retro consoles. Artists might want one for a project. Someone might need a cheap TV for a spare room.
Take clear pictures from all angles. Show the screen on with a channel playing. Be upfront about any flaws in your description.
List it on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Price it low to move it fast. Twenty bucks is better than paying to recycle it.
Be ready for people to ask questions. will want to know the size and inputs. Meet in a public place for safety when you sell.
This method takes a bit of effort. But it puts cash in your pocket. It also gives your TV a second life, which is the best outcome.
Option 2: Donate Your Working TV
Can’t sell it? Give it away. Many charities will take a working television. This is a feel-good way to get rid of an old TV.
Call your local Goodwill or Salvation Army first. Ask if they are currently accepting TVs. Their rules can change based on space and demand.
Some places only take flat screens under a certain size. Others might take any working model. Always call ahead to save yourself a trip.
Thrift stores run by churches or community centers are another option. They often have more flexible rules. They might know someone in need who could use it.
Remember, the TV must work and be in decent shape. They won’t take a broken set. You are giving them a product they can sell to fund their work.
This option clears your space and helps others. It’s a win-win. It’s a simple, responsible answer for how to get rid of an old TV with life left in it.
Option 3: Manufacturer or Store Take-Back
Many companies that make TVs will take them back. This is called a take-back program. They recycle the parts properly.
Big brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony often have these programs. You usually have to visit their website and fill out a form. They might charge a small fee.
Some electronics stores also offer recycling. Best Buy is a major one. They will take old TVs for a recycling fee, which varies by size.
Staples and Office Depot sometimes take smaller electronics. Call your local store to check their policy on TVs. It’s an easy drop-off if they do.
This is a reliable, no-fuss method. You know the TV will be handled correctly. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends these programs for safe disposal.
It might cost you twenty to fifty dollars. But you pay for convenience and peace of mind. For many people, this is the best way to get rid of an old TV.
Option 4: Local E-Waste Recycling Events
Your town or county probably holds collection events. These are for electronics waste, or “e-waste.” They happen a few times a year.
Check your city’s official website. Look for the sanitation or public works department page. They will list upcoming e-waste drop-off days.
These events are often free for residents. You drive up, workers unload the TV from your car, and you drive away. It’s very simple.
Some places have a permanent drop-off location. It might be at the local dump or a special facility. You can go there any day they are open.
This is a top choice for how to get rid of an old TV that is broken. It ensures all the toxic parts are processed safely. Nothing goes to a landfill.
It supports your local community’s recycling efforts. I always check for an event first. It’s usually the cheapest and most responsible path.
Option 5: Hauler or Junk Removal Service
Is the TV too heavy to move? Don’t have a truck? A junk removal service can solve that. They come to your house and take it away.
Companies like 1-800-GOT-JUNK? or Junk King do this. You book online or call them. They give you a quote based on how much stuff you have.
They will carry the TV out from your basement or living room. You don’t have to lift a finger. They handle all the heavy work.
These services promise to recycle or donate whenever possible. They sort the items after pickup. Ask them about their recycling policy when you call.
This is the most convenient option, but also the most expensive. You pay for the labor and the truck. For a single TV, it might cost over a hundred dollars.
Use this if you have other junk to clear out too. Make it a whole clean-out day. Then the cost feels more worth it.
Step-by-Step Guide to TV Removal
Let’s walk through the process from start to finish. Follow these steps to get rid of your old TV smoothly.
Step one: Unplug all the cables. Wrap the power cord around the TV. Remove any DVD players or game consoles attached to it.
Step two: Clean it. Wipe off dust with a dry cloth. This is polite if you’re donating or selling it. It also makes it easier to carry.
Step three: Protect the screen. Tape a piece of cardboard over it if you have some. This prevents cracks during moving. An old blanket works too.
Step four: Get help moving it. Old CRT TVs are very heavy and awkward. Never try to lift a big TV by yourself. You could hurt your back.
Step five: Transport it flat. Lay it screen-up in your vehicle. Don’t stack other items on top of the glass. Drive carefully to your drop-off point.
Following these steps keeps you and the TV safe. It makes the job of how to get rid of an old TV much simpler. A little prep goes a long way.
What to Do With a Broken TV
A broken TV limits your options. You can’t sell or donate it in most cases. But you still have good paths forward.
Recycling is your main choice here. Use a manufacturer program, a store drop-off, or a local e-waste event. These are designed for broken electronics.
You might find a repair shop that wants it for parts. Call a few local TV repair places. They might take it off your hands for free to scavenge circuit boards.
Never try to take a TV apart yourself. The components inside can hold a dangerous electrical charge for years. The glass can also cut you badly.
Some scrap metal yards might take it, but call first. They have specific rules about electronics. They need to process the toxic materials correctly.
Getting rid of a broken TV is about safe disposal. Your goal is to keep harmful materials out of the environment. It’s the final, responsible step in its life.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
People make a few big errors with old TVs. Avoid these to save time, money, and hassle.
Mistake one: Putting it on the curb without checking. Your trash collectors might not take it. It could sit there for weeks, and you might get a notice from the city.
Mistake two: Assuming a charity will take it without calling. Policies change. The last thing you want is to load a heavy TV and be turned away at the door.
Mistake three: Trying to sell a broken TV as “for parts” for too much money. Be realistic. If it’s truly broken, list it for free or a very low price just to get it moved.
Mistake four: Not securing it for transport. A TV bouncing around in a truck can shatter. That creates a huge, dangerous mess. Always secure it properly.
Mistake five: Waiting for the “perfect” free option. Sometimes you just need it gone. Paying a small recycling fee is okay. Your time and space have value too.
Learning how to get rid of an old TV means avoiding these pitfalls. A little planning prevents big headaches later on.
Special Case: Old Tube TVs (CRTs)
Those big, bulky TVs from the 90s are a special challenge. They are very heavy and contain the most lead. But they also have a niche market.
First, check if it works. A working CRT is gold to retro gaming fans. List it online specifically mentioning it’s for retro gaming. You might be surprised.
If it’s broken, recycling is a must. The leaded glass is hazardous waste. Do not attempt to break the glass yourself. It releases toxic dust.
Recycling a CRT often costs more than a flat screen. The process is more complex. Call your local e-waste center to ask about their CRT fees.
Some municipalities have special grants to handle CRT recycling. Your local government website might have information on this. It could reduce or eliminate your cost.
Dealing with a CRT takes extra care. But the process for how to get rid of an old TV like this is well-established. Just find the right specialized handler.
How to Prepare for Your New TV
You’re getting rid of the old one, so you probably have a new one coming. Do a bit of prep to make the swap easy.
Measure your space before the new TV arrives. Make sure it will fit on your stand or wall. Check that you have the right cables and power strip ready.
Decide on the fate of the old TV *before* the new one is delivered. Schedule the pickup or drop-off for the same week. This prevents the old one from becoming permanent clutter.
If you’re mounting the new TV on the wall, you’ll need tools. Have a stud finder, level, and the right mounting bracket ready. Or, hire a professional installer.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), you should properly destroy data on smart TVs before disposal. Factory reset it to clear your logged-in accounts and viewing history.
A smooth transition is part of knowing how to get rid of an old TV well. Plan the exit of the old as you welcome the new. It keeps your home tidy and functional.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get rid of an old TV for free?
Check for local e-waste recycling events first. They are often free. You can also try listing a working TV for free on online marketplaces. Someone will usually take it.
Will Best Buy take my old TV?
Yes, Best Buy has a recycling program. They charge a fee, which varies by TV size and type. You can drop it off at their customer service desk. Check their website for current rates.
Is it illegal to throw a TV in the trash?
In most states, yes, it is illegal. TVs are considered hazardous waste. You must use a proper recycling or take-back program. Fines for illegal dumping can be high.
How to get rid of an old TV that is too heavy to move?
Use a junk removal service. They will send a crew to carry it out for you. You can also ask your local recycler if they offer pick-up services for a fee.
Can I recycle a TV with a cracked screen?
Yes, you can and should recycle it. The broken glass makes it more hazardous, so proper handling is key. Tell the recycling center the screen is cracked when you drop it off.
What is the easiest way to get rid of an old TV?
The easiest way is often a store take-back program or a scheduled junk pickup. You pay for the convenience, but you don’t have to do any heavy lifting or research. It’s a simple solution.
Conclusion
So, how to get rid of an old TV? You have many good choices. The best one fits your TV’s condition, your budget, and your time.
Start by seeing if it works. A working TV can be sold or donated. A broken TV should go to a certified e-waste recycler. Never put it in your regular trash.
Use the resources around you. Check city events, store programs, and online listings. The U.S. Department of Energy supports proper e-waste recycling to recover valuable materials.
Your old TV doesn’t have to be a burden. With a little effort, you