Grime To DimeHow to Dispose of Appliances in Howard County
The short answer: Large appliances can be dropped off free at Alpha Ridge Landfill. BUT—if it has Freon (fridges, freezers, ACs), you need to get the refrigerant removed first.
Which Appliances Require Special Handling?
Not all appliances are created equal. Some contain hazardous refrigerants that must be professionally removed before disposal:
Refrigerators
⚠️ Contains Freon
Freezers
⚠️ Contains Freon
Air Conditioners
⚠️ Contains Freon
Dehumidifiers
⚠️ Contains Freon
Washers
✓ No special prep
Dryers
✓ No special prep
Stoves/Ovens
✓ No special prep
Dishwashers
✓ No special prep
Freon Is a Federal Violation
Releasing Freon into the atmosphere is illegal under the Clean Air Act. Fines can reach $44,539 per day. Never puncture refrigerant lines or leave Freon-containing appliances in the trash.
Your Options for Appliance Disposal
Option 1: Alpha Ridge Landfill (FREE)
Howard County residents can drop off large appliances for free at the Residents' Convenience Center.
Cost: FREE for Howard County residents
Address: 2350 Marriottsville Rd, Marriottsville, MD 21104
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
What to bring: Valid ID proving Howard County residency
Freon appliances: Must have refrigerant removed first—bring documentation
Option 2: Scrap Metal Recyclers
Some scrap yards will pay you for old appliances. Metal prices fluctuate, so call ahead.
Potential payout: $5-20 depending on appliance and current metal prices
Best for: Working OR non-working appliances with intact metal
Note: Many scrap yards won't accept Freon appliances unless refrigerant is removed
Local options: Call local scrap yards to confirm they accept appliances
Option 3: Donate (If Working)
Working appliances in good condition can be donated to local charities.
Best for: Appliances less than 10 years old that work properly
Where to donate:
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore (accepts working appliances)
- A Wider Circle (for families in need)
Tax benefit: Get a receipt for your tax-deductible donation
Option 4: Hire Grime To Dime (Same-Day Pickup)
We handle everything—disconnection, Freon documentation, hauling, and proper disposal. You don't lift a finger.
Cost: Starting at $75 per appliance (volume discounts available)
Best for: Multiple appliances, basement/upstairs removal, no truck, no time
We handle: Freon appliances included—no extra prep needed
Service area: All of Howard County
How to Get Freon Removed
If you're taking a refrigerator, freezer, AC, or dehumidifier to Alpha Ridge yourself, you'll need to get the Freon removed first:
- Call an HVAC technician – Ask for "refrigerant evacuation" or "Freon removal"
- Cost: Typically $25-50
- Get documentation – You'll receive a certificate or receipt showing proper removal
- Bring proof to Alpha Ridge – They may ask for documentation
Pro Tip
Some appliance delivery services will haul away your old fridge when delivering a new one. Ask about haul-away when you purchase—it's often cheaper than separate disposal.
Cost Comparison
| Method | Cost | You Haul? | Freon Included? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alpha Ridge Landfill | FREE | Yes | No ($25-50 extra) |
| Scrap Metal Recycler | +$5-20 | Yes | No |
| Retailer Haul-Away | $15-50 | No | Usually |
| Grime To Dime | $75+ | No | Yes ✓ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Appliance Removal in Howard County?
We pick up refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves, and more. Same-day service available.