Microwaves are a household appliance that most of us can’t live without. From making popcorn on a Friday night to reheating leftovers for a quick dinner, microwaves do a lot of work in a modern home. With average use, you can expect a microwave to last about seven years—but how do you dispose of one when it’s time to replace it? You shouldn’t just toss your microwave into the dumpster! Instead, bring it to Lexington Computer Recycling! We are your leading local resource for electronic and appliance recycling, data destruction, and more.

Why Recycle Microwaves?

Americans throw away millions of small appliances annually, and only a tiny percentage reach a recycling facility. Recycling your old microwave is a responsible way to reduce the amount of waste in landfills and prevent toxins from contaminating the soil.

Microwaves contain several toxic substances, including flame retardants and beryllium, a carcinogen that can be absorbed into the soil and pollute groundwater sources. The minerals and metals found in microwaves require a lot of energy to source, so it’s more practical to reuse what we already have.

Controlling E-Waste with Recycling

When you place e-waste (electronic waste) in your trash can, the waste collection company cannot separate it from the biodegradable items. Many components of electronics and appliances will not biodegrade for thousands of years, so landfills will continue to exceed their maximum capacity. If e-waste goes into an incinerator, the toxins released can damage the atmosphere and, if inhaled, affect not only the environment but individuals’ development and their immune system. By recycling microwaves and other electronics, you’re taking steps to preserve our environment and natural resources.

Why is Recycling Microwaves Difficult?

Lexington Computer Recycling recycles microwaves and other e-waste daily, but obstacles prevent large-scale recycling efforts. Some issues that impact e-waste recycling include:

• Handling hazardous waste.
• Disassembling products.
• Inability to process the rapidly increasing volume of e-waste.
• Limited accessibility to e-waste recycling facilities.

Tips for Maintaining Microwaves

As much as we love what we do, we also enjoy seeing consumers continue to use the same appliances for as long as possible. These are some easy ways to get the most life out of your microwave:

• Clean your microwave regularly. Allowing grease to build up can encourage bacteria growth and reduce your microwave’s efficiency.
• Ensure you allow at least three inches of clearance on every side for air circulation.
• Never use metal, including aluminum foil, styrofoam, or plastic take-out containers in your microwave.
• Be gentle when you close the door. Slamming it can damage the door switch, allowing radiation to escape and blowing a fuse from your microwave working harder to compensate.
  

Contact Us for Microwave Disposal Near Lexington, KY

Lexington Computer Recycling has provided essential recycling services to the community since 2016. Our service is second to none – just take a look at our reviews!

Call (859) 300-3599 to learn more about discounts on initial pickups for new annual contracts or request a custom quote.

Lexington Computer Recycling proudly serves the entire United States, including the greater Lexington, KY, area, including Versailles, Nicholasville, Frankfort, Richmond, and Georgetown.