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Electronics

In California, it is illegal to put electronic equipment in the trash. Many electronic devices contain toxic chemicals that can leak from the landfill and contaminate groundwater and soil. Electronic devices are those that have a computer inside or a digital display.

Disposal Options:

Alternatives to Disposal: Reuse and Repair

Please note that the HHW Facilities will recycle and/or safely dispose of all accepted electronic items that are dropped off, but they do not repair, refurbish, or donate working electronics. For the highest and best use, please consider repairing broken items or donating working electronics for reuse rather than disposing of them. For more information, check out our Re:Source guide. 

 

Accepted Non-working Electronic Items:

  • Televisions: tubes, flat screens, plasmas, or projectors
  • Cathode ray tubes and devices containing CRT’s
  • Computers, monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, and computer peripherals
  • Cords & cables; string lights
  • Telephones, cell phones, and answering machines
  • Stereo equipment, radios, tape players, VCRs, CD/DVD players, and phonographs
  • Microwave ovens
  • Robot vacuums
  • Electronic ballasts for fluorescent lamps
  • Digital clocks and MP3 music players
  • Digital cameras and video cameras
  • Electronic toys & games

Not Accepted:

Find repair, reuse, and disposal options in RE:Source Guide.

  • Refrigerators or dehumidifiers with refrigerants
  • Furniture
  • Large appliances (air conditioners, stoves, heaters, etc.)

Not Hazardous and Not Accepted:

Small "electrical" items and appliances that have a plug but no computer or digital display are not hazardous waste. Find repair and reuse options for small appliances (working and non-working) in RE:Source Guide. Broken small appliances* may go into the garbage, including:

  • Lamps and light fixtures
  • Hair dryers and hair curlers
  • Pumps
  • Garbage disposals
  • Vacuum cleaners
  • Toasters

*If rechargeable, remove and recycle the battery.

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