Your old dehumidifier has several paths forward depending on its condition
An old dehumidifier that no longer works or that you've replaced doesn't have to go to a landfill. You can donate it if it still runs, sell it online, have it recycled at an e-waste facility, or arrange bulk trash pickup. The route depends on whether the unit works, what your local services offer, and how quickly you need it gone. A working dehumidifier has real resale value—people buy them for basements, RVs, and seasonal storage—so that's worth exploring first.
The catch is that dehumidifiers contain refrigerant and compressor oil that require special handling during recycling or disposal. You cannot straightforward throw one in the trash or leave it curbside in most places. This guide walks you through each option so you can choose the one that fits your situation.
Key Takeaways
- Working dehumidifiers sell on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp for $30 to $150 depending on size and brand, so listing it online is often the fastest way to get it gone.
- Donation centers like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity ReStore accept dehumidifiers in working condition, though you may need to deliver it yourself.
- E-waste recycling facilities handle the refrigerant and oil safely and are free or low-cost; find one through your county solid waste office or Earth911.com.
- Bulk trash pickup through your city or county removes dehumidifiers for free or a small fee, but you must schedule it in advance and the unit sits outside until collection day.
- Never throw a dehumidifier in regular trash or leave it at the curb without arranging pickup, as it violates environmental law in most places.
Selling a working dehumidifier online
If your dehumidifier still runs and removes moisture, selling it is usually the fastest and easiest option. Post it on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp with a photo, the brand and model, and how long you've owned it. Include whether it has a hose hookup, a bucket, or both—that detail matters to buyers. Price it $30 to $150 depending on size; a 50-pint unit in good shape typically sells faster than a 30-pint one.
Be honest about any noise it makes or if the bucket is cracked. Buyers expect to pick it up themselves, so mention that clearly and ask them to arrange a time. Most sales happen within a week. If you're uncomfortable with strangers coming to your home, offer to meet in a public place like a parking lot, or ask a friend to be present during the sale.
Donating to a thrift store or nonprofit
Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity ReStore accept working dehumidifiers. Call ahead to confirm they take them—policies vary by location. Some stores have size limits or won't accept items with visible wear, so be upfront about the unit's condition.
You'll almost always need to deliver it yourself; most thrift stores don't pick up large appliances. Get a receipt for your records if you plan to claim a tax deduction. Donation is a good choice if you want the unit gone quickly and don't want to deal with selling it, even though you won't get money back.
Taking it to an e-waste recycling facility
E-waste recyclers safely drain the refrigerant and compressor oil from your dehumidifier before breaking it down for parts and scrap metal. This is the environmentally sound choice if the unit no longer works or if you can't sell or donate it.
Find a facility near you through Earth911.com or by calling your county solid waste office. Many facilities charge $10 to $25 per unit, though some accept dehumidifiers for free. Ask whether you need to drop it off or if they pick up. Some retailers like Best Buy also accept dehumidifiers for recycling, though policies and fees vary.
Arranging bulk trash pickup through your city
Most cities and counties offer bulk trash pickup for large items like dehumidifiers, usually for free or a small fee. Call your local sanitation department or check your city's website to schedule a pickup day. You'll typically need to place the unit at the curb by a certain time, and it will be collected within a few days.
The downside is that you can't control when it gets picked up, so the dehumidifier sits outside and takes up space. Some areas limit the number of bulk items per month, so check before you schedule. This option works well if you have other large items to dispose of at the same time.
What not to do with an old dehumidifier
Do not throw a dehumidifier in the trash, leave it at the curb for regular garbage pickup, or abandon it. Dehumidifiers contain refrigerant (usually R-410A or R-22) and compressor oil that are regulated under the Clean Air Act. Releasing these into the environment is illegal and carries fines. Landfills and waste trucks are not equipped to handle them safely.
Do not attempt to drain the refrigerant yourself unless you hold an EPA Section 608 certification. The process requires special tools and training, and improper handling can injure you and damage the environment. Leave that work to professionals at recycling facilities.
Comparing your options at a glance
| Option | Best for | Cost to you | Time to removal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sell online | Working units; you want money back | $0 (you earn $30–$150) | 1–2 weeks |
| Donate to thrift store | Working units; quick removal without selling | $0 | 1–3 days (you deliver) |
| E-waste recycling | Broken units; environmentally responsible | $10–$25 (or free) | 1–2 weeks |
| Bulk trash pickup | Any condition; you have other large items | $0–$25 | 3–7 days (scheduled) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a dehumidifier in the trash?
No. Dehumidifiers contain refrigerant and oil that are regulated under federal environmental law. Throwing one in the trash or leaving it for regular pickup is illegal in most places and can result in fines. Use one of the four legal options instead.
How much can I sell an old dehumidifier for?
A working 30-pint dehumidifier typically sells for $30 to $80, while a 50-pint or larger unit sells for $80 to $150. Price depends on brand, age, and condition. Check what similar models are listed for on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist in your area to set a competitive price.
Will Goodwill or Salvation Army pick up a dehumidifier?
Most locations do not offer pickup for large appliances. You will need to deliver it yourself. Call ahead to confirm they accept dehumidifiers and ask about their condition requirements before you make the trip.
What if my dehumidifier is broken and I don't want to pay for recycling?
Check whether your city offers free bulk trash pickup—many do. Call your local sanitation department to schedule a collection day. If there's a fee and you want to avoid it, ask whether any local e-waste facilities accept dehumidifiers for free, as some do.
Do I need to drain the water from my dehumidifier before disposal?
Yes. Empty the bucket or disconnect the hose and let any standing water drain before you sell, donate, or recycle it. This prevents spills during transport and makes the unit safer to handle.