Is it safe to throw an old computer in the garbage?

In California, it is illegal to throw your old TVs, computers, batteries and more into the trash. E-waste is defined as televisions, computers, laptops, printers, cables, VCRs, cell phones, copiers, fax machines, stereos, and electronic games. If this goes into a landfill, its toxic components go into our water table.

How do I get rid of my old computer that doesn’t work?

So what are your options? You can recycle or donate your computer. Computer manufacturers, electronics stores, and other organizations have computer recycling or donation programs. Check out the Environmental Protection Agency’s Electronics Donation and Recycling page to learn about recycling or donating your computer.

How do I get rid of a laptop that won’t turn on?

Simply remove the hard drive and sell or donate as is. You can then purchase another computer/laptop and copy all critical files to your new computer. If no one else should have access to data on the drive(s), take a sledge hammer to it or run a powerful magnet over it or leave the magnet on top of it for a few days.

How do I get rid of a laptop that doesn’t work?

If your computer still works, consider donating it to family, friends, or any computer-based charities in your area. If you choose to recycle your laptop, reach out to your local electronics recycler and ask about drop-off policies. As a last resort, throw your old laptop away with your garbage.

Should you get rid of your old laptops and computers?

Sometimes you’ll have a need for greater speed or capacity and get a new laptop or computer before your old one actually stops working. You also might also clean out an elderly parent’s house and come across a functional but non-used computer. Here are some ways to get rid of functional laptops and computers and put them to good use.

Can I scrap computer parts?

If you are looking to scrap other computer parts like towers, boards, and motherboards, be sure to check our list of acceptable materials before heading in. We don’t accept monitors, keyboards, or mice, but we do accept computer towers and their components.

Should I back up my computer before recycling it?

However, it’s always a good idea for you to do a physical backup before recycling your laptop. (Note: After backing up your files, you may want to destroy your old hard drive as well to ensure all your data are as as safe as possible.

Can I Recycle my laptop without the battery?

Rockaway Recycling accepts dozens of types of scrap metals including Laptops and other electronics. With or without the battery we can recycle your Laptops for scrap along with other computer scrap like harddrives, CPU’s and more. If you have other electronics or scrap metal, be sure to check our price list on our website.