Read This Before Getting Rid Of An Old Water Heater To Make Some Extra Cash

You may think you know everything about your water heater, including how and when to drain a water heater and the maintenance tip that may be the secret to a longer-lasting water heater. But when it breaks down, it's likely you'll only be thinking about when you can take your next hot shower or, worse, whether there are extra towels in the house so you can clean up the flood in the basement.

Many homeowners may be unaware that old water heaters can be sold as scrap metal. Most U.S. hot water storage tanks are constructed of either polyethylene, fiberglass, galvanized steel, or steel. Scrap yards typically estimate what they will pay after weighing the entire unit, basing the price on current market values. If there are metal parts inside, made of copper, aluminum, or brass, that are not rusty and are separated first, you might be able to earn more, particularly from local repair shops willing to buy water heater parts. But as a whole, the payout won't be anywhere near the cost of your new water heater: Expect to recover anywhere from $7 to $30. Some scrapping companies charge a fee, since hazardous materials will likely need to be separated and disposed of properly, so make sure to call ahead first.

Considering that you'll have to remove the water heater from the basement, drain it of any water that still might be inside the tank, get it into a vehicle, and drive it somewhere (not to mention also learning how to separate parts), the payout may not be worth the effort. The HVAC company you hire to install a new tank might be able to remove the old one, offering to have it recycled. You can also ask the company to simply put the tank out at curbside, since it's common for local scrappers to canvas neighborhoods and haul away anything metal to earn cash. But check first with your municipality, since there are often strict rules for putting out waste. The trash and recycling department might be able to dispose of an old water heater on certain days or by appointment, or hold a bulk trash collection event where you can bring it.

You can try donating your old water heater, but some organizations will not take them, even when they are in working order. Some suggest placing an ad on social media platforms such as Next Door or on Craig's Place and offering to give away the old component. Someone might decide to scrap the tank themselves, or reimagine it. Some creative upcycles include turning it into a fire pit, wood stove, garden planter, outdoor sculpture, or even a barbecue smoker.