A flatscreen TV can elevate your entertainment space, but when it’s broken or you no longer want it, it’s time to say goodbye. Since TVs take up a lot of room, and regular trash isn’t an option for disposal, you need to explore responsible approaches.
I’ve had to deal with this myself, and I’m sharing nine of the best ways to get rid of an old TV without harming the environment. You can recycle, sell, or even donate your flat-screen TV. If it’s still in decent condition, selling or donating can give it a new life. For a broken TV, recycling ensures it’s safely disposed of.
7 Best Ways to Get Rid of Your Old Flat Screen TV
Looking to responsibly part with your old flat-screen TV? Explore these practical and eco-friendly solutions to declutter your space while staying mindful of the environment. Here are the top options for dealing with your outdated screen!
Donate It:
If your flatscreen TV is still working, donating it can be a great way to help others while responsibly disposing of your television. Many charitable organizations, such as Goodwill and the Salvation Army, often accept donations of electronics, including flat-screen TVs.
Additionally, your local church, children’s club, or even schools and libraries might find it a valuable addition for educational purposes, especially if they operate on a tight budget. Before dropping it off, it’s important to check their requirements to ensure they can use your TV, including whether they need the cords and remotes included.
Some non-profit groups even offer a tax-writeoff for your donations, making your useful contribution even more rewarding. Explore your area to find where your flatscreen television could make the most impact, helping these organizations reach their goals.
Sell It:
If your flat-screen TV is still in good shape and you’re planning to get rid of it, consider selling it instead of throwing it out. Hosting a yard sale or a garage sale can help you connect with local buyers in your community who are looking for affordable household items.
To draw more interest, advertise your sale on social media, put up flyers at coffee shops, libraries, or community centers, and spread the word in your neighborhood. If you’re in larger cities, you may need to contact the local government to check for permits required for hosting a sale.
Don’t forget to include a free sign for items you don’t want, which can encourage someone to take smaller things off your hands. For a more targeted approach, use online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or eBay to post listings.
Take clear pictures of your television set, highlighting its size, picture quality, and specifications, and mention any flaws or problems to ensure potential buyers are fully aware. Check similar listings in your area to set competitive prices, and be willing to negotiate if you want to sell it quickly.
With a little time and effort, you can find a buyer and make some extra money from your older flat-screen TV that’s still worth something.
Repurpose It:
If you’re wondering how to breathe new life into an old TV, think of the possibilities it offers for your home. Start by turning the frame into a unique shelf for your favorite cocktails or even a bar area.
For the tech-savvy, consider using the screen as an additional computer monitor to connect a dual setup that boosts work or streaming efficiency. With a little effort, you can even mount it to display weather, news, or artwork at a glance in high-traffic areas.
Feeling nostalgic? Convert it into a retro gaming station for your downtime. The back panel can also be removed for creative DIY ideas, like a stand for artwork or a unique display piece.
These small changes can spark endless creative transformations! If none of these ideas fit your plans, you may want to explore junk removal cost options to properly dispose of it and free up some space in your home.
Recycle It:
Getting rid of a flat-screen TV can be both the safest and easiest option when you choose to recycle it. Start by checking your local or state rules for proper disposal. Many county waste management services offer curbside pick-up or specific centers where you can bring your old television.
Some services might have options that include a small fee or are scheduled at set times during the year. You can also contact your nearest electronics stores, like BestBuy, as they often accept TVs or flat screens under their recycling programs.
Make sure to check the requirements—for safety reasons, ensure the TV is properly disconnected, with all power cords removed, before dropping it at a center or store. Some programs even offer credits toward a new device when you return your old one.
By placing your TV in the right recycle program, you contribute to safe and environmentally friendly disposal.
Hire a Television Removal Company:
Getting rid of an old TV can be tricky, but hiring a television removal company like Aaron’s Hauling ensures it’s done safely and responsibly. At Aaron’s Hauling, we offer haul-away services that include the pickup and disposal of old electronics, whether you want to recycle them or explore options to donate.
Unlike some local stores or chains like Best Buy, our service is tailored to your convenience—we’ll come to your home and haul the TV away for you. With competitive costs and eco-friendly practices, we make it easy to part with brands like Sony, TCL, and more. Don’t handle this by yourself—let us help keep your area clean and stress-free.
Take the TV to an Electronic Dropoff Events:
Dropoff events are an excellent way to recycle old or broken TVs responsibly. Many cities organize these events at local schools or businesses, allowing residents to safely dispose of TVs and other electronic devices.
To find upcoming events near you, simply search for your city’s name along with the term “electronic dropoff.” These events are often free or low-cost, making them accessible for everyone.
Before attending, confirm that the event accepts TVs, as some may have restrictions or charge a small recycling fee. For those tackling larger cleanout projects, like dealing with hoarded items, the cost to clean a hoarder’s house can vary widely based on the level of clutter and the types of materials involved.
Properly recycling electronics during such cleanouts not only helps protect the environment but also ensures hazardous materials stay out of landfills.
Take the TV to a Nonprofit or Secondhand Store:
Secondhand stores and nonprofits are great options for appliances, including donating your flat-screen TV. Organizations like Goodwill, the Salvation Army, and other resale shops often accept flat-screen TVs in good condition.
Before donating, contact your local store or nonprofit to confirm they accept flat-screen TVs. By donating, you not only declutter your space but also support a good cause.
Don’t Throw Your Old Flatscreen TV in the Regular Trash
Getting rid of an old flatscreen TV might seem easy, but tossing it in the regular trash can be dangerous for both the environment and human health. These electronics contain hazardous materials like mercury, chromium, leaded glass, and PBDEs, which are flame retardants.
When dumped improperly, these items can leak heavy metals and dangerous chemicals into landfills, harming ecosystems and contributing to climate change through the release of methane gas into the atmosphere.
Before you part with your television, take steps to lower the risk of security breaches by logging out of all smart streaming accounts. Failing to log out can leave your devices vulnerable, giving unauthorized hands access to your data and putting you in a compromising position.
Instead of dumping it, consider safe disposal options like recycling, selling, or donating. Many states have made it illegal to throw old televisions in the trash, and ignoring these rules could result in a hefty fine. By responsibly handling your old TV, you help reduce e-waste, protect wildlife, and support a healthier planet.
Conclusion:
Disposing of a flat-screen TV responsibly is essential for protecting the environment and conserving resources. Whether you choose to donate, sell, repurpose, or recycle, each method ensures your old TV doesn’t end up in a landfill, contributing to e-waste.
By exploring these options, you can declutter your space while making a positive impact on the planet.