Due to a national shortage of recycling capacity, we have temporarily stopped accepting fridges, freezers and other cooling appliances at Harefield Civic Amenity Site, Space Waye Reuse and Recycling Centre, our West Drayton waste weekends and at our pop-up waste drop off events.
The suspension is effective immediately and is necessary to ensure sites can continue to operate safely and within their storage limits.
Please do not bring these items to any of our sites, as we will be unable to accept them.
We are working with our waste partners to find alternative arrangements and resume normal service as soon as possible. We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.
Why are you not accepting fridges and freezers?
Recycling facilities across the UK are currently under significant pressure due to facility fires, plant closures and limited storage capacity.
This has reduced the capacity available to recycle and process fridges, freezers and other cooling appliances, resulting in a nationwide backlog.
Can I book a bulky waste collection for a fridge or freezer?
No. Bulky waste collections for fridges and freezers were suspended in August due to the national shortage in recycling capacity.
What should I do with my fridge or freezer?
While the suspension is in place, please consider the following options.
- Store items safely at home - if possible, keep your old fridge or freezer at home until we can accept these items again.
- Use a retailer take-back scheme - if you're buying a new fridge or freezer, check whether the retailer can take away and recycle your old appliance.
- Consider a repair - replacement parts, such as drawers and seals, can often be bought online. For mechanical problems, consider using a local appliance repair company.
- Reuse it - if the appliance is still working, consider offering it to someone else through Freegle, Freecycle, Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor.
Important: Beware of rogue waste collectors. Only use a licensed waste carrier to dispose of any waste. Ask where they intend to take your appliance and keep your receipt. Using an unlicensed waste collector could result in your appliance being fly-tipped.