What's a Split System Air Conditioner (Outdoor Unit) Worth in Scrap?
Based on current Australian scrap yard rates and a typical split system air conditioner (outdoor unit)'s metal composition. Actual yard offers vary by city, load size, and material condition.
Component breakdown
A typical split system air conditioner (outdoor unit) weighs 38kg total. Here's where the value comes from — sorted by component, with the metal type, grade, and estimated payout.
| Component | Metal & grade | Weight (kg) | Est. mid value (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinet and fan housing | Steel · Light Steel | 18.0 | $0.91 |
| Refrigerant lines and compressor windings | Copper · #2 Copper | 3.5 | $37.93 |
| Condenser fins | Aluminium · Aluminium Sheet | 6.0 | $13.20 |
Before you take it in
A few minutes of preparation can lift the value toward the high end of the estimated range.
- → Refrigerant must be recovered by a licensed technician — non-negotiable, both legally and practically
- → The aluminium-copper condenser coil is often paid as 'irony aluminium' (mixed) unless you separate it
- → Stripping the copper lines yourself before drop-off can significantly increase your return
Safety & legal notes
Refrigerant recovery is required by law and most yards will not accept a unit unless it's documented as degassed.
Where to sell a split system air conditioner (outdoor unit)
Any scrap yard accepting the relevant metals will buy a split system air conditioner (outdoor unit). Use our city directory to find yards in your area and see region-specific rates — payouts in regional and remote areas are typically lower than capital cities due to transport costs.
For larger items, call ahead to confirm pickup arrangements or weighbridge access. Most yards have minimum drop-off weights.
Other household appliances
Frequently asked questions
How much is a split system air conditioner (outdoor unit) worth in scrap? +
A split system air conditioner (outdoor unit) is worth approximately $44.23 to $59.84 AUD in scrap value, with a mid estimate of $52.04. The exact amount depends on the city you sell in (yards in remote cities pay less due to transport costs), the condition of the components, and how well the item is prepared before drop-off.
What metals are in a split system air conditioner (outdoor unit)? +
A typical split system air conditioner (outdoor unit) contains 18kg of steel, 3.5kg of copper, 6kg of aluminium, totalling about 38kg. The copper component contributes the most value (around $37.93), even though it's not always the heaviest.
How do I prepare a split system air conditioner (outdoor unit) for scrapping? +
Several steps lift the return: (1) Refrigerant must be recovered by a licensed technician — non-negotiable, both legally and practically (2) The aluminium-copper condenser coil is often paid as 'irony aluminium' (mixed) unless you separate it (3) Stripping the copper lines yourself before drop-off can significantly increase your return
Where can I sell a split system air conditioner (outdoor unit) for scrap? +
Any scrap yard accepting the relevant metals will buy a split system air conditioner (outdoor unit). See our <a href="/cities/">city directory</a> for region-specific yards and rates. Larger items may need pickup arrangement or weighbridge access — call ahead to confirm hours and acceptance.
Is it worth scrapping a single split system air conditioner (outdoor unit)? +
At $52.04 mid estimate, a split system air conditioner (outdoor unit) is generally worth scrapping. Proper preparation can lift the value toward the high end of the range — see the prep tips above.
Are there any safety or legal considerations with scrapping a split system air conditioner (outdoor unit)? +
Refrigerant recovery is required by law and most yards will not accept a unit unless it's documented as degassed.