Scrap Value of Household Appliances
Estimated scrap value of common household appliances in Australia. Sorted by value descending. Each entry links to a detailed breakdown showing the metal composition, prep tips, and where to sell.
Household appliances are among the most common items brought to Australian scrap yards, and nearly all contain a mix of metals worth separating before drop-off. A typical fridge, washing machine, or dishwasher combines a steel cabinet (heavy but low-value), a copper-wound motor or compressor (usually the highest-value single component), and increasingly stainless steel drums and aluminium parts. The most common mistake sellers make is bringing whole appliances to the yard without removing the motor — the copper inside a compressor or pump is often worth more than the entire steel shell around it. The items below are sorted by typical scrap value, with each linking to a full component breakdown and preparation tips.