What's a Dishwasher Worth in Scrap?
Based on current Australian scrap yard rates and a typical dishwasher's metal composition. Actual yard offers vary by city, load size, and material condition.
Component breakdown
A typical dishwasher weighs 35kg 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 outer frame | Steel · Light Steel | 18.0 | $0.91 |
| Inner tub and racks (modern models) | Stainless Steel · 304 Stainless | 12.0 | $15.55 |
| Pump motor windings | Copper · #2 Copper | 0.8 | $8.67 |
| Pump housing | Aluminium · Cast Aluminium | 0.5 | $1.21 |
Before you take it in
A few minutes of preparation can lift the value toward the high end of the estimated range.
- → The stainless inner tub is the main value — verify with a magnet (304 stainless is non-magnetic)
- → Drain any standing water
Where to sell a dishwasher
Any scrap yard accepting the relevant metals will buy a dishwasher. 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 dishwasher worth in scrap? +
A dishwasher is worth approximately $22.38 to $30.28 AUD in scrap value, with a mid estimate of $26.34. 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 dishwasher? +
A typical dishwasher contains 18kg of steel, 12kg of stainless steel, 0.8kg of copper, 0.5kg of aluminium, totalling about 35kg. The stainless steel component contributes the most value (around $15.55), even though it's not always the heaviest.
How do I prepare a dishwasher for scrapping? +
Several steps lift the return: (1) The stainless inner tub is the main value — verify with a magnet (304 stainless is non-magnetic) (2) Drain any standing water
Where can I sell a dishwasher for scrap? +
Any scrap yard accepting the relevant metals will buy a dishwasher. 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 dishwasher? +
At $26.34 mid estimate, a dishwasher is generally worth scrapping. Proper preparation can lift the value toward the high end of the range — see the prep tips above.