You might want to think twice before putting the rubbish out.
This common household item can’t be thrown away due to environmental hazards, and binning it could land you with a hefty fine.
Waste collectors won’t take TVs due to the environmental risks – they leak poisonous chemicals into the ground, which can pollute our water supply.
Therefore, it’s vital to recycle or dispose of your television safely and responsibly to avoid penalties and protect the planet.
Ian Cowley, recycling expert at Cartridge Save, a UK company that recycles old electricals, explains how you can recycle your TV, no matter the condition.
“Disposing of your TV in the bin is illegal under the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations 2013. These items require special handling, usually through council collections or designated recycling points. If caught dumping your TV, you could face a fine of up to £5,000, plus the cost of recycling it,” says Ian.
Before disposing of your television, check if it’s actually faulty. It might be easily repaired, saving you both time and money.
Here are some quick checks to see if your TV is broken:
- Make sure your TV is plugged in and try different sockets to check it’s not the plug.
- Look for any external damage, like cracks or damaged wires.
- Check all connections are secure and plugged in properly.
“If your TV is broken, you’ll probably want to get rid of it. Luckily, there are options for disposing of a broken TV,” says Ian.
Recycling centres: Check your local council’s website for a list of recycling centres that take electronic waste, including old TVs. You can also use online directories to find a centre near you.
Council collection services: Check with your local council to see if they offer a collection service for bulky electronic items like TVs. You can usually arrange a collection online or by phone. Some councils offer this service for free, while others charge a small fee. It’s best to check with your local council beforehand.
“However, if your TV still works and is in good condition, consider selling or donating it. Giving your old TV a new home is a great way to keep harmful materials out of landfill and protect the environment,” Ian concludes.
