Home › Appliance disposal › San Diego

Appliance Disposal in San Diego, CA: Fridge Pickup and Rules

How to get rid of an old fridge, freezer, washer, dryer or range in San Diego, from official city pages checked October 31 and November 1, 2026. San Diego population: 1,406,106 (U.S. Census Bureau estimate, July 1, 2025).

City rules and fees

• Major appliances and water heaters do not go in City refuse containers. (City of San Diego Environmental Services: General Refuse Collection Information and Rules)
• Miramar Recycling Center recycling fees: refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners (appliances with CFCs) $25 each; dishwashers, dryers, water heaters, microwaves, stoves, washers and other appliances $12 each. (City of San Diego Environmental Services: Miramar Recycling Center)
• Call (858) 268-8971 for pricing and more information. (City of San Diego Environmental Services: Miramar Recycling Center)

Federal refrigerant rule

• The final disposer of an appliance is responsible for making sure any refrigerant in it is recovered. If someone else recovered it first, EPA requires a signed statement with that person's name and address and the date of recovery. EPA says no sticker is required for disposal. (U.S. EPA: Appliance Disposal (Section 608))

Before you haul it

• Empty fridges and freezers completely.
• Check whether the program wants fridge or freezer doors removed, taped shut or left on. Rules differ by city; some reject taped doors.
• Unplug the appliance. On a gas range or dryer, have the gas line shut off and capped by a qualified person before moving it.
• Call ahead: fees and rules change, and the official pages are the final word.

Other cities

California repair shops

FAQ

Last updated: November 1, 2026