The end of summer can bring a bittersweet feeling. On one hand, you’re excited for cooler weather and cozy evenings. But on the other hand, it signals the end of the lawn mowing season, leaving you with a big, bulky machine taking up precious space in your garage. If your lawn mower has seen better days – sputtering, smoking, or simply refusing to start – you might be wondering if it’s time to bid farewell and consider scrapping it. But before you haul it to the junkyard, you’re likely wondering, “How much money can I actually get for scrapping a lawn mower?” This article dives deep into the world of lawn mower recycling, exploring factors that influence scrap value, where to sell your old mower, and alternative options to ensure you get the most out of your rusty relic.
The short answer is that the scrap value of a lawn mower can vary significantly depending on its age, condition, and the type of metal it’s made of. Generally, you can expect to receive a small amount of money, often between $10-$50. However, this is just a rough estimate, and several factors can drastically change the value. Let’s explore these factors in detail.
What Factors Determine the Scrap Value of a Lawn Mower?
The amount of money you’ll receive for scrapping your lawn mower depends on several factors:
1. The Metal Composition:
- Steel: Most lawn mowers are primarily constructed from steel, a common scrap metal that’s readily recyclable. The scrap value of steel fluctuates based on market demand and the type of steel used.
- Aluminum: Some newer lawn mowers may incorporate aluminum components, particularly for the housing and deck. Aluminum is a valuable scrap metal, potentially increasing your scrap payout.
- Other Metals: Lawn mowers might contain small amounts of other metals like copper (in electrical components) or brass (in engine parts). While these contributions are minimal, they can add a slight boost to your total scrap value.
2. The Condition of the Lawn Mower:
- Operational Status: A fully functional lawn mower is unlikely to be accepted as scrap. Many scrap yards prefer items that are beyond repair, as they are easier to process and handle.
- Damage and Rust: The level of damage and rust present on your lawn mower can influence its scrap value. Significant damage or extensive rust can make the metal less desirable, leading to a lower scrap price.
- Missing Parts: If parts are missing, like the engine or blades, your lawn mower’s scrap value will be reduced. Scrap yards typically prefer complete units.
3. The Size and Weight of the Lawn Mower:
- Size and Weight: Larger, heavier lawn mowers typically yield more scrap metal, potentially leading to a higher payout. However, the cost of transportation to the scrap yard might offset this advantage.
- Type of Lawn Mower: The specific type of lawn mower, whether push, riding, or robotic, can also impact its scrap value. Riding mowers, for instance, often contain a larger amount of metal than push mowers.
4. Scrap Metal Market Prices:
The scrap metal market is constantly fluctuating. The demand for different metals, fluctuating global prices, and supply and demand factors all affect the price you receive for your old lawn mower.
Where Can You Scrap Your Lawn Mower?
Several places accept scrap lawn mowers:
- Scrap Yards: These yards specialize in accepting scrap metal, including lawn mowers. They offer competitive prices based on current market rates.
- Metal Recycling Centers: These facilities specifically recycle metals, and many accept scrap lawn mowers for processing. They may offer slightly better prices than some scrap yards due to their specialized focus.
- Metal Dealers: Some metal dealers may purchase scrap lawn mowers, although their prices might be lower than those offered by scrap yards and recycling centers.
Alternative Ways to Get Value from Your Old Lawn Mower
While scrapping your old lawn mower is a convenient option, other methods can potentially yield more value:
1. Sell It for Parts:
If your lawn mower is relatively new and has only minor issues, you might be able to sell it for parts. Many individuals and small repair shops seek specific parts for older lawn mowers. Online platforms like eBay or Craigslist can be excellent platforms for selling used parts.
2. Donate It to a Charity:
Some charities accept donated lawn mowers. These organizations often distribute them to low-income families or individuals who can benefit from their use. Check with local charities or community groups to find organizations accepting donated lawn mowers.
3. Fix It Yourself:
If your lawn mower has a simple problem, like a clogged carburetor or a faulty spark plug, you might be able to fix it yourself. Many online resources and repair manuals can provide step-by-step instructions for common repairs. Fixing your lawn mower can save you money and potentially extend its lifespan.
4. Sell It for a Small Price:
Even a non-functional lawn mower might be appealing to someone who needs a cheap source of spare parts or who is willing to put in the effort to fix it. You can list it online or in a local classified section for a small price.
Conclusion:
Scrapping your old lawn mower can be a quick and easy way to get rid of it and potentially earn some extra cash. However, the scrap value can vary greatly based on several factors, including the condition of the mower, the metal composition, and current market prices. By carefully considering your options and exploring alternatives, you can make the most of your old lawn mower and potentially maximize its value.
FAQs
How much can I get for scrapping a lawnmower?
The price you get for scrapping a lawnmower varies based on its condition, brand, and material. For example, a newer, higher-quality lawnmower made of aluminum will fetch a better price than an older, rusty model made of steel. You can expect to receive anywhere from $10 to $50 or more for a lawnmower, with some scrap yards offering a slightly higher rate for certain models.
To get the best possible price, it’s a good idea to clean the lawnmower and remove any unnecessary parts, like the grass catcher or battery. You can also research local scrap yards to find the best rates in your area.
What types of lawnmowers are worth the most?
Generally, newer lawnmowers made from durable materials like aluminum will be worth the most. They’re also more likely to have valuable components, like a powerful electric motor or a reliable gas engine. If your lawnmower has a brand name that is known for quality, like Honda or Toro, it might also fetch a better price.
However, even older lawnmowers made from steel can still be worth something. If they’re in good condition and have all their parts, they might be worth more than a newer lawnmower in poor condition.
Where can I scrap my lawnmower?
You can scrap your lawnmower at various locations, including:
- Scrap yards: These are the most common places to scrap metal, and they typically offer the best prices.
- Metal recycling centers: These centers are similar to scrap yards, but they may have different prices and policies.
- Local pawn shops: While not always the best option for scrap metal, some pawn shops may accept lawnmowers and offer a cash payout for them.
- Online marketplaces: You can list your lawnmower for sale on sites like Craigslist or eBay, although you might have to wait longer to get a buyer.
What should I do before taking my lawnmower to a scrap yard?
Before taking your lawnmower to a scrap yard, here are a few things you can do:
- Clean it: Removing dirt, grass, and oil will make it easier to weigh and identify the metal content.
- Remove unnecessary parts: Take off any attachments like the grass catcher or battery. You can often sell these separately for extra cash.
- Check the gas tank: Make sure the gas tank is empty and the lawnmower is free of any flammable materials.
- Find out the metal type: Knowing whether your lawnmower is primarily made of aluminum or steel can help you negotiate a better price.
Can I scrap a lawnmower with a gas engine?
Yes, you can usually scrap a lawnmower with a gas engine. However, you’ll need to ensure the engine is drained of gasoline and properly disposed of. Many scrap yards will handle this for you. Make sure to check with your local scrap yard about their policies on gas-powered equipment before taking it there.
If you’re not comfortable handling gasoline, you can drain the tank yourself or ask a mechanic to do it for you.
Can I scrap a lawnmower with a battery?
Yes, you can usually scrap a lawnmower with a battery. However, you’ll need to ensure the battery is disconnected and safely disposed of. Many scrap yards will handle this for you.
If you’re not comfortable handling a battery, you can remove it yourself and take it to a battery recycling center. They can safely dispose of the battery and may even give you a small refund for it.
What should I do if my lawnmower is damaged?
If your lawnmower is damaged, it may still be worth scrapping. However, you’re likely to get a lower price than for a fully functional lawnmower. Be sure to check with the scrap yard to find out what they’ll pay for a damaged lawnmower.
You can also try to repair the lawnmower yourself and then sell it for a higher price. However, if the damage is extensive or you’re not comfortable repairing it yourself, scrapping it might be the best option.