You’ve finally decided to upgrade to a fancy new riding mower, or maybe your trusty push mower has finally given up the ghost after years of faithful service. But now you’re faced with the question: what do you do with the old one? Disposing of a lawn mower, especially a gas-powered model, isn’t as simple as tossing it in the trash. This guide will walk you through the best ways to get rid of your old push mower, covering options like recycling, donation, selling, and even scrapping. We’ll also explore the environmental implications of different disposal methods and offer tips for maximizing your chances of a successful disposal.
Essentially, there are three main approaches to disposing of a push mower:
- Recycling: Many communities have recycling programs specifically for old lawn mowers.
- Donation: If your mower is still in decent working condition, you can donate it to a local charity or community organization.
- Disposal: If your mower is beyond repair or you just want to get rid of it, you’ll need to dispose of it properly, often through a local waste management facility.
Finding a New Home for Your Lawn Mower
The ideal outcome for your old mower is to find a new home where it can continue to be used. Let’s explore some of the most common methods:
1. Donate Your Push Mower
If your lawn mower is still functional, donating it is a great way to give it a second life and benefit a worthy cause.
Here’s how to donate your push mower:
- Identify local organizations: Check with your local Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, or similar charities to see if they accept lawn mower donations. Many organizations use them for home improvement projects, community gardens, or other initiatives.
- Prepare the mower: Make sure the mower is in good working condition and cleaned before donating it.
- Contact the organization: Call or visit the charity to inquire about their donation process and any specific requirements they might have.
2. Selling Your Push Mower
Selling your old lawn mower is a viable option if it’s still in good condition and you’re hoping to recoup some of your investment.
Here are some tips for selling your push mower:
- Assess its value: Research online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or eBay to get an idea of what similar mowers are selling for.
- Clean and maintain: Thoroughly clean the mower and perform basic maintenance like sharpening the blade, checking the oil level, and ensuring all components are in good working order.
- Take clear photos: Showcase the mower’s condition with high-quality photos that highlight its features and any minor blemishes.
- Write a detailed description: Include the make, model, year, and any relevant information about its condition and usage history.
- Set a fair price: Research comparable models to determine a realistic selling price. Be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers.
3. Trading Your Push Mower
Some retailers, especially those specializing in outdoor equipment, might offer trade-in programs for older lawn mowers.
Here’s how to trade in your push mower:
- Contact local retailers: Reach out to local dealerships or home improvement stores and inquire about their trade-in policies.
- Prepare your mower: Clean and maintain the mower to get the best possible trade-in value.
- Negotiate the trade-in: Discuss the trade-in value with the retailer and explore any potential incentives or discounts they might offer.
Recycling Your Old Push Mower
If your lawn mower is no longer functional or too old to donate or sell, recycling is the next best option. Recycling helps keep valuable materials out of landfills and reduces the environmental impact of disposing of your old equipment.
1. Check with Local Recycling Facilities
Many communities have designated recycling programs for large appliances and electronic equipment, including lawn mowers.
Here’s how to find out about local recycling options:
- Contact your local waste management company: Check their website or call their customer service line to learn about specific recycling programs and drop-off locations.
- Visit your local recycling center: Many recycling centers accept a variety of materials, including scrap metal, batteries, and sometimes lawn mowers.
- Search online for local recycling initiatives: Use online resources like Earth911 to find local recycling programs and drop-off points.
2. Dismantle for Parts
Some lawn mower parts, like the metal frame and engine components, can be recycled separately.
Here’s how to dismantle your push mower for recycling:
- Be careful: Wear safety glasses and gloves when working with tools, and always unplug the spark plug before dismantling.
- Remove the engine: If possible, carefully remove the engine from the chassis.
- Separate metal parts: Remove any metal parts, like the frame, wheels, and blades, and set them aside for recycling.
- Discard remaining parts: Dispose of any remaining non-recyclable components according to local guidelines.
Disposing of Your Push Mower
If your lawn mower is beyond repair and not suitable for donation or recycling, you’ll need to dispose of it properly.
1. Contact Your Local Waste Management Facility
Most communities have designated waste disposal facilities that accept old lawn mowers.
Here’s how to find out about local disposal options:
- Check your local waste management website: Many waste management companies have websites with detailed information about waste disposal procedures, including the proper disposal of large appliances like lawn mowers.
- Call your local waste management company: Contact their customer service line to inquire about disposal fees and any specific requirements for disposing of lawn mowers.
- Visit your local landfill: Many landfills have designated areas for disposing of large appliances and other hazardous materials.
2. Consider Special Waste Disposal Services
For large or complex appliances like lawn mowers, specialized waste disposal services can often make the process easier.
Here’s how to find a special waste disposal service:
- Search online for local waste disposal services: Use search engines or online directories to find companies specializing in appliance disposal.
- Contact a local junk removal company: Many junk removal companies offer services for removing old appliances and other large items.
- Inquire about e-waste disposal: Some electronics recycling companies also handle the disposal of appliances with electronic components.
Safety Precautions for Disposing of Your Push Mower
When disposing of a push mower, especially a gas-powered model, it’s important to take safety precautions to prevent accidents and environmental damage.
1. Drain the Fuel Tank
Before disposing of a gas-powered lawn mower, always drain the fuel tank.
Here’s how to drain the fuel tank safely:
- Find a well-ventilated area: Work in an open space away from any heat sources or sparks.
- Wear safety gloves: Protect your hands from spills or fumes.
- Use a siphon pump: Siphon the fuel into a safe container for proper disposal.
- Discard fuel properly: Never pour gasoline down the drain or into the ground. Contact your local waste management facility or hazardous waste collection center for proper disposal instructions.
2. Remove the Spark Plug
Disconnecting the spark plug prevents accidental starts during handling or disposal.
Here’s how to remove the spark plug safely:
- Use a spark plug wrench: Unscrew the spark plug from the engine head.
- Store the spark plug safely: Place the spark plug in a safe location to prevent accidental contact.
Environmental Considerations
Disposing of lawn mowers responsibly is crucial for minimizing environmental impact.
1. Avoid Landfilling
Landfilling is the least desirable option for disposing of lawn mowers, as it contributes to landfill space shortages and potential soil and groundwater contamination.
2. Recycle When Possible
Recycling lawn mower components helps conserve resources and reduces the demand for new materials.
3. Donate or Sell for Extended Lifespan
Giving your lawn mower a new home through donation or sale extends its lifespan and reduces the need for new manufacturing.
Final Thoughts
Disposing of a push mower requires a bit more effort than simply throwing it away. By exploring options like donation, recycling, and responsible disposal, you can ensure your old lawn mower finds a suitable end while minimizing its environmental impact. Always prioritize safe handling practices and check with your local waste management facilities for specific disposal guidelines. Remember, responsible disposal is a small step towards a greener future.
FAQs
What should I do with an old push lawn mower?
There are a few options for getting rid of an old push lawn mower. You can donate it to a local charity or community organization if it is still in working condition. Otherwise, you can sell it, scrap it, or dispose of it in your trash. Just be sure to check with your local municipality for specific guidelines.
How do I get rid of a push lawn mower if it’s not working?
If your push lawn mower is no longer functional, you can try to sell it for parts or scrap it. If it’s too old or damaged, you can dispose of it in your trash. However, many municipalities have restrictions on what can be placed in the trash. Make sure to contact your local waste management service to find out what the proper disposal procedures are for your area.
How do I dispose of a push lawn mower responsibly?
The most responsible way to dispose of a push lawn mower is to recycle it or donate it to a charity or community organization that can give it a new life. You can also consider selling it for parts or scrap it. If you do end up having to throw it away, be sure to remove any fluids or hazardous materials first. Follow your local waste management guidelines for disposal.
Can I donate my push lawn mower?
You can donate your push lawn mower to a local charity or community organization if it is in good working condition. Many organizations accept donations of lawn mowers and other tools to help people in need. Call around to local charities and ask if they accept donations of lawn mowers.
What is the best way to sell my push lawn mower?
If your push lawn mower is in good condition, you can try to sell it online on websites like eBay or Craigslist. You can also list it in local classifieds or put up a sign in your yard. If you’re just looking to get rid of it, you can sell it for parts or scrap it.
What can I do with the parts of my old push lawn mower?
You can try to sell the parts of your old push lawn mower online or at a local flea market. You can also donate them to a local repair shop or recycle them. If you’re not sure what to do with the parts, you can contact your local waste management service for guidance.
How can I prevent my push lawn mower from needing to be disposed of so soon?
To extend the life of your push lawn mower, perform routine maintenance like changing the oil, sharpening the blades, and cleaning the mower deck. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance and usage. If you follow these steps, you can keep your lawn mower in good working condition and avoid having to dispose of it prematurely.