Recycle These Metal Items in the Backyard to Make More Room for Outdoor Fun

When you think of recycling, your mind probably goes to the usual suspects—plastic bottles, cardboard boxes, and aluminum cans. But did you know your backyard is home to a goldmine of recyclable metal items? From rusty lawn mowers to old patio furniture, many common backyard objects can be recycled at a metal recycling center. In this post, we’ll explore how Eco-conscious families and homeowners can make more space in their backyards and some fast cash at the same time, all by recycling metal!

Call 317-244-0700 for Professional Metal Furniture Disposal and Recycling in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-244-0700 for Professional Metal Furniture Disposal and Recycling in Indianapolis Indiana

Why Metal Recycling is Crucial for Eco-Conscious Families

Recycling metal isn’t just about clearing out your clutter; it’s a powerful way to contribute to environmental sustainability. Metals are infinitely recyclable, meaning they can be reused over and over without degrading their properties. This makes metal recycling a key player in reducing waste and conserving natural resources.

By recycling old backyard items, you’re not only keeping them out of landfills but also reducing the need for new raw materials. This translates to fewer mining activities, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and a significant reduction in energy use. For Eco-conscious families, metal recycling is an easy yet impactful way to live more sustainably.

Identifying Recyclable Metal in Your Backyard

Your backyard might seem like an unlikely place to find recyclable metal, but it’s often brimming with possibilities. Here are some common backyard items that can be taken to a metal recycling center:

Aluminum Patio Furniture

Aluminum patio furniture is a popular choice for outdoor decor due to its durability and resistance to rust. When these pieces start to wear out, don’t toss them in the trash. Aluminum is highly recyclable and can be turned into new products with minimal energy.

Cast Iron Furniture

Cast iron is another durable material often used in outdoor furniture. While heavier and more cumbersome than aluminum, cast iron can also be recycled. Its weight makes it particularly valuable in the recycling market.

Metal Swing Sets

Remember that old swing set that the kids have outgrown? Metal swing sets are typically made of steel or aluminum, both of which are recyclable. Taking it apart and recycling the metal can make a big difference.

Old Lawn Mowers

Lawn mowers are primarily made of steel, which is one of the most recycled materials in the world. If your mower has seen better days, consider disassembling it and taking the metal parts to a recycling center.

Broken Grills

That rusty grill taking up space in your backyard can also be recycled. Most grills are made of stainless steel or aluminum. Make sure to remove any non-metal parts before recycling.

Broken AC Units

Air conditioning units may seem like a tricky item to recycle, but they often contain copper, aluminum, and other valuable metals. Contact your local metal recycling center to find out how to properly recycle your old AC unit.

Metal Gates and Fences

Old metal gates and fences can be bulky and hard to dispose of. Fortunately, they are often made of recyclable metals like steel or wrought iron. Breaking them down into manageable pieces will make the recycling process easier.

Leftover Scrap Metal

Whether it’s from a recent DIY project or leftover from home repairs, scrap metal should never be thrown away. Collect all the bits and pieces and take them to a recycling center where they can be processed and reused.

Steps to Prepare Backyard Metal Items for Recycling

Recycling metal from your backyard involves a few preparatory steps to ensure that everything goes smoothly at the recycling center. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Disassemble Large Items – Large items like swing sets and lawn mowers should be disassembled into smaller, more manageable pieces. This makes it easier to transport and ensures each type of metal is correctly sorted.
  2. Clean the Metal – Clean your metal items to remove any dirt, grime, or paint. While it doesn’t need to be spotless, removing excess debris can make the recycling process more efficient.
  3. Sort Different Metals – Different metals have different recycling values. Separate your metals into categories like aluminum, steel, and cast iron. This will help the recycling center process your items more efficiently.
  4. Safety Measures – Always wear protective gloves and goggles when handling metal items to avoid cuts and injuries. Use appropriate tools like wrenches and pliers to disassemble items safely.

Finding a Local Metal Recycling Center

Once you’ve prepared your metal items, the next step is to find a reliable metal recycling center. Here are some tips for locating and choosing the best facility:

Search Online Directories – Websites like Earth911 and RecyclingCenters.org offer directories of recycling centers across the country. Simply enter your ZIP code to find nearby facilities.

Check Local Regulations – Some areas have specific regulations regarding metal recycling. Make sure the recycling center you choose complies with local laws and accepts the types of metal you’re looking to recycle.

Read Reviews and Get Recommendations – Look for reviews online or ask friends and family for recommendations. A reputable recycling center will have positive feedback and a track record of responsible recycling practices.

Ask About Accepted Items and Payments – Not all recycling centers accept every type of metal. Call ahead to confirm that they accept the items you plan to recycle. Some centers even offer payment for certain metals, so inquire about potential earnings.

Conclusion

Recycling metal items from your backyard is a simple yet effective way to contribute to a more sustainable world. By identifying recyclable items, preparing them correctly, and choosing a reputable recycling center, you can make a significant impact on the environment.

Ready to take action? Start by taking a look around your backyard and gathering any metal items that are ready for recycling. Locate your nearest metal recycling center today and turn your backyard clutter into Eco-friendly treasure. Every small step counts towards a greener future.

Do you want to know where to find the highest-paying scrap metal center in the Indy area? Right here! Contact us at 317-244-0700 for professional and hassle-free scrap metal recycling services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We accept all scrap metal and metal items, including junk cars, appliances, aluminum cans, electronics, automotive parts, and much more. Call now for instant cash!

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Let it Flow: A Guide to Recycling Old Plumbing Fixtures

As homeowners and green living advocates, we are constantly seeking ways to minimize our environmental footprint. One often overlooked area is the recycling of old or broken plumbing fixtures. Whether you’re a plumber, contractor, builder, house flipper, or home buyer, understanding the importance and benefits of recycling plumbing fixtures can contribute significantly to both your home improvement projects and the health of our planet.

In this post, we’ll delve into why recycling plumbing fixtures matters, how to do it effectively, and where to start. Let’s take this opportunity to turn what might seem like trash into treasure, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

Call 317-244-0700 to Recycle Scrap Plumbing in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-244-0700 to Recycle Scrap Plumbing in Indianapolis Indiana

Benefits of Recycling Plumbing Fixtures

Environmental Impact

Recycling plumbing fixtures can significantly reduce the strain on natural resources and decrease environmental pollution. Plumbing fixtures are often made from metals like copper, brass, and stainless steel—materials that can be recycled multiple times without losing their properties. By recycling these materials, we can conserve raw resources and reduce the energy consumption required to produce new materials from scratch.

Economic Benefits

For homeowners and contractors, recycling plumbing fixtures can also offer economic incentives. Many local metal recycling centers pay for scrap metal, providing an opportunity to recoup some costs from remodeling or repair projects. Additionally, using reclaimed materials in new projects can be a cost-effective alternative to buying new fixtures.

Common Recyclable Plumbing Fixtures

Here are some common plumbing fixtures that can be recycled:

  • Faucets
  • Showerheads
  • Pipes (copper, brass, stainless steel)
  • Water heaters
  • Toilets (ceramic parts)
  • Sinks

How to Identify Recyclable Fixtures

To determine if a fixture is recyclable, look for recycling symbols or labels indicating the type of material. If in doubt, consult with a trusted metal recycling facility or refer to online resources for guidance. Materials like copper, brass, and stainless steel are highly recyclable, whereas certain plastics and mixed materials might not be.

Preparing Fixtures for Recycling

Before recycling, it’s essential to properly disassemble the fixtures to separate recyclable materials from non-recyclable parts. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Turn off the water supply and disconnect the fixture from the plumbing system.
  2. Use appropriate tools to carefully unscrew and detach parts.
  3. Separate materials: Place metal parts in one pile and non-recyclable materials in another.
  4. Remove any rubber or plastic components that may be attached.

Cleaning and Storing Materials

Cleaning the fixtures before recycling is crucial to ensure they are accepted by the recycling center:

  • Rinse off dirt and debris: Use water and a mild detergent to clean metal parts.
  • Dry thoroughly: Ensure there is no moisture left to prevent rusting.
  • Store in a dry place: Keep the cleaned materials in a dry, safe location until you’re ready to transport them to the recycling center.

Locating Recycling Centers

Finding a reputable and experienced scrap metal recycler or business in your area that accepts plumbing fixtures might require a bit of research:

  • Local directories: Check online directories or municipal websites for local recycling centers and scrap metal buyers.
  • Scrap metal buyers: Your best bet is to contact scrap metal buyers who specialize in materials like copper, brass, and stainless steel.
  • Eco-friendly home improvement stores: Few but some stores have recycling programs for specific types of plumbing and household fixtures.

Recycling Other Types of Scrap Metal

In addition to plumbing fixtures, you can recycle other types of scrap metal in your home:

Safety Reminders

When handling and recycling scrap metal, keep these safety tips in mind:

  • Wear protective gear: Gloves and safety glasses are essential.
  • Avoid sharp edges: Be cautious of sharp metal edges to prevent cuts.
  • Handle hazardous materials carefully: Some fixtures, like old water heaters, may contain hazardous materials. Consult with professionals for safe handling and disposal.

In Summary

Recycling old or broken plumbing fixtures is a powerful way to contribute to a more sustainable world while also reaping economic benefits. From conserving natural resources to reducing waste, the advantages are clear. Recycling isn’t just a task—it’s a commitment to better living. Let’s take this step together and transform our homes and communities for the better.

Ready to make a difference with your scrap plumbing fixtures and plumbed appliances? Contact Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 today to start recycling your old plumbing fixtures and help create a greener future. We pay cash on the spot for all scrap metal and junk!

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How to Recycle Junk Appliances in Indianapolis

Old or broken appliances can still be put to good use. All you have to do is call your Indianapolis scrap metal recycling center and have them pay you for your junk! Not only will they pay you cash for the appliances you recycle, but some might haul it away for you! Most scrap metal companies in Indianapolis offer these services, but not all, so do your research!

Continue reading to learn how to recycle junk appliances in Indianapolis for a cash payout on the spot!

Appliance Disposal Indianapolis Indiana 317-244-0700
Appliance Disposal Indianapolis Indiana 317-244-0700

Indianapolis Junk Appliance Recycling

There are so many recyclable materials in junk appliances. Washer and dryers, refrigerators, microwaves, ovens, dishwashers, ranges, water heaters, water softeners, HVAC systems, and even the kitchen sink can be recycled for their metal. Metal is what makes these items lucrative in the recycling world. Metals like aluminum, steel, iron, copper, and more are popular for recycling because they are reusable and serve many purposes. Below is a list of common appliances and the metals they contain.

Review the list below to better understand what items you might have on hand that can be recycled for cash. Not only can you help the environment, but you can also make a quick buck while doing it!

Top Appliances You Can Recycle:

Refrigerators

There are internal coils inside refrigerators that are made from copper and aluminum. Copper is a fantastic conductor of heat and electricity, and aluminum is light in weight, malleable, and highly purposeful. Externally, many refrigerators are made from steel or stainless steel, a very strong and durable metal. All of these materials are recyclable and valuable. It is important to recycle refrigerators through a well-established and licensed scrap metal company to ensure that Freon, the refrigerant gas, is disposed of safely and properly.

Washing Machines and Dryers

The wiring within a washer and dryer set is made up of copper. Again, copper is a highly advantageous, naturally occurring metal that is an effective conductor of heat and electricity. The main casings are made from strong steel, which is another highly useful and recyclable material. Even if broken or 30 years old, they can be recycled for a profit!

Water Heater Tanks

Water heater tanks are great sources of reusable metal. Whether yours is old, broken, or obsolete, you can take it to a local scrap metal recycle center and have it scrapped for its aluminum and copper components.

Stoves

Stoves generally contain a large quantity of metal, namely cast iron, but also aluminum and copper. Grills, although not technically an appliance, also contain metal that can be recycled.

Dishwashers

Any plumbed appliance, like washing machines and refrigerators, will contain copper wiring and similar plumbing components made of metal. The motor generally contains the most valuable metal content, which makes them great for recycling.

Air Conditioners

Whether commercial, residential, or window, air conditioning units contain a good deal of metal, including copper wiring and copper components. From the inside out, air conditioners can be scrapped for recycling purposes.

Additional Recyclable Items

In all other appliances, things like compressors, motors, tubing and wiring, piping, sheet metal, and more are dismantled from junk appliances and recycled in addition to the parts listed for refrigerators and washers and dryers. Copper wiring, metal components, and sheet metal are the most sought-after materials for metal recycling. Start making a profit today!

If you have old or broken appliances around the house or office, sell them for recycling! Contact Zore’s Recycling at 317-247-8484 for appliance recycling in Indianapolis, Indiana. We pay cash on the spot for all scrap metal materials and items, including refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, HVAC units, plumbing, and more.

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Furnace Maintenance 101

Your furnace will soon be on the clock 24/7 now that Fall is here. But if you do not properly service your furnace system on a bi-annual basis, you could be stuck overpaying for heat and energy this season. To avoid costly utility bills, chilly indoor environments, and premature HVAC replacement, be sure you know how to take good care of your furnace.

Continue below for a little furnace maintenance 101, plus learn where to sell an old or broken furnace in Indianapolis.

Appliance Recycling Center Indianapolis IN 317-244-0700
Appliance Recycling Center Indianapolis IN 317-244-0700

How to Ensure Seasonal Furnace Reliability

A reliable furnace, one that provides heat efficiently when you need it, is only possible when it is serviced on a routine basis. Caring for your furnace should be one of the most important tasks around the house in wintertime. An optimal-working furnace maintains healthy indoor air quality, dependable comfort, and steady utility bills.

Furnace Filters

It is vital to clean or replace your furnace filters each month, but there is much more to the maintenance process. On top of furnace filters, several other parts of a heating system need regular attention. This includes the blower, internal housing, burners, heat exchangers, vents, and more.

Heating Element Inspections

No matter which type of fuel your furnace burns, the heating element or burner needs to be checked every month for damages or noticeable wear and tear. Common fuels are wood, oil, gas, and propane. Look to your owners’ manual to learn where the burner is located and how to inspect it for anomalies.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Malfunctioning vent systems and burners can cause dangerous situations. It is important to understand that a poorly-maintained heating system can lead to a buildup of carbon monoxide, which is a colorless, odorless, and deadly gas that is extremely dangerous to people and pets. You should always have functional carbon monoxide detectors in your home in case of a gas leak. On a yearly basis, it is imperative to have a professional inspect your system for malfunctions such as these, as well as cracks in the heat exchanger and more.

Furnace Cleaning

Another important part of furnace maintenance is cleaning. Dirt is a big problem for furnace systems, and if accumulated in large amounts, can reduce your unit’s performance and indoor air quality. Poor indoor air quality causes respiratory irritations and illnesses, like asthma and allergies. Filters must be cleaned, heat exchangers have to be cleared of dirt and debris, the blower motor needs cleaned, as well as the housing and the internal drain passages.

Safety Features

The last part of furnace maintenance is to check its safety features. This includes the roll-out and pressure switches, the vent fan, and the blower motor.

Is your furnace old or broken, so now you must replace it with a new furnace? If so, you can sell your old one for cash on the spot! Contact Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 for the most profitable and hassle-free electronics recycling and appliance recycling in Indianapolis, Indiana.

You Should Also Read:

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Which Metals Make Junk Appliances Valuable?
Types of
Household Electronics You Can Recycle

Indianapolis Metal Recycling
Indianapolis Metal Recycling

Why You Should Upgrade to a Modern Air Conditioner This Summer

In the recent years, the technology for central air conditioning has advanced in a major way. This improved technology in the heating and cooling industry provides consumers with a wide range of impressive and highly-beneficial incentives. But the overall “umbrella” incentives for such innovation includes financial relief, enhanced comfort, and humanitarianism. So, if you have not upgraded your AC system yet, now is the perfect time to get it done!

Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of upgrading to a modern air conditioner unit, as well as, how you can make some fast cash by recycling your old one!

Appliance Recycling Indianapolis Indiana
We Buy Junk Appliances! 317-244-0700

Efficiency

In terms of humanitarianism, the improved technological advancements made to central cooling have increased HVAC efficiency by leaps and bounds. This means we use less energy to heat and cool our homes and buildings, and in turn, conserve energy by not needing to use as much to heat and cool our homes as compared to before. Improved energy efficiency also provides financial relief, because when less energy is used to run an HVAC system, less energy is billed for at the end of each month.

Indoor Comfort

With new technology that gives us programmable thermostats, we can keep our indoor environments more comfortable than ever before by setting exact temperatures at specified times of the day and night. This also reduces energy consumption since you can set your central cooling system to turn on and off when you are not home, or turn down when you are sleeping. In fact, new HVAC zoning technology allows property owners to program which rooms get conditioned air and when. This drastically improves energy efficiency, reduces energy consumption, and saves on energy bills.

Wi-Fi Technology

On the topic of programmable thermostats, Wi-Fi thermostats offer the same benefits as programmable ones, such as digital interfacing, temperature control, and time schedules. But they offer them in the smartest way possible, plus even more high-tech features! Their feature designs offer improved energy-efficiency, remote programming, Geo-fencing, and even feedback on consumption and efficiency. Wi-Fi thermostats have to be synced with a Wi-Fi router, and then property owners can check and adjust their thermostats via an online application, tablet, computer, or smart phone.

Discreet Operation

The advancements in technology has given central cooling a quitter, more discreet operation. Before, air conditioners were noisy, and didn’t deliver optimal indoor air quality. But now, newer models not only provide health benefits, they are hardly noticeable anymore. In fact, when loud noises occur, it is usually a sign of a problem or malfunction.

How to Recycle Scrap Appliances for Cash in Indianapolis

Call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 to get paid cash on the spot for scrap appliances in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our Indianapolis scrap metal recycling center pays top-dollar for HVAC units, kitchen appliances, electronics, any anything else made of scrap metal! Best of all, we guarantee to pay you cash on the spot! Call 317-244-0700 to sell your old air conditioner in Indianapolis, today.

How to Clean Cast Iron Rust Stains on Stainless Steel

Well anyone with a cast iron skillet knows not to leave it in a wet sink overnight. Yet, many of us still forget or neglect this rule of thumb, only to wake up to an unsightly ring of rust tarnishing their once bright and shiny stainless steel sink. Fortunately, this blunder is easily corrected. All you need are a few common household supplies, and a little elbow grease. Even if your sink is ruined from rust and oxidation, you still have the option of recycling it for cash at a local scrap metal yard. Then you can put that cash towards a new stainless steel sink!

Continue reading to learn all of this and more!

Metal Recycling Center 317-244-0700
Metal Recycling Center 317-244-0700

Rust Formation on Stainless Steel

Stainless steel isn’t exactly stainless. It is a chromium-based, ferrous metal, which means it is vulnerable to certain kinds of corrosion, such as oxidation, if it is not properly maintained. Oxidation occurs when oxygen and moisture come in contact with stainless steel. Upon such exposure, the properties in the metal will begin to interact with the properties in water and oxygen, which in turn, causes the iron in metal to corrode. Rust is simply a form of iron oxide.

What You Need to Clean Away Rust

Typically, simple baking soda solutions will do the trick when it comes to removing rust from metal. But for cast iron rust stains, you will need something a little stronger. An oxalic acid cleaner and a soft sponge are all you need, both of which can be found online or at your nearest grocery store. For oxalic acid cleaner, we recommend the Bar Keepers Friend® Soft Cleanser, which is a liquid version that does not contain any grit or abrasives. You can also use stainless steel polishes and cleaners, as well as, copper cleaners. You do not want to use anything caustic, or that contains harmful chlorides that will destroy the outer protective layer of your sink.

How to Get Started

The next time you leave your skillet in the sink, here is how to remove the residual rust stains:

🧼 Following the manufacturer’s instructions on your oxalic acid cleaner, apply a generous amount to the stained areas.

🧼 Dampen your sponge, and then scrub the cleaner into the stains, in the same direction of the grain.

🧼 Repeat the gentle scrubbing until you feel like the stain has lifted.

🧼 Then simply rinse your sink clean!

How to Scrap an Old Sink

If your sink is too old, or too stained to clean, you can recycle it at a local scrap metal recycling center. Some scrappers even pay for scrap metal, and an old sink is the perfect piece of scrap metal to recycle! After you recycle your old sink for cash, you can use it toward a brand new sink.

Indiana Scrap Metal Buyers Who Pay Cash on the Spot

Call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 to recycle steel in Indianapolis, Indiana. Not only has Zore’s Inc. been a family owned and operated company for over 75 years, we pay cash on the spot for your metal commodities. We accept cans, sheet metal, appliances, vehicles, auto parts, equipment, and more! Request a free estimate, today.