Are Lawn Mowers Good for Scrap Metal Value?

If you’re clearing out your shed or upgrading your gardening equipment, you might be wondering: can old lawn mowers bring in some cash at a scrap yard? The answer is yes—but it depends on the type of mower, its condition, and the metals it contains. Let’s take a closer look at how lawn mowers fit into the world of scrap metal recycling and what you can realistically expect.

What Metals Are in a Lawn Mower?

Most lawn mowers are made up of a mix of metals and other materials:

• Steel: The frame, deck, and cutting blades are usually steel, which is highly valuable for scrap.
• Aluminium: Some parts, like the engine casing or certain housings, are aluminium, which fetches a good price.
• Copper: Electrical components in electric mowers, such as wiring, contain copper, which is one of the most valuable metals in scrap recycling.
• Small amounts of other metals: Brass, zinc, and even lead may appear in older engines or battery connections.

Plastic, rubber, and engine fluids are not considered scrap metal, but removing them beforehand ensures your mower is processed safely and efficiently.

Do All Lawn Mowers Have Scrap Value?

Not all mowers are worth the same at a scrap yard. Here’s what affects the value:

• Weight and Size: Larger, heavy-duty mowers naturally contain more metal, meaning more scrap value. Small push mowers might bring only a modest return.
• Metal Composition: Steel and aluminium are commonly accepted, while copper or brass wiring can increase value.
• Condition: Even non-working mowers have scrap value, but dismantling and separating metals can sometimes increase the payout.
• Type of Engine: Petrol engines often contain more valuable metals than electric ones, but electric mower motors can have copper windings, which are highly sought after.

In short, almost any mower has some scrap value, but heavy-duty or metal-rich mowers usually bring the best return.

How to Prepare a Lawn Mower for Scrap

Before you take your mower to a scrap yard, a little preparation can make the process smoother and even increase your payout:

1. Remove Fluids: Drain fuel, oil, and other fluids. This is essential for safety and environmental reasons.
2. Separate Non-Metal Parts: Rubber wheels, plastic casings, and batteries should be removed. Some scrap yards accept batteries separately, as they contain recyclable materials.
3. Dismantle if Possible: If you can safely remove the engine or electrical components, it may make sorting easier and increase the scrap value.

Always follow local recycling guidelines—particularly when dealing with petrol engines or batteries—to avoid fines or hazards.

Where to Take Your Lawn Mower for Scrap

In Australia, many metal recycling facilities and scrap yards accept old lawn mowers. Here are a few tips to find the right one:

• Check Local Scrap Yards: Most accept steel, aluminium, and copper. Some even offer collection services for larger items.
• Ask About Payments: Many facilities pay by weight and metal type, so ask how they calculate scrap value.
• Consider Specialty Recyclers: For electric mowers or hybrid engines, specialised facilities can extract valuable metals like copper more efficiently.

Using a reputable recycler ensures your mower is handled safely, and valuable metals don’t end up in landfill.

Can You Maximise Your Scrap Value?

Yes! A few extra steps can make a noticeable difference:

• Separate Metals: Steel, aluminium, and copper should ideally be separated rather than mixing everything together.
• Weigh Beforehand: Knowing the weight of your metals helps you understand potential payout.
• Remove Contaminants: Oil, plastic, and rubber reduce scrap value and may result in your item being rejected.

Even if you’re only looking for a modest payout, taking these steps helps you recycle responsibly while getting a bit of cash back.

Old lawn mowers may seem like just another piece of garden junk, but they contain valuable metals that can be reused in manufacturing, automotive parts, and construction. Whether it’s a push mower or a heavy-duty ride-on, recycling it properly not only helps the environment but can also put a little extra money in your pocket. So next time you’re upgrading your mower, consider the scrap value—you might be surprised at how worthwhile it can be.

 

If you are in Brighton, and looking for a metal recycling service, this is the best way to visit us.

Super Metal Recycling

345 Frankston – Dandenong Road, Dandenong South VIC 3175

(03) 9706 4909

www.supermetal.com.au