Turn That Old Microwave Into Valuable Scrap Metal – Safely
Let’s be honest—when a microwave breaks down, most people just want it gone. But before you haul it to the kerb or toss it in the garage “for later,” here’s something worth knowing: microwaves are full of valuable scrap metal that can be reused and recycled.
With just a bit of know-how and the right safety precautions, you can dismantle a microwave at home and separate the recyclable components. Whether you’re clearing out old appliances or want to make a bit of extra cash from scrap, here’s your no-nonsense guide to doing it safely and responsibly.
⚠️ A Quick Word on Safety First
Microwaves aren’t like toasters or kettles—they contain components that can be hazardous if handled incorrectly. The capacitor, in particular, can store a dangerous electrical charge even after the unit’s been unplugged for days.
So before you grab your screwdriver, remember:
- Unplug the microwave and leave it off for at least 24 hours.
- Discharge the capacitor safely using insulated tools.
- Wear protective gloves and safety goggles.
- Do not attempt this if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with electrical components. Instead, bring the unit to a qualified recycler or scrap yard—we’re happy to handle it for you.
Alright, now that the serious stuff is out of the way, let’s get into it.
What You’ll Need
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
- Pliers or wire cutters
- A socket wrench (optional but helpful)
- A container to collect small screws and parts
- Gloves and safety glasses
- Insulated screwdriver (for capacitor discharge)
Step-by-Step: How to Dismantle a Microwave for Scrap
1. Remove the Outer Casing
Start by unscrewing the back and sides of the microwave to take off the metal housing. These panels are usually held in place by a handful of screws and are made of sheet metal—great for recycling.
🔧 Scrap tip: The casing alone can net you a decent bit of light gauge steel.
2. Locate and Discharge the Capacitor
Once the casing is off, locate the capacitor (it’s usually a black or silver cylinder near the control board or transformer). Carefully use an insulated screwdriver to discharge it by touching both terminals at the same time.
⚠️ Safety reminder: If you’re not confident, don’t attempt this step. It’s better to bring it to your local scrap yard—capacitors can be dangerous.
3. Remove the Transformer and Motor
Next up: the high-voltage transformer and cooling fan motor. These are usually bolted in place and can be removed using a socket wrench or pliers.
- The transformer contains heavy copper windings—great value for scrappers.
- The motor often contains copper or aluminium wire.
- Keep an eye out for coils or solenoids, which also hold scrap-worthy metal.
4. Snip the Wires
Using wire cutters, go ahead and snip all the visible wiring. Most microwave wires are insulated copper wires—bundle them together for recycling.
🧰 Pro tip: Some recyclers buy wires separately by grade, so separating thicker wires from thinner ones can earn you a few more bucks.
5. Extract the Control Board
The circuit board (usually where the keypad and display are located) contains:
- Small amounts of precious metals
- Copper traces
- Soldered components
While you won’t get rich off one microwave board, collecting a few can add up over time.
6. Pull Out the Magnetron – But Handle With Care
The magnetron is the part that actually produces microwaves. While it contains valuable metals like copper and rare earth magnets, it also has ceramic insulators that can contain beryllium, which is toxic if crushed or inhaled.
⚠️ Our advice: Don’t attempt to open the magnetron. Instead, remove it and take it to your local scrap yard intact—they’ll know how to process it safely.
7. Separate Plastic and Non-Metal Parts
Before taking your pile to the yard, separate any plastic, glass, or rubber parts. Most recyclers will only pay for clean metal scrap.
Toss those pieces into the appropriate council recycling or hard rubbish collection bin.
What Metals Can You Salvage?
From one old microwave, you might get:
- Steel sheet casing
- Copper wiring and windings
- Aluminium parts
- Circuit board metals
- Magnets and other heavy metals
Not bad for something that looked like junk, right?
Where to Take Your Scrap
After dismantling your microwave, bring the sorted metal to a licensed metal recycler (like us!). We’ll weigh the materials and pay you based on the type and grade of metal.
If you’re not keen on doing it yourself, you can always drop off the whole unit, and we’ll take care of the dismantling and recycling for you—safely and efficiently.
Final Thoughts: Turn Junk Into Value (Safely)
Taking apart an old microwave for scrap metal is a great way to clear out clutter, recycle valuable materials, and even earn a bit of cash. Just remember—safety is key, especially when dealing with high-voltage parts like capacitors and magnetrons.
If in doubt, skip the tools and bring your appliance to a professional scrap yard. We’ll handle the hazardous stuff and make sure everything that can be recycled gets recycled.
Got an old microwave (or three) sitting in your garage? Drop it off today—we’ll make sure it doesn’t end up in landfill.
If you are in Aspendale, 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
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