Fridges and freezers are classified as electrical waste under the WEEE Regulations 2013. They contain refrigerants—usually HFCs or HCFOs—that are tightly controlled under F-gas regulations. These substances deplete the ozone layer and contribute to climate change, so they must be extracted and handled by an approved authorised treatment facility (AATF) before the casing is recycled. A licensed fridge removal service in Sheldon will use a refrigerant degassing technician on-site or at the AATF to safely extract these gases before recycling the metal and plastic.
When your fridge is collected, you'll receive a waste transfer note as proof that it has been handled lawfully. This document chains the responsibility from your home through the carrier to the final recycling facility, protecting you legally. Always ask for this note—it's your assurance that the appliance won't be fly-tipped or improperly dismantled. Reputable removal firms are registered as EEE producers or work with licensed waste carriers to meet ODS (ozone-depleting substances) compliance.
