How to dispose of a TV
Upgrading your home entertainment system? If you’ve got an old or broken TV taking up space, figuring out how to dispose of it properly can be a hassle. Most curbside garbage services won’t take televisions, and improper disposal can be harmful to the environment. That’s where Junk Dispatch comes in. We make TV removal fast, easy, and eco-friendly—so you can clear out the clutter and enjoy your space again.
Why improperly disposing of TVs and electronic waste can be harmful
In 25 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, recycling TVs and other electronic waste isn’t optional—it’s the law. Some states even ban TVs from landfills entirely. Older TVs with cathode ray tubes (CRTs) can contain up to 8 pounds of lead, which can seep into groundwater if dumped improperly. Most TVs also hold harmful materials like mercury, cadmium, plastics, and other toxins that pose serious environmental risks. Even modern LCD, OLED, and plasma screens contain substances that require careful disposal. Despite these dangers, only about 15% of e-waste is recycled annually, according to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Be part of the solution—reuse, recycle, and rely on Junk Dispatch for safe, eco-friendly TV removal.
TV disposal options
Once you’ve upgraded your TV, the next step is figuring out what to do with the old one. Whether it still works or is completely broken, there are several responsible ways to dispose of it. Here are seven smart options for getting rid of your television:
1. Sell Your TV (If It Still Works)
If your TV is in working condition, you might consider selling it. Before you do, make sure to:
Log out of all streaming accounts to protect your personal data.
Perform a factory reset through the settings menu to erase passwords, saved info, and apps.
While used TVs don’t have much resale value due to the low cost of new models, CRT (cathode ray tube) TVs may be valuable to retro gamers. Look for component (RGB) or S-Video inputs on the back — these features can make your old TV more desirable for vintage gaming setups.
2. Donate It
If the TV works, consider donating it to a local nonprofit, school, or community center. Many charities, including Goodwill and Salvation Army, accept TV donations and may even offer pickup for large items. Be sure to check their donation guidelines in advance.
3. Give It Away
Sometimes a friend, neighbor, or local group might be happy to take your old TV off your hands. Use platforms like:
Facebook Marketplace
Nextdoor
Craigslist
Buy Nothing Project
Be sure to specify pickup requirements to avoid any last-minute hassles.
4. Return It to the Manufacturer
Some TV manufacturers offer recycling or trade-in programs for old televisions. Check the brand’s website to see if they accept returns, or refer to the EPA’s electronics recycling list for manufacturer info.
5. Call Junk Dispatch for Easy TV Removal
Want a hassle-free solution? Junk Dispatch offers fast, professional TV removal and e-waste disposal. We’ll come to your home, pick up your old television—no matter the size—and make sure it’s handled responsibly. We prioritize recycling and safe disposal for all electronics we collect.
Whether you have a broken flat-screen or a heavy CRT, Junk Dispatch makes TV removal easy, eco-friendly, and affordable. Contact us today to schedule a pickup.
Get Rid of Your Old TV with Junk Dispatch
Ready to say goodbye to that old television? Junk Dispatch makes TV disposal and e-waste removal simple, safe, and stress-free. Our team handles all the heavy lifting and ensures your old electronics are recycled or properly disposed of — no need to lift a finger.
Worried about the cost? We offer free, no-obligation estimates so you know exactly what to expect. Just contact us or schedule a pickup to get started. For more details on pricing, visit our contact us page here.
Let Junk Dispatch take care of your unwanted TV the right way. Reach out today and make clutter a thing of the past.
Junk Dispatch offers fast, junk removal services in Middlesex County, Essex County, and Boston. We remove old mattresses from homes, apartments, dorms, and businesses across Burlington, Woburn, Lexington, Arlington, Medford, Melrose, Wakefield, Stoneham, Winchester, Reading, Billerica, Wilmington, Bedford, Concord, Sudbury, Weston, Wayland, Brookline, Wellesley, Quincy, Braintree, Milton, Dedham, Cambridge, Somerville, Fenway, South End, Back Bay, Brighton, Dorchester, Seaport, Financial District, Longwood Medical Area, Revere, Lynn, Salem, Peabody, Danvers, Beverly, and more. Schedule your mattress removal today!