Are there any programs available for recycling old furniture or appliances?

Calgary has a number of government and community initiatives that help residents dispose of old furniture, large appliances, and electronic devices for free or at minimal cost. Below are the main options, ranging from municipal services and seasonal programs to charitable organizations and private companies that promote the redistribution of useful resources and reduce the burden on landfills.

1. Municipal Eco Centers

1.1. Disposal of large appliances

Residents can independently deliver large household appliances — refrigerators, freezers, stoves, washing machines, and dryers — to one of several Eco Centres in the city.

– A fee is charged, which includes:

• the cost of removing freon (for refrigerators and air conditioners),
• a weight-based fee for the item. – Rates and conditions depend on the type of appliance and its weight.

1.2. Disposal of other large household appliances

Similarly, Eco Centres accept stoves, ovens, washing machines, and dishwashers. – The fee is the same as for scrap metal or is usually fixed for each appliance. – Before handing over the appliance, it must be cleaned of food residues and free of hazardous substances.

2. Electronic recycling (e-waste)

2.1. Acceptance at Eco Centres

The City of Calgary has expanded its list of free electronics drop-off services through a pilot agreement with the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA).

– The following items are accepted free of charge: old TVs (all sizes, but larger than 30″), laptops, desktops, monitors, mobile devices, audio and video equipment, chargers, cables, drills, and other power tools (with batteries attached).

– Personal data must be deleted from storage devices before disposal. – Electronics cannot be disposed of in any household containers (blue, black, or green) — they must be delivered to the Eco Centre.

2.2. Local collection points

In addition to Eco Centres, the city works with several verified depots that accept electronics through the ARMA program. Residents can use the map on the ARMA website to find the nearest location.

3. Seasonal community cleanups

Every year, Community Cleanups are held in various areas of Calgary, during which volunteers and the city collect small furniture: sofas, chairs, beds, mattresses, tables, and nightstands. – This is usually a free service for residents.

– Accepted items: furniture (upholstered, wooden), old mattresses, beds, and oversized items such as old frames. – Not accepted: refrigerators and other appliances, gas cylinders, chemical waste.

4. Charities and donation services

4.1. Habitat for Humanity ReStore, The Salvation Army, Goodwill, and others

Most large charitable organizations in Calgary organize free pickup of furniture and working appliances for resale or donation to those in need. – You need to arrange a date and time by calling the organization.

– It is important to ensure that the items are in good condition: furniture should be clean and free of serious damage; appliances should be in working order or at least repairable.

4.2. Local initiatives

Small community projects (such as Women in Need Society) also collect household items for displaced persons and low-income families.

5. Private services and companies

5.1. Full-service removal services

Companies such as 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, JUSTJUNK, or Go Junk provide a “white glove” service for the removal of furniture and appliances, sorting, separation for recycling and donation, with transparent accounting of volumes. – They work by appointment based on load volume and can pick up on the same day. – Clients include homeowners and renovation companies that need to get rid of leftovers after interior renovations.

5.2. Container rental and periodic removal

Some private operators (such as GFL Environmental) offer one-time removal of large items from homes: appliances, furniture, construction debris. This service requires scheduling and payment based on the volume and type of items.

Conclusion

Calgary residents have access to both free and paid solutions for disposing of old furniture and appliances. A good place to start is by taking items to Eco Centres yourself or hiring Community Cleanups for furniture. If you want convenience and a “turnkey” service, private companies will pick up and sort items from your home, sending usable items for recycling and donation. By combining government, community, and private initiatives, everyone can find the best option and minimize their environmental footprint.