How do I dispose of a broken microwave?

For an ecologically friendly way to dispose of a broken microwave, find a local company that specializes in recycling old appliances. Otherwise, simply throw the microwave out with other normal household trash.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency does not classify old and broken microwaves as e-waste, which requires special disposal measures. However, it does caution that there may be parts of old microwaves that may still be hazardous, such as the capacitor which contains a residual electrical charge. Still, taking old or broken microwaves to scrap metal or recycling companies can lessen the impact the trash has on the environment.