A refrigerator is ready for pickup when it is empty, defrosted, dry, safely disconnected, measured, and accessible. Refrigerant work is not a homeowner preparation task.
Several days before pickup
- Use, transfer, or discard the food.
- Confirm who will disconnect a water line, built-in ice maker, or hardwired connection.
- Measure the appliance, kitchen opening, doors, hall, gate, and truck route.
- Ask whether doors, shelves, or handles should stay installed for the chosen pickup method.
If the appliance still works, decide whether reuse is realistic before pickup. A donation or resale option may have age, condition, cleanliness, and pickup restrictions. Confirm acceptance before assuming an item will be donated.
The day before
- Unplug the unit only when the owner’s manual and your situation make that safe.
- Move remaining food to another cold location.
- Defrost the freezer with towels or a shallow tray ready for water. Never chip ice with a sharp tool.
- Remove loose bins and shelves or secure them so they cannot shift.
- Dry the interior and floor.
What the pickup team needs to know
Connection
Is it fully unplugged? Is there a water line, gas line, or hardwired circuit?
Size
What are the widest dimensions with handles and hinges?
Access
Are there steps, turns, islands, narrow doors, or a long carry?
Condition
Does it leak, smell, contain pests, or have damaged doors or sharp metal?
Why refrigerant matters
Refrigerators, freezers, window air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and some other appliances contain refrigerants. The US Environmental Protection Agency explains that refrigerant must be recovered properly before final disposal. Do not puncture lines, remove compressors, or vent refrigerant. Ask the hauler where refrigerant-bearing units go after pickup.
Compare the municipal option
Eligible City of Tampa residential solid-waste customers can take a limited number of appliances to the McKay Bay Scale House under current rules. Proof of the qualifying account and residency may be required, and commercial vehicles or mixed loads can be treated differently. Check the current city page before loading.
If the appliance must be carried from inside, the appliance removal page lists the access and disconnection details to share for an estimate.