e-CYCLING Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the cost to recycle electronics?
A: Prices vary depending on the items.
- Most electronics are $0.49/lb.
- Rechargeable batteries are $2.29/lb (unlabeled or structurally damaged: $4.99/lb).
- Smoke detectors have a flat fee of $15.00 (see question below for more info).
Q: What should I do with smoke detectors?
A: The majority of smoke detectors are what are called ionizing smoke detectors, which contain a small amount of Americium, a radioactive element. These CANNOT go in the landfills. In most cases, smoke detectors can be sent back to their original manufacturer – check the company’s website for details on takeback programs. We are happy to recycle your smoke alarms for you, but due to the very high processing cost and safety considerations involved, we charge $15 per unit to recycle smoke detectors.
Q: Can I throw my electronics in the garbage/dumpster?
A: The state of Wisconsin has placed a ban on throwing most electronics away in the landfill. This is why our e-CYCLING program is so important: We help get those unwanted electronics out of your closet while keeping things out of our landfills and helping the environment. It’s a win-win for everyone!
Q: What items are you unable to accept?
A: We are unable to accept lightbulbs, refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers, freezers, printer ink cartridges, or liquids (including liquid mercury containing devices, paints, and chemicals).
Q: Where can I take my lightbulbs?
A: Incandescent light bulbs are unfortunately of no overall recyclable value and can be safely thrown away in your garbage. For all other light bulbs (fluorescent, LED, CFL, etc.), Marathon County Solid Waste near Ringle, WI will take them for a small fee. Batteries Plus Bulbs (Rib Mountain) will also take your unwanted light bulbs for a fee. For more information, check their respective websites.
Q: What Should I Do with My Alkaline/Single-Use Batteries?
A: The short answer: because recycling them ISN’T the greenest choice – oddly enough, the garbage is! Even the Wisconsin DNR suggests it. Why? Alkaline batteries are made of fairly benign/harmless materials (zinc, nickel, steel, etc.), so they’re not considered hazardous waste, and recycling them is inefficient – it costs MORE resources than you get back, which is the opposite of the goal with recycling. As strange as it may sound, throwing them in the garbage is the greenest, lowest-impact choice!