If you’re looking to make some extra money while also doing your part for the environment, scrapping copper is a great way to go. Copper is one of the most valuable metals you can recycle, and it’s found in many everyday items. Whether you’re cleaning out your garage or tearing down an old appliance, you might be surprised at how much copper scrap you already have lying around.
Common Copper Items You Can Find Around the House
Here are five common copper-containing items you can scrap for cash:
1. Copper Wire
Copper wire scrap is one of the most common and profitable forms of scrap copper. It’s found in:
- Electrical wiring from old electronics or home renovation projects
- Extension cords
- Power tools and appliances
The highest value comes from bare bright copper wire, which is stripped of insulation. If you’re willing to put in a little work to remove the coating, you’ll get a much better price per pound.
2. Plumbing Pipes
Old copper plumbing is another valuable scrap source. If you’re replacing your home’s plumbing or working on a remodeling project, don’t toss those old pipes. Even oxidized or painted copper pipes have good scrap value. Make sure they are free of fittings and solder for maximum payout.
3. Appliance Components
Large household appliances often contain copper wiring and parts. Look for:
- Refrigerators and freezers
- Washing machines and dryers
- Air conditioners Scrap(especially valuable for the copper coils)
Before scrapping, disassemble the appliance and separate the copper from other materials like aluminum or steel to get top dollar.
4. Electric Motors
Electric motors, found in fans, old power tools, vacuums, and more, contain copper windings. While it takes a bit of effort to break them down, the copper inside is worth extracting. Larger motors from industrial equipment are especially lucrative.
5. Old Electronics (E-Waste)
Don’t throw away that old computer or broken television. Electronic waste often includes:
- Copper heat sinks
- Power cables
- Circuit boards with copper traces
While scrapping e-waste can be more complex and sometimes involves handling hazardous materials, the copper recovery can be worthwhile.
Final Tips for Scrapping Copper
- Separate your copper by type (bare bright, #1, #2) to maximise your payout.
- Clean off any insulation or attachments that could downgrade the value.
- Check with local scrapyards for current copper prices and policies on accepting items.
Scrapping copper isn’t just profitable—it’s also environmentally friendly. You’re helping reduce the need for mining and keeping valuable resources out of landfills. Contact A1 Metal Recycle to sell you copper scrap at great price
