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Most people are familiar with the recycling procedures for small, everyday household items such as plastics, cans, cardboard, and cartons. However, it can be difficult to decide what to do with recyclable scrap metal, such as copper. Recycling metal is beneficial to both you and the environment because it keeps landfills from overflowing and puts money in your pocket. The following step-by-step guide will help you get started.

How to Recycle Copper

1. Take Safety Precautions 

Before you start sifting through scrap metal, it is essential to have the correct safety gear. Thick work gloves prevent cuts when handling sharp edges while safety glasses keep small particles from going into your eyes. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and thick jeans will also keep you from scraping your arms and legs on larger pieces of metal.

2. Separate Metal From Non-Metal

RecyclingCopper can be found in air conditioners, televisions, refrigerators, and computers. Most scrap yards do not accept items with non-metal components, so it is imperative that you separate metal from non-metal. You can use wire cutters to remove wires from small appliances or electronics. To reach the copper located inside of computers, radios, or DVD players, you must take them apart.

3. Bundle & Weigh Your Copper

Most companies pay for scrap metal by the pound. Weighing your recyclables will help you get a faster, more accurate estimate over the phone. Afterward, bundle your scrap together so it can be easily placed in a vehicle for transport.

 

If you have scrap metal that you need to get rid of, contact Holmes Iron & Metal in Salisbury, NC. With over 40 years of experience, their skilled team is ready to answer any questions you have about recycling metal. For more information about what kind of materials they accept, visit their website. To speak with a team member and get an estimate, call (704) 633-6119.

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