If you’ve got an old computer tower or a dusty monitor taking up space, you’re not alone. Whether it’s outdated, broken, or just replaced with something better, many people don’t know the right way to get rid of electronics. The truth is, you shouldn’t just throw them out. In this guide, we’ll walk you through why, and show you how to recycle or donate your old computers and monitors responsibly.
Why You Shouldn’t Throw Away Computers or Monitors
Environmental Risks: Toxic Metals and E-Waste Pollution
Old computers and monitors are packed with materials that can harm the environment if they end up in a landfill. Think lead, mercury, cadmium, and flame retardants—none of which belong in the soil or water supply. When electronics break down in the trash, these toxic substances leach into the ground, polluting our environment for decades.
Legal Restrictions on Dumping Electronics
Many states have laws that make it illegal to dispose of electronics in the trash. States like New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and California all have strict e-waste recycling regulations. That means if you toss your monitor or computer in your curbside bin, you could face a fine—and the item will likely end up improperly handled anyway.
Data Security Risks from Discarded Devices
Even if your old computer is collecting dust, the data on its hard drive could still be accessed. Personal files, saved passwords, and sensitive information don’t magically disappear. Throwing away electronics without properly wiping or destroying the data is risky. Professional recyclers like EACR Inc. can handle this for you, ensuring your information is physically destroyed.
Can You Throw Away Computer Monitors?
Short Answer: No—Here’s Why
Computer monitors might not look harmful, but they contain materials that make them unsafe for landfills. Whether it’s an older CRT monitor or a modern LCD screen, there are hazardous components inside that require special handling. Most waste management companies won’t even take them with your regular trash.
CRT vs. LCD Monitor Disposal
- CRT Monitors (the old, bulky kind): These contain leaded glass and other heavy metals. They’re classified as hazardous waste and must be recycled through a proper facility.
- LCD Monitors: These may look sleeker, but many contain mercury backlights, along with circuit boards and plastics that shouldn’t be landfilled either.
Both types require dismantling and material separation, which should only be done by licensed professionals.
What Happens When You Throw One in the Trash
When a monitor ends up in a landfill, it eventually breaks apart—releasing chemicals into the air, soil, or nearby water. Over time, these contaminants can affect entire ecosystems. Worse, many of these materials could’ve been recycled or reused if handled properly.
Can You Recycle Computers and Monitors?
How Computer Recycling Works: Step-by-Step
- Collection: You drop it off, or a company like EACR Inc. picks it up.
- Sorting: Devices are sorted by type (monitor, desktop, laptop, etc.).
- Data Destruction: Hard drives are destroyed to protect your information.
- Material Separation: Plastic, metal, glass, and circuit boards are separated and processed.
- Refining or Reuse: Materials are either reused or processed into raw materials for manufacturing.
What Parts Are Recyclable: Plastic, Metals, Wiring
Almost every part of a computer or monitor can be reused or recycled:
- Plastics: Used in new electronics or everyday items.
- Metals: Copper and aluminum can be recovered.
- Wires & Boards: Contain metals that are extracted during processing.
Benefits of Recycling (Materials Recovery, Energy Savings)
Recycling electronics helps recover materials while cutting down on the need to mine new resources. It also reduces energy use, pollution, and the volume of e-waste clogging up landfills. Plus, working components can often be refurbished and used again, reducing demand for new products.
Where Can I Recycle My Computer?
Drop-Off Locations: Electronics Recycling Centers Like EACR Inc.
One of the easiest ways to recycle your old computer is to drop it off at a licensed electronics recycling center like EACR Inc. Located in Lakewood, NJ, we accept computers, monitors, laptops, and just about any other electronic device. Just make sure to check hours and requirements before arriving.
Events and Programs: Local E-Waste Drives and Municipal Events
Many towns and cities host e-waste collection events throughout the year. These one-day drives make it convenient to get rid of electronics in bulk, including monitors and computers. You’ll often find them organized by local governments, schools, or environmental groups. If your area participates, it’s a great free option.
Scheduling a Pickup or Requesting a Container
If you’re a business or have more than a few devices, EACR Inc. makes recycling even easier. We offer:
- Scheduled pickups right from your location
- Drop-off containers for ongoing collection at schools, offices, or tech departments
No matter the size of the job, our team handles it from start to finish—and we make sure no electronic waste ends up in a landfill.
What Happens When You Recycle a Computer or Monitor?
What Recyclers Do: Data Destruction, Dismantling, Separation
Once your computer or monitor arrives at a recycling facility like EACR Inc., the process is secure and efficient:
- Data Destruction: Hard drives are wiped or physically shredded
- Sorting: Components are grouped by type (plastic, metal, glass, circuit boards)
- Processing: Each material is prepared for reuse or refinement
This isn’t just tossing your device in a bin—it’s a careful process to make sure every piece goes to the right place.
EACR Inc.’s Zero-Landfill Process
At EACR Inc., no electronic waste goes to a landfill. Everything is:
- Recycled, refurbished, or reused.
- Documented to ensure responsible disposal
- Processed properly, whether it’s one computer or thousands of them
Our goal is simple: protect the planet, protect your data, and make it easy for you to do the right thing.
Data Security and Hard Drive Destruction
Why It Matters Before Recycling
Just because a computer is “old” doesn’t mean your personal data is gone. Hard drives can still store emails, passwords, financial records, and more. Throwing a computer away without removing or wiping the drive is risky. Data theft is real, and improper disposal makes it easier than ever.
Methods: Wiping vs. Physical Destruction
There are two main ways to destroy data:
- Wiping: Software-based data erasure that overwrites the drive
- Physical Destruction: Shredding or crushing the drive to make it unreadable
While wiping can work, physical destruction is the gold standard—especially for businesses handling sensitive data.
How EACR Inc. Provides Secure Data Destruction Services
EACR Inc. offers professional data destruction with:
- On-site or off-site options
- Physical destruction of hard drives, SSDs, and storage media
- Certificates of destruction for your records
Whether you’re a homeowner or a company with hundreds of machines, we guarantee your data is gone for good.
Computer Recycling FAQs
Can I Recycle My Computer If It’s Broken?
Yes—absolutely. Even if your computer doesn’t power on, it still contains materials that can be recovered. Recyclers like EACR Inc. will safely dismantle the device, extract usable components, and ensure that nothing ends up in a landfill. Don’t toss it—recycle it the right way.
Are There Fees for Monitor Recycling?
Sometimes. Because of the materials in monitors, there may be a small fee depending on your location, the type of monitor, or the volume you’re recycling. Contact EACR Inc. for a quick quote—we’ll tell you upfront what to expect, and in many cases, bulk pickups can offset the cost.
Do You Accept Printers and Accessories Too?
Yes, we do. We recycle:
- Printers and scanners
- Keyboards and mice
- Cables, cords, and power supplies
- Speakers and webcams
Whether you’re clearing out a desk or an entire office, we take it all—in one trip.
Why Choose EACR Inc. for Computer and Monitor Recycling
Licensed Electronics Recycling Company With 25+ Years of Experience
EACR Inc. is a licensed electronics recycling company based in New Jersey, serving businesses and residents for over two decades. We know the industry inside and out—and we make the process easy.
Zero-Landfill Policy
Everything we collect is reused, refurbished, or responsibly recycled. We’re committed to protecting the planet and ensuring that no electronic waste ends up in a landfill.
Schedule Your Computer or Monitor Pickup Today
Ready to get rid of your old computers, monitors, or electronics the right way?
Request a quote or schedule your pickup or drop-off today. It’s fast, easy, and environmentally responsible.
