PECO offers a number of ways to help lower residential customers’ energy costs, including a program for the free removal of inefficient refrigerators, freezers, and room air conditioners that are still functioning. Click on the below accordions for answers to this program’s the most frequently asked questions.
How do I know the person picking up the appliance is from PECO?
PECO is partnering with Appliance Recycling Centers of America (ARCA) on the program. All ARCA employees will wear uniforms and display an identification badge, with their photograph, identifying them as a PECO contractor.
Is there an incentive to participate in the program?
Yes. Customers who are willing to give up their older, energy-wasting refrigerators and/or freezers will receive a $75 rebate from PECO. A rebate of $10 also is available for energy-wasting room air conditioners with the pickup of a refrigerator or freezer.
How do I get my rebate check?
A check will be mailed to you within four to six weeks after the refrigerator or freezer and air conditioner has been picked up.
How much will I save on my electric bills?
If a secondary refrigerator, usually located in the basement or garage, is removed and not replaced, households can save about $150 per year depending on the size of the unit.
Rebates can only be issued in the form of a check.
What is the Fridge & Freezer Recycling Program?
It is one of several programs PECO has launched to help customers save money and reduce their energy usage. The program removes older, energy-wasting refrigerators and freezers and room air conditioners and recycles the units in an environmentally responsible manner. The units must be in working order.
Why should I recycle my appliances?
Because it will save you money and it is good for the environment. As an example, older refrigerators and freezers typically use four times more electricity than newer models that are being produced today.
What are the requirements to participate in the program?
To qualify, you must be a PECO customer and own the unit to be picked up. In addition, the refrigerator or freezer must be:
When does the Fridge & Freezer Recycling Program end?
The program will be available through May 31, 2021. Depending on available funds, the program may be extended beyond that date.
How do I schedule a pick up?
To schedule a pickup of an older refrigerator or freezer and room air conditioner, customers may call PECO toll-free at 1-888-5-PECO-SAVE (1-888-573-2672) or schedule your appointment online at peco.com/recycling.
Is there a limit on the number of appliances that can be picked up?
There is a pickup limit of two large appliances (refrigerators and freezers) per PECO account per year. A room air conditioner must be picked up in conjunction with a fridge or freezer pickup and not picked up separately by itself
Do I have to put my refrigerator out at the curb?
No. We want to make sure it still works, so keep it in the home and plugged in.
Why is PECO offering this Program?
As part of PECO’s state-mandated efforts to increase energy efficiency, PECO created the Fridge & Freezer Recycling Program. It is one of the many programs that will be offered as a part of PECO’s plan to help customers reduce their energy usage.
How much of the refrigerator or freezer is recycled and how does it benefit the environment?
More than 95% of each unit is recycled by ARCA at a recycling facility located in Philadelphia following guidelines from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program.
