Common Recyclable Metals and Their Sources
Often when someone mentions recycling, most people tend to think of paper and plastic. That is probably because we are hit with these items constantly, such as at the grocery store and on the wrapper of pretty much every bottle we drink. We are constantly reminded to recycle and reuse these products to do our part for the environment. While paper and plastic are important recyclable products, you can recycle much more than that, like going to a metal recycling center orange ca, and make some extra cash while you are at it.
What Can I Recycle?
The list of recyclable products could probably go on for days, but below are five specific materials that are accepted at scrap metal yards.
- Aluminum- Aluminum is commonly recycled through soda and other beverage cans, but it can be found in many other materials. Some car parts, gutters, siding, and even doors may contain aluminum.
- Steel- Steel can be found all over. It is often used for making some large appliance, construction materials, chairs, car parts, and even some cans at the grocery store.
- Iron-You have probably noticed that many pipes are made of iron. So are BBQ grills, gas heaters, some old yard tools, and some other older appliances.
- Brass- Brass is a very valuable metal. Currently, it is used to make things like light fixtures and bathroom fixtures, keys, and doorknobs. A couple of decades ago, it seemed to be everywhere. If you take a look at your grandparents’ belongings, you will probably find many brass items.
- Copper- Copper is an extremely valuable metal, but it is spoken of as if it is rare. That is actually not the case. It just happens to be a bit more difficult to get to because it is inside of electrical wiring and components. In these cases, it takes some time to get it ready for the scrap yard. It can also be found in some household pipes. If you have any copper to scrap, you can usually fetch a good price at a scrap metal yard.
How Much Can I Make from Scrapping?
This can vary tremendously. Aluminum, steel and iron prices fluctuate quite a bit, but you need a good amount of these to make it worth your time. Many people will save aluminum cans for months or years before turning them in. Others will fill trucks full of scrap metal before they make the trip. With brass and copper, you will generally make more per pound but it is probably best to wait until you have more than one piece to take.
If you or a loved one has an old shed or attic full of junk that you want to get rid of, go through the items. You will likely find all kinds of scrap metals. Some people find it in the junk people throw on the side of the road. The truth is, it is all around you. You just need to keep an eye out for it and decide to make the effort. It can make a difference in your pocket and the environment.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a scrap metal yard to turn your scrap into, visit Yelp and search for local scrap metal yards. The results will give you the names and usually reviews on that yard. Users will often share whether they feel a particular scrap metal yard is paying fair prices.
