Chris Militzer/Miliman12 Photography
For many people, the latest OLED televisions, smart watches and home automation systems were on the top of the holiday season wish list.
That means a lot of “old” technology is on its way out of their homes — but where should it go?
If you have a shoebox or drawer full of old electronics (and their chargers), and an old television or computer in the basement or garage, here’s how to get rid of them safely and responsibly.
Start with an online search: Most major manufacturers allow you to mail them your old electronics for recycling — check with the manufacturer of your cell phone, hard drive or other electronics for services they offer.
Cell phones in particular can be provided as a resource for victims of domestic violence. Remove your SIM card and delete all data, then donate old cell phones to Secure the Call, which works with local police departments. Cell phones may also be recycled through ReCellular, Inc., Recycle for Breast Cancer, or at most Best Buy or Staples locations. (Secure the Call let us know that they also have collection points at libraries in Alexandria. "In fact - the barrel in the Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Central Library(5005 Duke Street) is the BEST library barrel we have in the country for collecting phones," according to the company.
Many of these locations also accept charging cords for recycling.
Shred Station Express in Alexandria also takes electronics for destruction by appointment, including hard drives. Electronics that do not have sensitive data on them can be recycled at 3324 Colvin Street, the Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Collection Center for the City of Alexandria.
The City of Alexandria facility can also take refrigerators, freezers, air conditioning units and dehumidifiers. The facility is open Saturdays and Mondays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. More information about what you can and can’t recycle is available at www.alexandriava.gov.
In Fairfax County, residents can bring electronics to the I-66 Transfer Station (4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax) or the I-95 Landfill Complex (9850 Furnace Road, Lorton). Some Fairfax County government offices also accept cell phones. More information on hours for various locations and what is and is not accepted is available through www.fairfaxcounty.gov.
