What should you do with your old radiator?
You don't just throw away worn-out heating equipment. But what do you do with that old radiator you've replaced? The good news: your old radiator has value. The metal in it can be recycled, and you'll even get paid for it.
The best option is to turn in your radiator to a scrap metal dealer, such as Krommenhoek Metals. This will get you more money than taking it to the recycling center, and it’s better for the environment than throwing it away. That’s because your old radiator contains valuable scrap iron, copper, and other metals that can be perfectly reused.
What is an old radiator made of?
Radiators are made of various metals. Which metals they are depends on the type and age of your radiator. Most radiators are made of steel or cast iron. Modern radiators are often made of mild steel. This material is affordable and conducts heat well. Older radiators in classic homes are often made of cast iron. This material has a higher carbon content and retains heat better.
Newer designer radiators sometimes use aluminum. This metal is lighter than steel, heats up faster, and is naturally resistant to rust. Premium radiators can also be made of stainless steel.
Don't forget the parts. Pipes, faucets, and fittings often contain copper or brass. These materials have a much higher scrap value than iron. If you keep these parts separate when you turn them in, you'll earn more.
How much can you get for an old radiator?
The answer depends on the weight and type of metal in your radiator. Cast-iron radiators weigh considerably more than steel radiators.
Weight determines your yield
A small radiator section weighs between 5 and 10 kilograms. A complete radiator with 10 sections can therefore easily weigh 50 to 100 kilograms. Larger cast-iron radiators can even weigh 150 to 250 kilograms.
Current Scrap Metal Prices
Scrap prices per kilogram fluctuate daily. On average, you’ll get:
- Scrap iron/steel: €0.15 to €0.20 per kilogram
- Cast iron: about €0.20 per kilogram
- Aluminum: starting at €1.25 per kilo
- Copper from connectors: €4.40 to €7.20 per kilogram
So, an average steel radiator weighing 50 kilograms will fetch you €7.50 to €10. Larger models or radiators with more copper parts are worth more. The cleaner your scrap metal radiator is, the better the price. That makes a difference!
The Benefits of Turning in Your Old Radiator
Recycling radiators as scrap metal is good for your wallet and the environment. For steel, it saves 60% in energy compared to production from raw materials. Recycling aluminum saves as much as 95% in energy. This is because extracting new metals from ore is extremely energy-intensive.
Lower CO2 emissions
Those energy savings directly translate into lower CO₂ emissions. Metal recycling in the Netherlands saves approximately 14.4 million metric tons of CO₂ per year. That’s nearly 8% of the Netherlands’ total CO₂ emissions. Your old radiator may seem small, but every little bit helps.
Circular Economy
Scrap metal can be recycled indefinitely without any loss of quality. The metal from your old radiator is used to make new building materials, auto parts, or even new radiators. This way, you’re contributing to a functioning circular economy.
Turn in your old radiator at Krommenhoek Metals
Krommenhoek Metals is your trusted metal dealer for selling scrap iron and other metals. Whether you’re a private individual or a business, they offer professional service. At Krommenhoek, you’ll get competitive daily prices that reflect current metal market rates. Want to know how much your scrap radiators are worth? Send a photo via WhatsApp and you’ll receive a price estimate right away. Simple, isn’t it?
Need help?
Do you have any questions, or would you like immediate assistance? Our team is ready to provide you with personalized advice and the right solution.
