Is it safe to just toss an old microwave into the trash?
2006-06-09 01:40:51 · 15 answers · asked by gary w 1 in Consumer Electronics ➔ Other - Electronics
sell it on ebay.
2006-06-09 01:43:07 · answer #1 · answered by ? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are many steps between "heating" and "cooking". And if you are to make such a device from common materials using common means-and-methods, your options become even more limited. On the assumption that there is about 1 horsepower (746 watts) of energy in one square yard (meter) direct sunlight at the equator at high noon, you only need to capture a small majority of it to get some significant results. But, cooking suggests the ability to sustain temperatures in excess of 350F, in at least a semi-controlled way. Since this is a science project, and you are (theoretically) to do your own research, look up a "concentrating solar collector" that is *parabolic* in shape. Look up the formula to calculate the focus of a parabola - it is a simple formula. Obtain a large piece of cardboard - say... a large Pizza Box. Flatten it. Use Spray-adhesive to laminate aluminum foil, shiny-side-up on the entirety of one side. Form the box, (long way) along the shape you have calculated above. Use more cardboard or thin plywood as the form cut in the correct shape. At the focus, you can broil a hot-dog or hamburger in short order. So, a little stand with skewers would be a useful addition. Enjoy!
2016-03-26 23:08:05 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Donate it to a group such as Potter's House or one of several similar agencies. They have folks who probably can repair it or use parts to repair another one.
You dispose of it... maybe get a little tax deduction... and help them make some money too.
2006-06-09 01:46:45 · answer #3 · answered by J.D. 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yeah, chunk it. It's only harmful when it's plugged in and the door leaks unsafe amounts of microwaves during use.
2006-06-09 01:43:42 · answer #4 · answered by jaike 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My husband (who repairs all house hold appliances) said that there is no radioactive chemicals in the microwave, he said just to bring it to a recycling center.
2006-06-09 01:53:26 · answer #5 · answered by micki_g 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes you can throw it in the trash if your local garbage regulations permit it. Or you could sell it for scrap at the local salvage yard.
2006-06-14 15:13:51 · answer #6 · answered by bolinlamar 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can't do much else. Microwaves are bad in your home and when thrown out.
2006-06-09 01:43:05 · answer #7 · answered by jessigirl00781 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would just throw it out. The city will properly dispose of it!
2006-06-09 01:43:52 · answer #8 · answered by Sunshine 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
call 311 and from there you can arrange for a special pickup.
2006-06-09 03:30:44 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take it to the dump
2006-06-09 01:43:23 · answer #10 · answered by squimberley 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
just throw it away its not going to blow up or anyithng, they generate radiation they arent radioactive
2006-06-09 01:44:33 · answer #11 · answered by vor_tec330 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋