How to Recycle TVs and Tapes in Greater Philly

With Earth Day coming up in April, Patch has put together a series of resources to make recycling easier for you and your neighbors all over the Greater Philadelphia area. If we miss any item you want to know how to properly dispose of or recycle, please let us know in the comments.

For those looking to safely get rid of an old television in Greater Philly, there are a number of recycling options.

Bring It In

The following stores offer varying programs and offers to television owners looking to recycle:

• Best Buy: Area Best Buys will accept two electronic items per day, including TVs under 32 inches. Check the following locations for recycling:
   
  • Plymouth Meeting Best Buy
  • King of Prussia Best Buy
  • Springfield Best Buy

Check the Manufacturer

Some manufacturers offer take-back and recycling programs to allow consumers to return their products safely.

LG, Goldstar and Zenith all offer recycling programs for their televisions. Find out more about the program and how to recycle a TV here.

Sony not only takes back old televisions but may offer a gift card in return, if the item in question has value. Click here to find the nearest Sony takeback store and how to take advantage of their free mailback program.

Let the County Handle It

• Montgomery County operates a number of recycling centers that take televisions, including locations in Lower Merion, Plymouth, Whitemarsh and Norristown. Click here for a complete list.
• Delaware County holds several electronics recycling events that accept computers and monitors. Check the county's website for the dates.
• Chester County has a full rundown of places that will recycle electronics in the county, as well as a schedule of its e-waste recycling events, on its website here.
• Philadelphia County holds several events throughout the year for collecting household hazardous waste, including computers and monitors. Check the schedule here. Residents can also drop their computers off at the Northwest Philadelphia sanitation station on Domino Lane.

What About VHS Tapes?

In our last post about how to recycle batteries in the area, several readers asked how to recycle VHS tapes. While we couldn't find any specific places that take tapes (please drop a line in the comments if you know of such a place), the ever helpful Chester County Solid Waste Authority recommends contacting local libraries, Salvation Army locations and Goodwill stores for donations.