In addition to the $35 reward, the program will also benefit members by allowing them to save up to $150 a year in energy costs as a result of lower electricity usage. Typically, the appliances recycled through the program are outdated units used for extra storage and kept in garages and basements. But the convenience of chilling an extra six-pack and some leftovers can come with a steep price. Refrigerators manufactured before 1990 can use three times more electricity than new appliances.

“If your spring cleaning plans include the garage or basement, getting rid of that old clunker refrigerator or freezer gives you a great head start in freeing up space, saving more money, and getting paid $35 just for letting us move it out and haul it away,” said Doug Ferrell, energy advisor for Northeastern.

The refrigerator recycling program is not a traditional rebate program because there is no purchase of a new appliance necessary. To receive the $35 reward, qualifying members only have to schedule a pickup time to have their old, working refrigerator or freezer removed. Appliance recycler JACO Environmental will then recycle them through a process that returns 95 percent of their material back into the manufacturing stream. It also safely extracts various components that are found inside refrigerators, including contaminated oils, mercury and CFCs.

There is a limit of two appliances per household. Refrigerators and freezers to be recycled must be in working order with an inside measurement of 10-30 cubic feet. Program ends November 15. Offer is subject to change without notice.

To schedule the pick up of a refrigerator or freezer for recycling, call 1-877-395-5535 or click on the Fridge/Freezer rebate icon on the right and enter your zip code to be added to our pick-up schedule. Members will receive a bill credit for $35 within four to six weeks after the collection of the appliance.