Consumers Energy begins appliance recycling program

Consumers Energy, the principal subsidiary of Jackson, Michigan-based CMS Energy, is encouraging customers to turn old household items into cash through its appliance recycling program.

Consumers Energy expects to recycle more than 20,000 old refrigerators, freezers, room air conditioners and dehumidifiers this year. The energy provider started offering appliance recycling again after suspending its program in November.

"We are committed to helping our customers reduce their energy costs through a variety of energy efficiency programs. Recycling household appliances is an easy, no-cost way to do that with no hassle and many benefits," says Ted Ykimoff, Consumers Energy's director of energy efficiency programs.

Consumers Energy residential electric customers can receive $50 for each eligible refrigerator or freezer that they recycle and $15 for each room air conditioner or dehumidifier.

Working refrigerators, freezers, room air conditioners and dehumidifiers are eligible for the recycling program. Consumers Energy electric customers can go online to schedule a free pickup, typically within less than two weeks.

Consumers Energy takes steps to make sure old appliances are recycled responsibly. Environmentally harmful refrigerant and foam are recovered and reclaimed or destroyed, and metals, plastic and glass are recycled. Consumers Energy's recycling facility is a participant in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Responsible Appliance Disposal program.

Consumers Energy provides natural gas and electricity to 6.7 million of Michigan’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.