Why You Can't Put a TV in the Trash in California
Under California's Electronic Waste Recycling Act (SB 20/SB 50), televisions are classified as Covered Electronic Devices — regulated hazardous waste that cannot be placed in municipal solid waste streams.
The reason: chemistry. TVs contain:
CRT TVs: The glass envelope of a CRT contains lead-silicate glass designed to absorb X-radiation. A 27" CRT typically contains 4–7 pounds of lead. This leaches into groundwater when CRTs are landfilled.
LCD and LED flat panels: Older LCD panels use fluorescent backlights (CCFL) containing mercury. The LCD panel itself may contain liquid crystal compounds.
OLED panels: Organic compounds and rare earth elements.
Plasma TVs: Xenon and neon gas panels with phosphor coatings; some contain trace mercury.
All categories require certified disposal pathways.
TV Recycling by Type
LCD and LED Flat Screen TVs (Most Common)
Modern LED-backlit LCD TVs are the most straightforward to recycle. They are covered under California's Electronic Waste Recycling Act — a recycling fee was paid at purchase, so collection through authorized recyclers is cost-supported.
OC Electronic Recycling accepts all flat panel TVs in any condition — working, non-working, cracked screens. For business quantities, pickup is free and can accommodate bulk scheduling.
OLED and QLED TVs
Newer display technologies are handled similarly to LED flat panels. Accepted for free recycling through authorized collectors.
Plasma TVs
Heavier than equivalent LED panels due to glass panel construction. Accepted for recycling; inform us of approximate size and weight when scheduling as larger plasma sets require two-person handling.
CRT Televisions (Tube TVs)
CRT TVs require the most specialized handling. The lead-silicate glass must be processed by facilities licensed for lead-bearing glass waste — either through lead-glass smelting or specialized CRT glass cullet processors.
This processing has a net cost, which is why some recyclers charge a handling fee for CRTs. OC Electronic Recycling accepts CRT televisions — contact us to discuss handling arrangements based on quantity and size.
When scheduling CRT pickup:
- Tell us how many CRTs and approximate sizes (19", 27", 32", larger)
- A 27" CRT can weigh 80–120 lbs — do not attempt to move large CRTs alone
- We provide team members who handle these safely
Rear Projection TVs
Large rear-projection TVs (typically 50"+ box-style units from the late 1990s–early 2000s) contain projection tubes, optical assemblies, and mirror systems. They can exceed 200 lbs and are awkward due to cabinet construction.
If you have rear projection TVs, call ahead so we can confirm truck and team configurations.
Smart TVs: Account Sign-Out
Smart TVs contain network-connected operating systems with stored accounts and potentially payment information. Before recycling:
- Samsung: Settings → Support → Self Diagnosis → Reset
- LG: Settings → All Settings → General → Reset to Initial Settings
- Sony: Settings → Device Preferences → Reset
- Roku TVs: Settings → System → Advanced System Settings → Factory Reset
This removes accounts and credentials before the device is processed.
For Businesses Disposing of Multiple TVs
Hotels, restaurants, gyms, healthcare facilities, retail chains, and corporate offices regularly retire large numbers of televisions during renovations. OC Electronic Recycling handles bulk TV disposal with:
Free pickup for qualifying business volumes. Multiple TVs from a single location typically qualify.
Scheduled coordination. For hotel properties disposing of room TVs during renovation, we work around your schedule.
Full documentation. Pickup manifest and recycling certificate for corporate sustainability reporting and vendor documentation.
Logistics support. Appropriate truck size and team staffing for quantity and weight.
Call (949) 345-0285 to schedule. We handle TV recycling throughout all 34 Orange County cities.
