About $5 to $25 – that’s how much a snow blower is worth in scrap metal. The exact amount depends on its size, weight, and what kind of metal parts it has inside.
You might have an old machine sitting in your garage. It’s broken and taking up space. You want to get rid of it and maybe make a few bucks.
I’ve taken apart a few of these for scrap. The process is pretty simple once you know what to look for. Let me walk you through what I found.
This guide will show you the real value. I’ll also tell you the best way to get your money.
What Determines a Snow Blower’s Scrap Value?
Several things change the final price. It’s not just about tossing the whole thing on a scale.
The main factor is weight. Scrap yards pay by the pound. A bigger, heavier machine will be worth more cash.
The type of metal matters a lot too. Steel is common but cheap. Aluminum and copper are less common but pay much better.
You need to know how much is a snow blower worth in scrap metal before you haul it. This saves you a trip for just a few dollars.
Condition plays a role as well. A clean machine with less rust is easier to process. Some yards might pay a tiny bit more for that.
Finally, local scrap prices change daily. Call your yard first for their current rates. This gives you the best idea of your payout.
Breaking Down the Metal Components
Let’s look inside a typical snow blower. It’s a mix of different metals stuck together.
The main body and auger housing are usually steel. This is the bulk of the weight. Steel doesn’t fetch a high price per pound.
The engine block is often aluminum. This is a more valuable piece. The carburetor might have some brass fittings too.
Look for an electric starter motor. Inside, you’ll find copper wire windings. Copper is the real prize in the scrap game.
The auger itself could be steel or rubber. Steel augers add to your weight total. Rubber ones don’t add any scrap value at all.
When you ask how much is a snow blower worth in scrap metal, you’re really asking about these parts. Separating them can boost your profit.
Average Weight and Scrap Price Estimates
Let’s talk numbers. I’ll give you some real-world examples from my experience.
A small single-stage snow blower might weigh 60 pounds. Most of that is steel. At $0.10 per pound for steel, that’s about $6 total.
A bigger two-stage machine can be much heavier. I’ve seen them go over 200 pounds. That could mean $20 or more just in steel weight.
Don’t forget the non-ferrous metals. An aluminum engine block might weigh 15 pounds. Aluminum pays around $0.50 per pound, so that’s $7.50 extra.
If you have copper from the wiring, that’s a bonus. Even a pound of copper can add $3 to your total. Every little bit helps.
So, how much is a snow blower worth in scrap metal on average? For a full-sized machine, $15 to $25 is a fair guess if you bring it whole.
You can check current prices at ISRI, a recycling industry group. Their reports show metal market trends.
Step-by-Step: Prepping Your Snow Blower for Scrap
You can’t just drop it off as-is. A little prep work makes the process smoother.
First, drain all the fluids. Gas and oil are contaminants. Scrap yards will reject a machine with fluids still inside.
Remove the rubber belts and the tires. These aren’t metal. The yard doesn’t want them mixed in with the scrap.
Take off the plastic parts too. Handles, chute controls, and covers are often plastic. They have no value in the metal pile.
Now, decide if you want to separate the metals. You can bring the whole unit as “mixed metal” or “shredder feed.” This is the easiest way.
For more money, take the time to pull the engine apart. Separate the aluminum block from the steel casing. Pull out any copper wire you find.
This step shows you how much is a snow blower worth in scrap metal with effort. The choice between easy money and a bit more cash is yours.
Selling It Whole vs. Parting It Out
You have two main options. Each has pros and cons for your time and wallet.
Selling it whole is the fastest method. You load it up, drive to the yard, and get paid. You’ll get the lower “mixed scrap” price, but it’s simple.
Parting it out takes more work. You need tools and time to disassemble the machine. You separate steel, aluminum, and copper into different piles.
The scrap yard pays better prices for clean, separated metals. You might increase your total payout by 30% or more this way.
Think about your time. Is an extra hour of work worth another $5 to $10? For some people, it is. For others, the quick cash is better.
Consider selling usable parts first. A good tire or a control cable might sell online. This can add to your total profit before you even scrap the metal.
When calculating how much is a snow blower worth in scrap metal, factor in your time. Your labor has value too.
Where to Sell Your Scrap Snow Blower
Not all scrap yards are the same. Finding the right one matters.
Look for a local metal recycling center. Search online for “scrap yard near me.” Read reviews to see if they are fair with customers.
Some yards specialize in auto scrap but will take small engines. Others focus on household metals. Call ahead to confirm they accept snow blowers.
Ask about their payment policy. Most pay by check for small amounts. Some might pay cash, but there are often rules about that.
You will need ID. Scrap yards track their metal sources to prevent theft. This is a normal rule, so bring your driver’s license.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has rules for recycling. A good yard follows them for safe handling.
Knowing where to go is part of knowing how much is a snow blower worth in scrap metal. A good yard gives you an honest weight and price.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve seen people lose money on simple errors. Don’t make these mistakes.
Never leave fluids in the engine. The yard will turn you away. You’ll waste a trip and have to drain it in their parking lot.
Don’t forget to remove non-metal parts. Tires, belts, and plastic reduce your weight. They can also cause problems for the yard’s machinery.
Avoid assuming the price online is your price. Local markets vary. The quote you see from a national site is just a guide.
Don’t just take the first offer. If you have two yards nearby, call both. A few cents more per pound adds up on a heavy item.
Don’t forget safety. Wear gloves and eye protection when taking the machine apart. Sharp metal edges can give you a bad cut.
Avoiding these errors protects your payout. It ensures you get every dollar your snow blower’s scrap metal is worth.
Is It Worth Your Time and Effort?
Let’s be honest. The payday isn’t huge. You need to decide if it’s worth it for you.
For a broken machine headed to the dump, scrap value is a bonus. You were going to get rid of it anyway. Any cash back is a win.
Think about disposal costs. Some towns charge a fee to take an appliance. Scrapping it might actually save you money compared to that fee.
Consider the space you’ll free up. A garage spot is valuable. Clearing out that old blower might be the real reward.
If the machine still has good parts, you might make more selling those. List the engine or wheels online before you scrap the rest.
Ask yourself how much is a snow blower worth in scrap metal to you. Is it worth the loading, driving, and unloading? Only you can answer that.
For me, it’s usually worth it. I combine it with other scrap metal trips. This makes the journey more efficient.
What About Brand or Model?
You might wonder if a fancy brand changes the value. The short answer is no, not really.
Scrap yards don’t care about the brand name. They only care about the weight and type of metal. A Toro and a generic store brand are the same on the scale.
Newer models might use more plastic. This actually reduces the scrap metal weight. An older, all-steel machine could be heavier and worth more.
Electric snow blowers are different. They have more copper wiring in the motor. This can increase their non-ferrous metal value slightly.
But the basic rule stays the same. The scrap value comes from mass and material. The label on the side doesn’t change the price per pound.
So when you ask how much is a snow blower worth in scrap metal, forget the brand. Focus on what it’s made of and how much it weighs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a snow blower worth in scrap metal on average?
Most are worth between $5 and $25. A small one might be at the low end. A big, heavy two-stage model can hit the high end.
Do I need to remove the engine?
No, you can scrap it with the engine attached. But if you remove it, you can separate the aluminum block. This might get you a better price for that part.
Will a scrap yard take a snow blower with gas in it?
No, they will not. You must drain all gasoline and oil first. It’s a fire hazard and an environmental rule.
How do I find my local scrap metal prices?
Search online for “scrap metal prices [your city].” The best way is to call your local recycling yard directly. They will give you their current rates.
Is it better to sell it for parts instead of scrap?
Sometimes, yes. If it’s a common model, parts like tires or augers might sell online. This could make you more money than the raw metal value.
What tools do I need to take it apart?
Basic wrenches and sockets will do most of the job. You might need a screwdriver for plastic covers. Safety gloves and glasses are a good idea too.
Conclusion
So, how much is a snow blower worth in scrap metal? You now know the range is usually $5 to $25.
The value isn’t life-changing money. But it’s a way to clear space and get a little cash for something broken.
Call your local yard, drain the fluids, and load it up. It’s a simple process that anyone can do.
For more info on recycling, visit EPA Recycling Basics. They have great tips for all kinds of items.
