Is it possible to Recycle Power Cords?

Posted by Jennifer Truong on April 4th, 2019

A power cord alternatively known as a power cable provides power to the computer, monitor, printers, and other components. If you spend a few minutes to clean out your console box you are sure to find at least a few cords you no longer use. If they are in working condition, you can donate them to someone. But if they no longer work there are various ways you can recycle them.

And in this article, we are going to talk about the possible ways to recycle power cables.

Recycling Power Cords

The best way to recycle extension cords and any other type of Power cords is to look for an electronics recycler in your area. Most of the electronics recycling programs would welcome all your power and extension cords that were compatible with your old electronic devices and any additional electric cords and cables.

If you look at their construction, most of the power cords are made of copper or aluminum. These metals are highly recyclable. These metals in the cords contain an insulating layer made of plastic or rubber. Usually, the insulator isn’t recyclable. But the metal inside it is important. Therefore, recyclers will strip the wire to recycle it.

One of the best ways to recycle your old cords is e-waste facilities. That is the best option available. Even many countries or cities now have dedicated e-waste recycling facilities. They are either run by private companies or a local government. For example, Best Buy is one of the popular e-waste recyclers. Power cord is one type of item they accept for recycling. It is wise to call the local e-waste recycler first before heading there and confirm if they accept cords for recycling or not. Because some of them only accept them when they come attached to a device such as with your desktop computer.

Hence, when you take your electronics to your local e-waste recycler be sure to take the cords with you. It will help you reduce the number of random cords lying around the house.

In case your city or country doesn’t have a dedicated e-waste recycler or such facility, there are chances that they might host an e-waste recycling event where you can bring in your e-waste. For this, you have to check with your local recycling facility or waste department. They may help you to find out if and when such events are taking place. Because there can be a manifold type of cords such as iec320 power cords, German Type Power Cord, Laptop Power Cord and so on.

Are Extension Cords Reusable?

Every extension or cord has its own purpose. Therefore, they aren’t too many ways you can reuse extension cords. The best way is to pass on to a friend who needs it or donating them to e-waste or thrift stores. Make sure that your cable isn’t getting hot when in use. Even if it seems that it isn’t working properly, pass it for the recycle process rather than passing it to anyone else.

How to Repair Extension Cords?

While it becomes tricky to reuse your cords, there might be a way of repairing them. If you do yard work with cords, there is a chance that you might’ve accidentally cut a cord. However, you can repair an extension cord. Although it is important that you do not splice a cut extension cord back together. Because it won’t have the abrasion resistance of a new cord. Instead of that, you can create two extension cords from the cut cord if both the ends are long enough. To do so, all you need is just a new plug to add t the cut end. This way you can repair your power cords. Even if they do not seem to be working, you can search for the cords online and you will have numerous options to choose from.

This article is originally Posted here; Is it possible to Recycle Power Cords?