Get matched with top waste removal pros in Georgetown, CA

The most affordable way to get rid of junk often involves a do-it-yourself approach, especially if you don't have a large amount of debris. Start by sorting your items into categories: donate, recycle, sell, or trash.

• Donate or Sell: Usable goods can be donated to local charities. You can also list items for free or for a low price on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.

• Use Municipal Services: Your city's regular garbage collection or bulk pickup days can be the cheapest option. However, be sure to check community guidelines for quantity limits and accepted materials. You can also take recyclables to a city drop-off center.

• Haul it Yourself: If you have a truck or suitable vehicle, loading the junk and taking it to a local transfer station, public dump, or waste disposal facility is a very cost-effective method.

If a DIY approach isn't possible, consider these options:

• Rent a Dumpster: You can rent a dumpster, fill it yourself, and the rental company will haul it away. This is a good middle-ground if you can do the labor but don't have a vehicle for transport.

• Hire a Junk Removal Service: While typically the most expensive choice, hiring a professional junk removal team is the most time-efficient and requires the least effort from you. This is a good solution if your city's services won't accept the items or if you are unable to move them yourself.

To drain a broken toilet, place towels or plastic sheeting around the base in case of splashing or overflowing. Next, shut off the toilet’s water supply, usually via a valve on the wall behind the toilet. Begin flushing the handle to remove as much water as possible from the tank and the bowl. Don’t flush the toilet if it’s clogged, though. From there, use a large sponge to soak up any remaining water and wring it over a bucket. 

When it’s time to dispose of your old AC unit, first make sure a pro helps you recover any refrigerant left in the system, per federal law (the Clean Air Act), according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 

Check with your city’s waste management department, or ask the retailer you purchased the new AC unit from if they take old units for recycling. Another option is to check for a Recycling Facilities Servicing partner of the EPA. These facilities are trained for proper refrigerant removal and AC unit disposal.

How you dispose of excess concrete depends on the amount you have left over. Since concrete hardens quickly, it's wise to have a disposal plan before starting your project. For small amounts, you can divide the extra concrete into manageable chunks. Because concrete isn't considered hazardous waste, these smaller pieces can often be placed in a dumpster. For larger quantities, you can rent a dumpster from a company that specializes in concrete disposal or take the material to a landfill or transfer station. It is important to call your preferred location first to confirm they accept concrete. Additionally, check with your municipality to see if it offers recycling services for solid concrete.