Recycling is, of course, a very hot topic these days, and you may do your best to play your part in saving the planet. Yet, did you know that you may be able to make some spare cash from your efforts if you focus on one particular metal? Why should you be on the lookout for copper, and where can you find it?

Copper Availability

As you may know, copper is a metal with a reddish to gold appearance and is used in many places due to its malleability. It's a very good conductor of heat and electricity and can be found in a number of electrical gadgets, as well as in other places.

Electrical Items

If you're in the market for some new household appliances and want to recycle the old ones, have a look inside first. You will probably see a lot of thick, insulated copper wire, especially in larger appliances like refrigerators or conditioners.

Also, you may be in the market for a new TV or computer. As you know, you cannot really sell them for too much money these days, and the best option is simply to recycle them. Once again, however, have a look inside and separate out your metals. Dive into the computer tower or monitor, and you will notice a lot of insulated copper wire supplying the power and within circuit boards and connectors. It will be relatively easy to remove.

Copper in Vehicles

If your car has been a bit reluctant to fire up recently, perhaps it is time for a new starter or alternator? Of course, you can take the old parts to a wrecker's yard, but you can remove some of the copper first. Both starter motors and alternators are wound in copper wire, and while this may be a bit more challenging to remove than its counterpart within your TV, it may nevertheless be worth your while.

Plumbing

Most modern homes today have plumbing that is made from state-of-the-art materials. Older houses may, however, still have copper pipes. If you ever get around to updating your household plumbing, make sure that you talk with your plumber and retain the old piping.

Forgotten Pieces

Finally, look in your attic to see if there are any old utensils, pots or pans that may be made from copper.

Counting It All up

When you start looking properly, you may be surprised at what you can find. Gather together all of your scrap copper and see how much cash you can make. For more information about earning cash for copper, talk to a local buyer or recycling center.

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