How to Get Rid of an Old TV in Gatineau
An old TV isn't ordinary waste. CRT screens contain lead, LCDs contain mercury, and even modern models contain hazardous materials that must be removed before disposal. Here's exactly how to get rid of one properly in Gatineau.
Why TVs get separate treatment
An old CRT (tube) TV can contain up to 4 kg of lead in the screen glass. Newer LCD models contain mercury in the backlights, and LEDs contain valuable rare earth metals. All of these can be recovered OR contaminate the environment, depending on where the TV ends up.
In Quebec, the ARPE-Québec program covers all TVs at no cost. It's funded by manufacturers — you pay nothing to have a screen properly recycled, regardless of age or condition.
CRTs are also very heavy: a 27-inch tube TV easily weighs 35–50 kg, making it nearly impossible to transport alone. That's why at-home pickup often makes more sense than hauling to an eco-centre.
Your free options in Gatineau
1. ARPE-Québec drop-off points: Best Buy, Staples, Canadian Tire, Brault & Martineau, and other retailers in Gatineau accept TVs free of charge, no purchase required. Full list at recyclermeselectroniques.ca.
2. City of Gatineau eco-centres: all accept TVs from residents (proof of residency required). Convenient if you're going there for something else anyway.
3. Donation: if the TV still works and isn't too old (LED under 7 years), it can be donated to La Ressourcerie d'Aylmer, Renaissance, or families via free Facebook Marketplace.
4. Trade-in at purchase: if you buy a new TV, many retailers will take the old one. Ask at order time.
At-home pickup (paid option, hassle-free)
If you have multiple screens (old PC + living room TV + basement TV) or a CRT too heavy to transport, our junk removal service in Gatineau comes to you. We get the TV out regardless of which floor and route it to the right ARPE recycling centre.
Convenient if you're also clearing out other unwanted items: furniture, appliances, renovation debris. It all goes in the same trip. Request a free quote — the price is confirmed on-site before we start.
What to avoid
Never put a TV at the curb with regular trash. It'll be left on-site, you risk a fine, and you waste the free recycling potential.
Don't try to take a TV apart yourself. CRTs hold a dangerous residual electrical charge even after weeks unplugged. LCD screens have fragile mercury-containing fluorescent tubes.
Don't dump a TV in an alley or near a commercial bin. That's illegal dumping and carries hefty fines.
An old TV sitting in a closet or basement for years is usable space you're not getting back. Drop it at a free ARPE point, or call us if you just want it gone without having to move it.