Got a tangle of old cables or leftover wiring from a renovation project? Don’t toss it—scrap wire is a valuable resource in the recycling world. Whether it’s copper, aluminum, or insulated wire, recycling scrap wire is both eco-friendly and profitable. This guide breaks down the types of scrap wire, how it's recycled, and how much you can expect to earn from it.
???? What Is Scrap Wire?
Scrap wire refers to any discarded electrical wire or cable, usually made from metals like copper or aluminum and often coated in insulation. Common sources include:
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Electrical wiring from homes and buildings
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Extension cords and power cables
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Automotive wiring harnesses
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Network and phone cables
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Appliance cords and old electronics
???? Types of Scrap Wire
The value of scrap wire depends largely on the metal inside and the condition of the insulation:
| Wire Type | Description | Metal Inside | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bare Bright Copper | Clean, uncoated copper wire | Copper | High |
| #1 Insulated Copper Wire | Thick insulation, single strand copper | Copper | Moderate to High |
| #2 Insulated Copper Wire | Thinner wires, more insulation | Copper | Moderate |
| Communication Wire | Phone or Ethernet cables | Copper | Lower |
| Aluminum Wire | Often from power cables | Aluminum | Lower |
???? Bare bright copper wire brings the highest price due to its purity.
???? How Much Is Scrap Wire Worth?
Wire prices fluctuate based on metal markets, but here are some general ranges (per kilogram):
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Bare Bright Copper: $5.00 – $7.00
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#1 Insulated Copper: $3.50 – $5.00
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#2 Insulated Copper: $2.00 – $3.50
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Aluminum Wire: $0.80 – $1.50
Note: Insulated wire is usually priced lower unless stripped.
♻️ Why Recycle Scrap Wire?
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Environmental Impact: Keeps non-biodegradable materials out of landfills and reduces the need for raw mining.
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Economic Benefit: You can earn cash for something you'd otherwise throw away.
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Energy Savings: Recycling copper uses up to 85% less energy than mining and processing new copper.
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Declutter: Perfect for cleaning out garages, workshops, or old job sites.
???? Tips to Maximize Value
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Sort Your Wire: Separate copper from aluminum and categorize by type.
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Strip the Insulation: If you have a large volume, stripping the wire can significantly increase its value.
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Use a Wire Stripper: For big loads, consider investing in or renting a wire stripping machine.
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Keep It Clean: Remove dirt, tape, and non-metal parts to avoid downgrades in pricing.
???? Where to Sell Scrap Wire
To get the most for your wire, contact:
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Local scrap yards
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Metal recycling centers
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Electrician and contractor recycling programs
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Online platforms like Japan Scrap (especially if you’re in the UAE and need pickup services)
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a contractor with leftover job site wiring or just cleaning out old electronics, scrap wire has real value. With a little sorting and preparation, you can turn a pile of old cables into easy cash—and do your part for the planet while you’re at it.
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