Are old household radiators worth anything as scrap?

Yes, as steel scrap. Each radiator is low value alone, but several drained radiators from a heating upgrade make a worthwhile collection.

Are car radiators worth more than household radiators?

Usually yes. Car copper-brass radiators contain valuable non-ferrous metal and are graded far above steel household radiators.

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Are Old Radiators Worth Anything as Scrap?

Steel household radiators and copper-brass car radiators live in different value worlds. Here is which you have.

26 September 2026 · By OJ Metal Recycling

The Short Answer

Household: Steel Rates. Car: Much Better.

The white panel radiators from a central heating upgrade are pressed steel — worth collecting, but at steel rates, so they earn in quantity rather than individually. Car radiators are a different animal: copper-brass construction with real non-ferrous value, graded far above household steel and sometimes eligible for weigh and pay.

Whichever you have, drain them fully first — water and sludge are deducted dead weight. Then check guide prices or call 07793 020266.

Know What You Have

Three Radiator Types, Three Values

Household panels

Pressed steel, often with valves and brackets attached. Low value each — but four or five drained panels from one job make a proper collection.

Car copper-brass

Older and performance car radiators with copper-brass cores. Genuinely valuable — keep plastic tanks and fans off and declare any damage.

Aluminium & modern

Modern cars and some electric heaters use aluminium cores with plastic tanks. Mid-range value — tanks off, graded as aluminium mix.

FAQs

Radiator FAQs

Should radiators be drained before collection?

Yes — fully. Water and sludge add deducted dead weight and make heavy panels miserable to move.

Can car radiators be weighed and paid for?

Copper-brass radiators may qualify for weigh and pay, paid by bank transfer — cash payment for scrap is illegal for licensed dealers.

Do you take radiators with valves attached?

Yes, but brass valves are worth saving separately where practical — see our brass guide.

How many radiators make a collection?

There is no fixed number — it depends on size, type and your postcode. Send photos and we will confirm; plumbers should see our trade portal for repeat work.

Keep Reading

Copper Cylinder ValuesWhat your cylinder is really worth.

Scrap Copper GuideCopper types and recycling value.

All Blog ArticlesTips, prices and collection advice.

Got Radiators to Shift?

Drained household sets, copper-brass car radiators and plumber clearances — all collected.

Request a Collection Call 07793 020266

Call now 07793 020266