SPI Appliance Recycling Center at 918 SE 21st St, Des Moines, IA
SPI Appliance Recycling Center is a Des Moines scrap metal and appliance recycling facility at 918 SE 21st Street. Unlike auto salvage yards, this center focuses on recycling household appliances and scrap metal instead of selling vehicle parts.
They take refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, and other large appliances, along with copper, aluminum, steel, and other metals. The business doesn’t offer self-service part removal or u-pull-it operations for vehicles.
SPI works as a processing hub for recyclable materials, partnering with local dealers to maximize recovery. They follow proper disposal methods for hazardous components like refrigerants. The facility is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM and closed on weekends.
Services & What to Expect
SPI Appliance Recycling Center handles appliance and scrap metal recycling. Their work focuses on breaking down materials for reuse rather than selling parts to customers.
Appliance Recycling
The center accepts common household appliances, including:
- Refrigerators (refrigerant is removed before processing)
- Stoves and ovens
- Dishwashers
- Washing machines and dryers
- Microwaves and other small appliances
Appliances are dismantled to recover metal, plastic, and other recyclable parts. Hazardous materials like refrigerants are disposed of following environmental rules.
Scrap Metal Processing
SPI processes metals like:
- Copper (wiring, piping, and sheet metal)
- Aluminum (siding, cans, and automotive parts)
- Steel (appliance shells, scrap metal, and structural pieces)
- Other non-ferrous and ferrous metals
Metals are weighed, sorted, and prepared for recycling. The center often works with local dealers to sell materials at fair market prices.
Automotive Scrap (Limited)
While SPI isn’t an auto salvage yard, they do accept some automotive scrap, such as:
- Metal body panels and frames
- Engines and transmissions (for metal recovery)
- Other non-functional vehicle parts
Unlike u-pull-it yards, SPI doesn’t let customers remove parts from vehicles. Their focus is on recycling materials, not selling usable components.
What to Bring
When dropping off appliances or scrap metal, bring:
- A valid ID (if needed for the transaction)
- Proof of ownership (for appliances, if requested)
- Separated materials (metals sorted by type, if possible)
- Clean, empty appliances (remove food, liquids, or hazardous waste)
Staff will weigh and inspect materials before processing. Scrap metal prices are based on current market rates.
What They Don’t Accept
SPI does not take:
- Electronics (computers, TVs, or small gadgets)
- Tires or batteries (unless specified for metal recovery)
- Hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, or flammable materials)
- Working appliances (only broken or non-working units)
Always call ahead at 515-263-8000 to confirm what they’ll accept before visiting.
Location & Hours
SPI Appliance Recycling Center is at 918 Southeast 21st Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50317. The facility is in a commercial area near downtown Des Moines, with easy access from I-35 and other main roads.
Business Hours
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Directions & Parking
The yard is on Southeast 21st Street. Parking is available on-site for customers dropping off materials. Large vehicles (trucks or trailers) should use the designated unloading area.
Google Maps: View location on Google Maps
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to call ahead to drop off appliances or scrap metal?
No appointment is needed for most drop-offs. But calling ahead at 515-263-8000 is a good idea, especially for large loads or unfamiliar materials. This helps the staff process your items more efficiently.
How should I prepare appliances for recycling?
Clean out all food, liquids, and non-recyclable waste from appliances. Remove doors from refrigerators if possible to save space. Take out non-metal parts like glass or plastic that aren’t accepted. For refrigerators, make sure the refrigerant is removed—SPI can handle this if needed.
How are scrap metal prices set?
Scrap metal prices change based on market demand and recycling rates. SPI pays for metal based on weight and type (copper, aluminum, steel, etc.). Rates update often, so check their website or call for the latest pricing. Prices aren’t guaranteed and can vary by day.
Can I sell my junk car here?
SPI doesn’t buy junk cars or offer cash-for-cars services. If you need to get rid of an old vehicle, check out local junkyards that buy cars . These yards often provide free towing and pay for scrap cars based on weight and condition.
Are there fees for dropping off appliances?
SPI doesn’t charge fees for dropping off appliances or scrap metal. In fact, they often pay for metal scrap by weight. Large or bulky items might have extra handling fees, so confirm pricing before you go.
What happens to materials after I drop them off?
Appliances are taken apart to recover metal, plastic, and other recyclable parts. Metals are sorted, compacted, and sold to recycling facilities. Hazardous materials like refrigerants are disposed of safely. SPI works with local dealers to ensure materials are recycled properly and don’t end up in landfills.
Recent News & Updates
SPI Appliance Recycling Center remains a key recycling hub in Des Moines, focusing on processing appliances and scrap metal while following environmental rules. No major changes to services or hours have been reported recently.
For the latest updates, visit their website or check their social media. The facility keeps running smoothly, serving local residents and businesses with responsible recycling options.
