Electrical equipment – disposal under ElektroG/WEEE
Waste electrical and electronic equipment contains valuable raw materials but may also contain substances harmful to health and the environment. This information is intended for private households and explains separate collection under the German Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (ElektroG).
Electrical equipment does not belong in household waste
Dispose of worn-out electrical equipment separately from other waste. The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol identifies equipment that must not be disposed of with household waste.
Before returning equipment
- Remove used batteries that are not enclosed within the equipment, and lamps that can be removed without damage. Return these separately to the designated collection points. Exceptions apply where equipment is specifically prepared for reuse.
- You are responsible for deleting personal data from old equipment, such as saved accounts, photos or login details.
- Be aware of the fire and short-circuit risks of lithium batteries. Tape over accessible battery terminals and tell trained staff about damaged batteries. Further information is available on our battery page.
Where to return old equipment
Private households can return old equipment free of charge to public waste management collection points, such as municipal recycling centres. Retailers legally required to take back equipment also offer return options.
At retailers subject to take-back obligations, you can return an equivalent old appliance free of charge when buying a corresponding new one. Small appliances whose external dimensions do not exceed 25 cm each can also be returned there without a new purchase; the statutory rule is limited to three old appliances per equipment type. Details, including the rules for distance selling, are set out in Section 17 ElektroG.
You can find a suitable collection point using the E-waste return locator. Ask the relevant collection point about opportunities to reuse working equipment as well.
Questions about a GLANDIUM product?
Write to us using the contact form or at m2m.anfrage@gmail.com. Please include the product and your question where possible, so we can advise you on a suitable return or disposal option.