Electrical device
Confidence: high · Place: Germany · Last checked: September 2026
Warning: Securely erase data to protect personal information.
Elektroschrott collection point (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment collection point)Why
- Hard drives contain harmful substances such as heavy metals and flame retardants and are classified as electrical waste.
- Electrical devices must not be disposed of in general waste or recycling bins.
- They must be taken to an Elektroschrott collection point or returned to a retailer.
Some local authorities offer additional collection dates or mobile collection points.
varies by local authorityBefore you throw it away
- Securely and completely erase data.
- Place the hard drive in a cardboard box or plastic bag.
- Take it to the nearest Elektroschrott collection point.
What you can make from it
External hard drive
- Erase data and format the hard drive.
- Clean the enclosure.
- Install in an external enclosure or make a DIY enclosure.
Metal enclosure as jewellery or tool holder
- Remove screws and circuit boards from the enclosure.
- Clean the surface and paint if necessary.
- Attach to a wall or workbench.