Specialized parts that can be sold to repair shops. 3. Vintage Enthusiasts and Restorers

Many people buy old units specifically to serve as a "garage fridge" or "beer fridge," where aesthetics matter less than cooling capacity. 2. Scrap Metal Recyclers

Small-scale appliance technicians often buy old units to "part them out." Since manufacturers stop producing parts for older models after a certain number of years, a broken fridge can serve as a goldmine for hard-to-find sensors, thermostats, and compressors needed to fix other customers' machines.

Some buyers look for specific brands like Frigidaire or GE for their iconic rounded aesthetics and heavy-duty builds.