Does anyone know how/where to get rid of old pots & pans? I feel guilty just putting it in the Kerichtsack and I'm not sure if it could just drop it at the aluminum/metal recycling because they're big and it does really fit.

Thanks in advance for your suggestions..

Given the amount of metal and bad stuff you should most definitely not just put them in the Kehrichtsack (or rubbish bag for our many forum readers who do not speak German). Usually there should be something written on the recycling information supplied by your community for "Kleinmetal" (small metal). In my case I have to take it to collection point nominated and they will take it. I think there is a very small charge depending on the weight, but at least you won't have to feel guilty

I don't know how things work in your neck of the woods, but down here most towns have a local tip/dump/decheterie where you can take most things that don't fit under the kitchen sink. They usually have a skips for metal, building materials, wood , garden stuff, branches, used oil and a red cross collection point etc etc
Details should be in your local community magazine/info handout
Hope that helps ,
Nick

hello mark & nickj.. thanks for the answers! the first thing i actually did today was look for these community broschures/handouts they hand-in when you move! of course i didn't find them (i usually throw paper stuff).
so, i just went out walking with my pans until i found (oh, i did have a few stops to ask where it really is)-- it was quite a long walk, but at least the disposal was free in our community!