Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

Document and Entity Information

 v2.3.0.11
Document and Entity Information
6 Months Ended
Jul. 02, 2011
Aug. 15, 2011
Document and Entity Information    
Entity Registrant Name APPLIANCE RECYCLING CENTERS OF AMERICA INC /MN  
Entity Central Index Key 0000862861  
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Period End Date Jul. 02, 2011
Amendment Flag false  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes  
Entity Filer Category Smaller Reporting Company  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   5,492,777
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2011  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q2