What should you do with refrigerants before disposing of an old AC unit?

Recovering and recycling refrigerants properly is a critical step in the disposal of an old AC unit for several reasons. Refrigerants are potentially harmful to the environment, particularly those that are ozone-depleting substances (ODS) such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). The proper procedure for refrigerant disposal involves using specialized recovery equipment to extract the refrigerants from the AC unit before it is dismantled or discarded.

When refrigerants are recovered, they can then be either recycled for reuse in new systems or disposed of in a manner that minimizes environmental impact, adhering to regulations set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This practice helps in reducing harmful emissions, preserving the ozone layer, and complying with federal regulations concerning refrigerant management.

In contrast, releasing refrigerants into the atmosphere, dumping them in regular waste, or simply storing them without recovery and recycling is not compliant with legal requirements and poses significant environmental risks. Proper handling ensures that harmful substances do not contribute to air pollution or climate change. Thus, recovering and recycling refrigerants is not only a best practice but also a legal obligation for technicians in the field.