HVAC Contributor
As with any other home item, you’ll eventually need to replace your air conditioner and dispose of your old one. However, throwing your air conditioner out with the trash is not only inefficient, but also technically prohibited. This is due to the fact that all air conditioners use a cooling refrigerant that contains ozone-depleting chemicals (ODS), which can deplete the ozone layer and contribute to global climate change.
We’ve put together an useful how-to guide with tips on how to recycle your air conditioning system as well as throwaway options to pick from so you can dispose of it responsibly.
Steps to Take Before Throwing Away or Recycling Your Air Conditioner
First and foremost, there are a few things you should take to protect the environment before recycling your air conditioning equipment. As previously noted, many devices include hazardous substances and components that must be disposed of legally. Before starting the disposal process, make sure you remove the following components from your air conditioner.
Panels and Doors Should Be Removed
Before recycling your air conditioning unit, remove any panels, doors, or covers to avoid small animals from being trapped inside.
To Remove The Refrigerant From The Air Conditioner, Use A Professional
Contact an HVAC technician to drain all refrigerant or coolant from your broken air conditioner before recycling it. You can also hire a rubbish removal service to remove your air conditioner without taking the necessary precautions.
In The Air Conditioner, Recycle The Tanks, Pipes, And Hoses
Any tubes, tanks, pipes, or hoses in your air conditioner should be recycled. These parts must be taken out of the system and recycled at a hazardous waste disposal facility. For additional information on the nearest hazardous waste facility, contact your local government or visit their website.
When Transporting Your Old Air Conditioner to A Recycling Facility, Be Cautious
It’s critical to be cautious when transporting your old air conditioner if you’re recycling it yourself. Moving them on your own can be exceedingly dangerous and result in damage; also, you don’t want to shatter any refrigerant lines or tubes, since this can be hazardous to the environment.
How to Recycle or Dispose of Your Air Conditioner
Bounty Schemes
There are several options for properly disposing of your air conditioner. To begin, contact your utility company and inquire about any available bounty programs. Next, inquire about whether they offer pickup of old appliances in your area, as well as any costs or regulations that may complicate your disposal. For recycling an old air conditioner, some energy companies may even give you a credit or a rebate on your payment.
Disposal And Recycling Programs That Are More Localized
If you’re disposing of your air conditioner yourself, contact your local sanitation authority for information on federal or state recycling rules. You may be required to transport your unit to a designated disposal place and take certain precautions, such as extracting refrigerant.
Shopkeepers
Contacting the appliance firm that will be replacing your old air conditioner is another option for disposing or recycling an air conditioning system on your home. When you buy a new air conditioner, several appliance stores may offer recycling and disposal services. When you recycle with them, they may even give you a discount on a new air conditioner or cash. Whether you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, ask the salesperson if they have any pickup and disposal options.
Charity
Finally, if your air conditioning system is still in good working order, you can donate it rather than recycle it. Look online to check if any charities, schools, elder centers, or places of worship in your neighborhood could benefit from an air conditioner. You not only help those in need when you donate to charity, but you also get a tax deduction.
I like how you mentioned that you should be aware of the components of your unit to prevent environmental damage. My cousin told me last night that he was planning to dispose of his old air conditioning unit because of 10 years of usage, and he asked if I had any idea what would be the best option to consider. Thanks to this instructive article, I’ll be sure to tell him that he can consult a well-known air conditioning recycling service as they can answer all his inquiries.