Inevitably, the time will come for you to replace your outdated or malfunctioning HVAC unit. Besides thinking about making the necessary changes to accommodate the new unit, you should also consider how to dispose of your old unit responsibly. That’s because HVAC units contain chemicals that can be unkind to the environment. Keep reading to learn more about HVAC disposal.

Proper Disposal Options

It’s illegal to leave your old HVAC system in the trash. When installing a new system, a responsible heating and air conditioning contractor will not only remove your old equipment but also haul it away from your home and recycle it for parts.

To properly dispose of a system, HVAC technicians are required by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) to reclaim the refrigerant from the unit. Leftover refrigerant can deplete the ozone layer if allowed to evaporate. The technicians must carry a license to show they can perform safe reclamation.

What if your HVAC contractor doesn’t handle the removal and disposal process? There are several other options you can use to recycle your old unit responsibly, some of which may charge a fee. These include:

  • Dedicated recycling facilities
  • Local hazardous waste disposal or public works facilities
  • Electric utility companies offering bounty programs
  • Scrap metal companies

Recyclable Items

Quite a number of HVAC parts can be recycled. However, all the system materials will have to be separated and sorted before being placed in individual bins for recycling. That calls for the right tools, welding experience, and time.

Some of the recyclable components are:

  • Coils
  • Motors
  • Sheet metal
  • Compressors
  • Cardboard boxes
  • Furnaces
  • Copper tubing
  • Brass fittings
  • Metal ductwork

A few parts can’t be recycled, such as:

  • Tiny plastic components
  • Fiberboard
  • Flex duct
  • Capacitors

Your old HVAC system is hazardous waste. Be sure to do whatever you can to ensure safe HVAC disposal and significantly reduce its risk of contaminating the environment. If you’re looking for an environmentally conscious HVAC company in Central New Jersey, contact Aggressive Mechanical Contractors. We can help you increase your HVAC system’s efficiency and choose the newest energy-saving equipment to lower your household’s carbon footprint.