Eco-Friendly HVAC Recycling Strategies for Old Equipment

When it’s time to upgrade your HVAC system, how you dispose of the old equipment matters more than you might think. Sustainable HVAC disposal is good for the planet and reduces the overall environmental impact of keeping your home comfortable. Follow this guide on green HVAC disposal methods to ensure your old equipment doesn’t pollute the soil, water, or air.

The Importance of Eco-Conscious HVAC Equipment Disposal

Many heating and cooling components contain materials and chemicals that can harm the environment if mishandled. Properly disposing of your old HVAC system is crucial for environmental protection, and with help from a knowledgeable HVAC company, it’s no extra effort on your part. Sustainable disposal methods ensure potentially harmful materials are recycled or disposed of safely, minimizing the ecological footprint of your upgrade.

Recyclable HVAC Parts

Several HVAC system components can be reclaimed or recycled. These include:

• Metal components, such as steel, aluminum, brass, and copper parts found in compressors, motors, coils, and ductwork
• Furnace parts, including the burners, heat exchanger, and cabinet
• Air conditioning refrigerant
• Electrical components and plastic parts
• The cardboard boxes your new system came in

Where and How to Recycle HVAC Equipment

You have several options for recycling old HVAC units responsibly:

• Take the equipment to an appliance recycling center: These facilities are equipped to handle HVAC units, ensuring materials are recycled or disposed of safely. Fees may apply, but some facilities waive them to encourage recycling.
• Look into bounty programs: Some utility companies offer buy-backs or rebates for old HVAC units. They typically handle picking up and dropping off the unit for recycling.
• Donate or sell working equipment: If your old HVAC system is still functional, donate it to a charity, family member, or friend to keep it out of the landfill. You might also sell the unit for some extra cash.
• Leave it to a licensed HVAC contractor: Many heating and cooling companies offer equipment removal and recycling services when you install a new system. This way, you can sit back and relax while the contractor handles everything according to environmental regulations.

Challenges of Handling and Disposing Refrigerant

Air conditioning refrigerant is the biggest environmental threat of improperly disposed HVAC systems. As a restricted substance, refrigerant must be handled by a licensed technician in accordance with strict EPA guidelines. The removal and reclamation process ensures that harmful greenhouse gases are not released into the atmosphere, an important step for protecting the ozone layer.

Call Us for Environmentally Friendly HVAC Removal

Oregon Heating & Air Conditioning ensures the eco-friendly disposal of your old equipment when you install a new HVAC system through us. With 25 years of experience serving the Portland area, our commitment to sustainable practices and customer satisfaction has never wavered. We are licensed and insured for your peace of mind, with an A+ BBB rating to back us up. For the assurance that your old equipment is recycled responsibly, choose us for your next HVAC installation. Call 503-673-3265 today or contact us online for your free estimate.