Because a portable air conditioner contains refrigerants, metals and other materials that can be harmful to the environment, proper recycling is essential. Follow these steps to recycle your portable air conditioner in a sustainable and safe manner.
Why Recycling Matters
Portable air conditioners rely on the use of refrigerants (such as R-410A or old R-22) which can damage the environment if they escape into the atmosphere. These compounds have greenhouse gases and contribute to Ozone formation depletion. It mitigates harmful chemical exposure as the harmful substances released during manufacturing are handled properly during recycling, and also other essential materials like copper, aluminum, and plastic are reused for new electronic devices, which minimizes new resources.
Contact The Waste Management Facility Nearby You
Appliances that contain refrigerants will usually have specific guidelines by local waste management or recycling centers. Other places can take care of air conditioners and either recycle it for you or send you to a place that can do it immediately as well. Their website or a quote should provide this information, or you can always call and ask about their appliance recycling.
TIP: Many cities will pick up old appliances for free or a low fee, especially if you have them out on the curb on the right days for special recycling events.
Search for Retail Take-Back Programs
Large big-box retailers with recycling programs — including Best Buy and Lowe’s — may also accept your portable air conditioner as part of their small appliances programs. Several of those programs feature a drop-off choice, which is to mention that you can deliver the unit immediately to the shop. Note, there might be a modest charge, particularly if they have to remove refrigerant.
NOTE: Not all retailers take these units, so call ahead and double-check before heading to your local store.
Contact an Appliance Recycling Professional
There are companies that specialize in recycling appliances and they know how to get rid of the refrigerants properly. Some may even charge a fee to pick you up. Specialized appliance recycling firms will make sure the unit is taken apart for parts recycling and have had any hazardous items removed without danger.
Advantages: This method helps ensure compliance with environmental regulations and is appropriate when local facilities lack the infrastructure necessary to process refrigerants.
Contact the Manufacturer
Then there are manufacturers that support take-back or recycling programs. Contact the brand customer service of your air conditioner and ask if they have a recycling or disposal program in-place. In some instances, they may even pay the shipping price or give you a percentage off your next bill as an incentive.
Look into municipal or utility programs
Many cities and utility companies have established air conditioning recycling programs especially during times of high demand such as summer months. They may also offer rebates or credits on utility bills to those who turn in older, less efficient units. Looking for these types of deals? Try your utility company site or your local recycling division.
Hiring a metal scrap yard or any other metal recyclers in local place
Some scrap yards or metal recyclers will take it if your portable AC no longer has refrigerant in it. Those centers will recycle metal parts — copper coils, aluminum and steel. But if it still contains refrigerant, then you should bring it by a certified technician to dispose of the refrigerant first.
Pro tip: Call before you go to make sure they take air conditioners (some require proof of refrigerant removal).
Final Thoughts
It is not simply the law that you have to abide to when recycling your portable air conditioner; choosing to save the environment is a great choice as well. If your city area has local waste management options, you can always opt for your nearby store take-back program, or even a professional recycling service — there are many ways to be responsible! And, with every step you take, you will minimize the waste that ends up in landfills; save precious materials; and avoid toxic fumes from the compounds being liberated into the environment.
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