How Should Refrigerators Be Disposed of Properly?

How Should Refrigerators Be Disposed of Properly?
4 min read
18 November 2022

We get many questions about why we cannot throw fridges, freezers, and air conditioners in dumpsters. They are incredibly harmful to the environment and must be safely disposed of.

Are these Appliances Harmful to You?

Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) is used in refrigerators and freezers before 1995. Refrigerators and air conditioners made before 2010 have a different chemical called hydrochlorofluorocarbon, or HCFC. Refrigerant is a substance that cools things down. The heating fan, cooling system, or fan converts it into gas. The vapor is then condensed into a liquid. It is also known as the refrigeration cycle.

CFCs, HCFCs, and other substances that damage the ozone layer can contribute to global climate change. They can find in old refrigerators and air conditioners. These appliances are now made with CFCs, which are ozone-friendly. However, HCFCs can still be potent greenhouse gases and should be properly disposed of.

Foam from old refrigerators and freezers can cause ozone depletion, climate change, and other problems.

What's mercury?

Mercury and its dangers are something you may have heard many times. Mercury, a poisonous substance, can be found in many household appliances. In addition, mercury can be found in household appliances such as ozone-destructive oils and polychlorinated triphenyl (or PCBs). The toxic and carcinogenic effects of PCBs (cancer-causing) are both serious.

It can find in hazardous components in electronic devices, such as oil in cooling circuits and mercury in switches, relays, and capacitors. However, it can quickly dispose of this.

What harm could you do to oil and mercury?

You can avoid any severe consequences by disposing of them properly. These oils can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract if they aren't properly disposed of. These oils can also cause damage to your liver, brain, and immune system. These oils can also be found in the soil and contaminate groundwater.

Mercury, a dangerous substance, can build up in animals and plants. These substances can cause health problems in people who eat them. Mercury vapor can seriously threaten your health. Mercury vapor can cause damage to your lungs, kidneys, and other organs. Mercury can even cause death.

What can I do to dispose of these Appliances (Freezers and Refrigerators)?

There are many methods to recycle hazardous materials.

Call your electric company. You may be eligible for discounts or rebates from your electric company for purchasing newer models that are more efficient.

Many retailers offer to recycle old appliances when you purchase a new machine.

You can recycle old appliances by looking for a program in your area. However, before you can recycle your old devices, it is vital to remove all refrigerant parts. You can search for an HVAC company or a refrigeration company.

Your local dumpster rental company can answer any waste disposal questions. These items can be disposed of by most companies for a small charge or referred to the appropriate program in your locality. This Dumpster Rental Wareham MA will provide you with a quote for your dumpster rental.

Is there a fee to recycle a refrigerator?

Most things related to recycling are free. Most often, your local municipality will have accessible collections. In addition, many energy companies will usually offer to donate the materials or give you money or other incentives.

Only use licensed professionals who use approved refrigerant removal equipment.

Conclusion

It is not a good idea to throw away your fridge, freezer, or air conditioner unit. It can cause damage to the environment and be dangerous for people. Instead, it is best to contact someone to have it removed. In addition, it is more accessible, more eco-friendly, and cheaper to recycle old appliances.

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John Bennett 8
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