When it comes to removing old HVAC units, there’s no two ways about it: you need a certified professional. Not only is improper disposal dangerous, it’s also illegal because HVAC units, particularly older models, contain a variety of hazardous chemicals and materials.
One such chemical is freon, which is a dangerous refrigerant that displaces oxygen, causing asphyxiation and heart issues if inhaled. In the case of liquid freon, exposure can cause severe frostbite and/or burns. But freon isn’t only dangerous for people, it also causes serious damage to the environment.
While freon is now banned, there are still many units in use that contain it. And that’s just one reason you need a professional to perform your HVAC removal. It’s a specialized process that should only be undertaken by a licensed technician.
The Four Steps to HVAC Removal
1) Recovering the Refrigerant: This step involves trapping the refrigerant in either an outdoor condenser or using a recovery machine to remove it completely from the unit.
2) Disconnecting the Power: The technician then turns off the power to the unit from the main electrical breaker.
3) Cutting the Lines: In this step, the technician will cut or disconnect any refrigerant lines, remaining power cables, or thermostat wires.
4) Extracting the Unit: The HVAC unit is then separated from any ductwork and mounting brackets so it can be safely removed from the home.
There are several options for the safe disposal of HVAC units, ranging from having a junk removal company take it away to having a contractor take it when they install your new unit. Either way, HVAC removal is a complicated and potentially dangerous process, and it should only be handled by licensed professionals.
Have an HVAC unit you’d like removed? We’d love to help. Call our team at Move It! Hauling & Junk Removal LLC today for more information.