You can navigate directly to the Earth911 search page at https://search. earth911. com/?utm_source=earth911-header&utm_medium=top-navigation-menu&utm_campaign=top-nav-recycle-search-button. Alternatively, you can conduct an Earth911 search by phone at 1-800-CLEANUP.
If you live in a major metropolitan area, your odds of finding nearby eligible recyclers will likely improve. Otherwise, you may need to be willing to travel possibly 50 mi (80 km) or more.
In some cases, the recycler may pay you for the valuable materials that make up the A/C unit, especially the copper tubing and the refrigerant. Alternatively, you may have to pay a fee to have the unit recycled. It all depends on the market where you live and any subsidies or taxes that may be levied.
Keep the unit upright while lifting, carrying, and transporting it. Otherwise, the unit may leak coolant, lubricants, or other fluids.
In New York City, for example, you can request this service via online form on the Department of Sanitation website. [7] X Research source If you don’t have to stick a special tag on the A/C, you may want to add a “Does Not Work” note to the unit so no one else lugs it home in expectation of getting a “free” A/C.
Call your local utility provider or visit its website. If they offer rebates and/or pickups, you’ll probably have to fill out an online form and provide proof that you’ve purchased a more energy-efficient replacement unit.
You’ll probably be responsible for delivering the A/C unit, especially if you’re not buying one from the retailer.
Call the retailer before the delivery date, rather than waiting to ask the delivery crew directly.
When selling appliances or other large items, you’re better off using a seller website that connects you with local buyers. That way, you don’t have to worry about shipping a heavy window A/C.
You may get a better deal if you arrange for the hauler to take away a lot of other junk as well.
No one might pick up your A/C, and you may end up having to drag the A/C back to your home. Even worse, you may be cited or fined for putting out an item that isn’t legal for trash pickup. You have no idea whether the person who picks up the A/C will recycle it properly. When improperly recycled, A/C refrigerants are particularly bad for the environment.
You may be stuck without a free or cheap option for getting rid of your old A/C unit. Accept that you have a responsibility to make sure it is disposed of properly.
