What type of refrigerants should be collected separately?

Collecting different types of refrigerants separately is essential for several reasons, particularly regarding environmental safety and regulatory compliance. Refrigerants can vary significantly in their composition, properties, and impacts on the environment. By separating them, technicians can ensure that they are properly disposed of or reclaimed in a manner that adheres to regulations set forth by the EPA and other governing bodies.

Each refrigerant type may have different global warming potentials and ozone depletion potentials, meaning that mishandling or mixing them can lead to increased environmental harm. Additionally, improper handling can affect the efficiency of recovery systems and lead to contamination, making it harder to recycle or reclaim the refrigerants safely.

Collecting refrigerants separately allows for more effective recycling and reuse, ultimately supporting sustainability efforts in the HVAC industry. It also helps maintain compliance with laws aimed at protecting the ozone layer and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.