How to Properly Dispose of an Air Conditioner

What to Do with Your Old AC Unit

Getting a new air conditioner means better comfort, greater energy efficiency, and hopefully lower utility bills. But once your new system is up and running, how do you get rid of the old AC?

Air conditioners can’t just be tossed on the curb with regular trash. They contain refrigerant and other components that require special handling. Whether you’re replacing a central AC system, a window unit, or a ductless mini-split, it’s important to dispose of it properly.

Let’s walk through what happens to your old AC when a new one is installed, when you might be responsible for hauling it away, and where you can take it if you are.

Most HVAC Companies Will Haul Away Your Old Unit

If you're having a new central air conditioner or heat pump professionally installed, your HVAC installer almost always handles the removal of the old unit as part of the job. This includes safely recovering any remaining refrigerant, disconnecting the electrical and line set, and hauling away the equipment for proper disposal or recycling.

In fact, technicians need to be certified under the Environmental Protection Agency’s Section 608 Technician Certification to handle refrigerants, which are tightly regulated due to their environmental impact.

Before your install, it’s worth double-checking with your HVAC company to confirm that disposal is included (it usually is).

When a Homeowner Might Need to Handle Disposal

There are a few scenarios where you, the homeowner, might need to take care of getting rid of an old air conditioner:

• You removed a window or portable AC yourself. If you’re upgrading or no longer need a window unit, these smaller systems often aren’t covered by HVAC installers or home improvement stores. You’ll need to take care of disposal or recycling.
• You did a DIY central AC replacement. Some homeowners with HVAC experience may choose to remove or replace their own systems, especially in rental properties or outbuildings. In this case, the responsibility for safe refrigerant recovery and disposal falls to you.
• Your HVAC company charges extra for haul-away. While rare, some contractors may charge a fee for removing the old unit or may leave it on site if not requested. Always ask ahead of time what’s included in the quote. 
• You found or inherited an old unit. Whether from a previous homeowner or a property cleanout, you may have an unused AC unit sitting around that needs to be responsibly disposed of.

How to Legally and Safely Dispose of an Air Conditioner

Once it’s your responsibility, here’s how to go about properly getting rid of an AC unit:

1. Never Put it in the Trash

Air conditioners contain refrigerants like R-22 or R-410A, which are harmful to the ozone layer and require EPA-certified recovery. It’s illegal in many areas to throw an AC in the garbage, and waste collectors often won’t take it anyway.

2. Find a Local Appliance Recycling Program

Many cities and counties have appliance recycling programs that accept AC units, especially during the spring and summer months. Some utilities or municipalities even offer pickup services for a small fee – or even a rebate for turning in an old system.

Search your local sanitation department’s website for appliance recycling info, or use the EPA's Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) directory to find partners near you.

3. Take It to a Metal Recycler

If the refrigerant has already been properly recovered (which must be done by a certified technician), you may be able to take the unit to a scrap metal recycling center. AC units contain valuable metals like copper and aluminum, so some facilities will even pay a small amount for them.

Always call ahead to confirm they accept AC units and ask what’s required before dropping it off.

4. Hire a Junk Removal Service

If you don’t have the means to transport the old unit or want it gone quickly, a local junk removal company can help. Some companies specialize in eco-friendly disposal and will ensure the unit is recycled or processed according to local laws. Be sure to ask whether they handle refrigerants, or if that needs to be done beforehand.