Seasonal HVAC Upgrades? Here's Why You Should Recycle the Old Units
Why Seasonal HVAC Upgrades Are Common
HVAC systems are the backbone of building comfort, and many property managers choose to schedule upgrades or replacements seasonally—often just before peak summer cooling or winter heating demands.
Upgrading HVAC systems seasonally helps:
Improve energy efficiency and reduce utility costs
Maintain consistent indoor comfort for residents or employees
Avoid costly emergency repairs during high-demand seasons
But what happens to the old units? Without proper disposal, they can create environmental, financial, and regulatory challenges.
The Benefits of Recycling Old HVAC Units
Recycling old units is more than an eco-friendly choice—it’s also financially and operationally smart.
1. Recover Valuable Materials
Old HVAC systems contain metals like copper, aluminum, and steel that can be reclaimed, reducing overall project costs.
2. Reduce Disposal Fees
Landfill tipping fees for large HVAC units can add up quickly. Recycling minimizes or eliminates these fees.
3. Stay Compliant
Certified recycling ensures proper handling of refrigerants and hazardous materials, keeping your property compliant with EPA and local regulations.
4. Minimize Operational Disruption
Professional recycling providers coordinate bulk removal and decommissioning, keeping seasonal upgrades on schedule without inconveniencing tenants or staff.
Learn more about our HVAC recycling services here.
Case Example: Seasonal Upgrade Success
A multi-unit apartment complex in Texas scheduled its summer HVAC upgrades in May, just before peak cooling demand:
Old rooftop and in-unit HVAC systems were removed by a certified recycling provider
10,000+ pounds of metals were recovered, offsetting part of the replacement costs
Refrigerants were safely reclaimed and documented for compliance
Residents experienced no service interruptions during the phased removal
The result: efficient, compliant, and sustainable seasonal upgrades.
Best Practices for Recycling During Seasonal Upgrades
Plan in Advance
Schedule HVAC removal and recycling well before peak demand periods.Partner with Certified Providers
Ensure your provider is trained in refrigerant recovery, bulk removal, and compliance documentation.Coordinate Phases
For multi-unit buildings, phase upgrades to minimize downtime and maintain comfort in occupied spaces.Document Everything
Keep records for audits, compliance, and ESG reporting purposes.Communicate with Residents or Staff
Provide clear notices about upcoming work and any temporary impacts.
Environmental Advantages
Recycling old HVAC units during seasonal upgrades supports broader sustainability initiatives:
Prevents hazardous refrigerants from entering the atmosphere
Diverts metals and components from landfills
Contributes to corporate ESG reporting and green building certifications
Final Thoughts
Seasonal HVAC upgrades are essential for comfort, efficiency, and operational reliability—but old units don’t have to go to waste.
Recycling old HVAC equipment provides:
Cost savings through material recovery and reduced disposal fees
Compliance with environmental and safety regulations
Smooth, minimally disruptive upgrades for tenants or employees
Environmental benefits that align with sustainability goals
When planning your next seasonal HVAC upgrade, make recycling a priority, turning your old units into a resource rather than waste. Ready to learn more? Contact us today!