Whether you have commercial HVAC scrap in Florida to deal with or are simply curious about the different ways you can use the materials, today we’re sharing some great options for you to consider. We’ll also cover the basics of HVAC recycling, what to look for in an air conditioning recycling company, how to scrap an air conditioner, and much more.
So, keep reading for the helpful answers you’ve been searching for!
HVAC Recycling: 101
We’ll begin by looking at the basics of commercial HVAC scrap in Florida and why recycling these materials is so important.
Types of HVAC scrap
There are many different types of commercial HVAC scrap. The most common include:
- AC condensers
- Compressors
- AC radiators
- Coils
- Copper wiring
The value will depend on the type and condition of the material, but the good news is that most commercial HVAC scrap has some value.
Uses for HVAC scrap
Next, let’s talk about what commercial HVAC scrap can be used for. The most common uses include:
- Recycled materials for new air conditioning systems
- Scrap metals for manufacturing purposes
- Raw materials for various commercial and industrial applications
- Reselling the parts to other commercial HVAC companies
- Harvesting copper from AC units, radiators, and condensers
Benefits of recycling scrap metal
However, there are many benefits to recycling, whether it’s HVAC scrap or another kind of scrap.
For example, by recycling commercial HVAC scrap, you can:
- Reduce landfill waste
- Conserve natural resources
- Earn Money
- Help reduce pollution levels
- Create jobs in the local community
Finding commercial HVAC scrap recyclers
When it comes to commercial HVAC scrap, your best bet is to find a reliable scrap metal recycling company in Florida. Make sure you do your due diligence when researching companies and look for those that offer competitive prices, have a good track record of customer service, and comply with environmental regulations.
Choosing an Air Conditioning Recycling Company in Florida
On that note, let’s dig deeper into the process of selecting commercial HVAC scrap recyclers. When choosing an air conditioning recycling company, it’s essential to find one that is reputable and reliable.
Some factors you should consider include the following:
Experience
You want to know if the commercial HVAC scrap recycling company you choose is knowledgeable and experienced. Ask potential companies how long they’ve been in business and if they have certifications or credentials to back up their experience.
Competitive Pricing
Price is usually a deciding factor when selecting commercial HVAC scrap recyclers, so be sure to ask for quotes from several companies before deciding. This helps you compare prices and find the best deal for your commercial HVAC scrap.
Services
Make sure you understand the services provided by the commercial HVAC scrap recycler you’re considering hiring. For example, do they offer pick-up services? Does their equipment allow them to handle different types of commercial HVAC scrap? Are they able to process the commercial scrap in an efficient and timely manner?
Job-site cleanliness
It’s also a good idea to inquire about the commercial HVAC scrap recycler’s job-site cleanliness. Will they leave your property in the same condition it was when they arrived? Do they practice safe and responsible recycling methods?
References
Finally, don’t forget to ask for references and check them out before making a decision. This will help ensure that you’re working with a commercial HVAC scrap recycler who is reliable, trustworthy, and knowledgeable.
How to Scrap an Air Conditioner
Now that we’ve looked at commercial HVAC scrap recycling in Florida, let’s take a look at how to safely remove copper from an AC unit and other air conditioners.
What You’ll Need To Scrap An Air Conditioner
To begin, you’ll need the following supplies:
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Screwdriver and or power drill
- Insulated wire cutters
- Hammer or crowbar
Step By Step: Taking Apart An Air Conditioner
Follow these steps to safely remove copper from your commercial HVAC scrap and other air conditioner units.
Call professionals to drain liquids
Right off the bat, it’s important to call a professional to drain any remaining liquids from the air conditioner. This is because these liquids can be hazardous (to you and to the environment) and should only be handled by experienced professionals.
Cut copper wires
Next, you’ll need to use insulated wire cutters to remove the copper wires carefully. Make sure all the wires are correctly labeled so they can be identified and reused in future projects or sold as commercial HVAC scrap.
Remove the steel
Now it’s time to take your power drill or crowbar and remove the steel from the air conditioner. Again, take extra care not to damage any copper wiring as you do this. During this step, take care to separate the plastic covers from the steel, as these can be recycled and reused.
Cut the copper tubing
Then, grab your cable cutters to snip the copper tubing that connects the unit to the radiator. Once this is done, the commercial HVAC scrap can be collected and taken to a recycler for further processing.
Take out the sealed unit
Now remove the sealed unit from the air conditioner. This is usually located inside the cabinet and consists of a compressor, fan motor, and condenser coil. The sealed unit will be the heaviest item you remove during this process, usually between 15 and 20 pounds.
Remove the motor and radiators
With your power drill or screwdriver, take apart the motor and radiators from the commercial HVAC scrap. Again, take care not to damage any copper wiring in this process.
Remove and disassemble the power supply
In this step, you’ll need to use your screwdriver to remove and disassemble the power supply from the commercial HVAC scrap. This is a critical step, as this part contains commercial-grade copper wiring that can be recycled or resold. It will also have circuit boards and other valuable items.
Remove and clean the ACRs
You’ll then need to remove the aluminum/copper radiators (ACRs) from the unit. There should be two of them: a larger one and a smaller one. Then, learn how to clean them here.
Collect your valuable commercial HVAC scrap in Florida
Now that you’ve taken apart your AC unit, it’s time to collect all of the valuable metals you’ve collected. Sort them into piles by metal type and take your commercial HVAC scrap to a reliable scrap recycler in Florida.
Above all, remember to keep safety as the top priority while scrapping commercial HVAC scrap or any other air conditioner unit. Be sure to follow all of the rules your local Department of Environmental Protection put in place and wear proper safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, and respirators. That way, you can get the best price for your commercial HVAC scrap and also protect yourself from injury.
Other Scrap Metal Safety Tips
Whether you’re dealing with commercial HVAC scrap in Florida or another type of scrap metal, there are some essential safety tips you should always keep in mind to ensure your safety and the protection of the environment.
- Make sure you properly disconnect any electrical sources before attempting to remove them from commercial HVAC scrap or other scrap metal.
- Utilize insulated wire cutters when cutting copper wires to avoid electric shocks.
- Wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles when handling commercial HVAC scrap or other materials.
- Be sure to call a professional if you’re unsure how to safely take apart commercial HVAC scrap or other air conditioner units.
- Remember to recycle responsibly so all commercial HVAC scrap is disposed of correctly.
By following these safety tips, you can rest assured that commercial HVAC scrap in Florida will be handled responsibly and properly recycled. Additionally, you’ll be able to make sure that any hazardous materials are disposed of safely and won’t contribute to environmental pollution.
Lastly, always remember to get the best price for your commercial HVAC scrap by taking it to a reliable recycler so you can maximize your profit potential.
Why Choose Scrap Gators?
With all of the above tips and information in mind, Scrap Gators is one commercial HVAC scrap recycler you can trust. We are a family-owned company with a history of over 100 years of scrap metal recycling. We take pride in our excellent customer service, competitive pricing, and commitment to environmental sustainability (we donate or recycle about 70% of what we pick up!).
Recap
When you’re ready to collect commercial HVAC scrap in Florida, make sure to call a professional for safe draining, cut the copper wires carefully, remove steel with caution (separating plastic from steel), cut the copper tubing, remove and disassemble the power supply and sealed unit, take out aluminum/copper radiators (ACRs), then take your commercial HVAC scrap to a reliable recycler.
Scrap Gators is here to help you with all these steps and provide advice and assistance with environmental sustainability when it comes to scrap metal.
We specialize in HVAC, aerospace, manufacturing, and large equipment scrap removal, but there is no job that we can’t handle. So, if you’re hoping to sell scrap metal or have it picked up on the Treasure Coast, Space Coast, or Palm Beach, FL., area, call us today!
