So,
I AM somewhat of an environmentalist but I had a realization over the past few years:
ALL of the refrigerant that has ever been produced (or will be produced), whether it be R12, R134a, or any of the other (non-automotive) stuff WILL EVENTUALLY END UP IN THE ATMOSPHERE.
Think about it: Why do we have to repair and recharge systems? Because the refrigerant escaped...into the atmosphere.
I figure that prolonging this process (by recycling it instead of venting it) probably is beneficial (gives the atmosphere time to process it slowly, maybe...I don't know). But my main point is that it's kind of a "now or later" scenario. It's all going to get vented eventually...one way or the other.
Clem
Except that any refrigerant that can be properly reclaimed can be recycled and re-used, so the more we save the less we use.
It would be nice if people would stick to facts in a discussion like this. For instance:
"BTW... R134a is much more toxic than R12. "
That has never been proven.
If anyone wants to talk the truth instead of political crap, let me know.
bravenrace wrote:
Except that any refrigerant that can be properly reclaimed can be recycled and re-used, so the more we save the less we use.
TRUE...I wasn't thinking about the fact that less NEW refrigerant will be produced if we recycle more of the existing stuff.
Thanks for that nudge!
I have yet to find a shop who will "take" my old R12 or R134a without charging me for the convenience. I figured any A/C shop would be thrilled to get free supplies but they aren't interested.
slefain wrote:
I have yet to find a shop who will "take" my old R12 or R134a without charging me for the convenience. I figured any A/C shop would be thrilled to get free supplies but they aren't interested.
I figured (hoped) this would come up.
The labor involved is expensive. R134a is probably so cheap they don't even want to risk getting some contaminated old stuff in their system.
I would expect to pay for this service, and if they didn't charge me, I'd consider it a nice gesture (aimed at getting more business from me).
Clem
