If you’re trying to dispose of an older appliance, such as a refrigerator or AC unit, you may have encountered issues related to a hazardous product they contain: CFCs. These chemicals, banned by the EPA, mean your appliances can’t be disposed of easily and require the use of special equipment and certification to be properly discharged. So, what are your options when it comes to disposal of appliances with CFCs in Massachusetts?
What are Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)?
Chlorofluorocarbons, also known as CFC or CFC5, are a class of gasses that are categorized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as an Ozone-Depleting Substance. The most common kind, R-12—commonly called Freon—was used as a refrigerant and can be found in appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers. These substances—along with hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)—form the primary ozone-depleted substances that were banned as part of the 1987 Montreal Protocol, an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer.
Disposing of Appliances with CFCs in MA
So, chemistry and history lesson aside, how do you deal with these “white goods” appliances that have restricted chemicals in them? Many white goods are already banned from MA landfills by waste disposal bans, and this includes all CFC-containing products. Instead, you’ll need to find a local company to dispose of them, including removing the CFCs. Make sure to ask for certification of CFC removal. Recycling Works Massachusetts has a list of appliance/white good recyclers, including junk haulers and donation centers, and you can find more options with RecycleSmartMA.org’s Beyond the Bin search.
Why NEDT Doesn’t Accept Appliances and CFCs
White goods that contain CFCs are big, bulky, and the CFCs—that must be removed with specialized equipment—make up a very small part of the appliance. NEDT does not accept them alongside all other white goods. These duties are best suited to junk haulers (who work with us with other hazardous waste). While NEDT does handle some bulky products, they are primarily electronics that fall into the eWaste category, everything from batteries to old CRT TVs. These items contain a large amount of hazardous materials and heavy metals while still being portable.
Thank you for doing your part to keep CFCs out of the air and the ozone layer. For other hazardous products, including cans of oil-based paint, mercury, and most forms of eWaste, we hope you’ll make the trip to us or use our pick-up program. Learn all the hazardous household products we accept and plan your trip today. If you want to ask any questions or schedule a pick-up, contact NEDT at 1.866.769.1621 or on our contact page.
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