Recovered refrigerants can be a money-maker for contractors

An important part of the industry’s refrigerant phase-out is recovering and reclaiming refrigerants (incl. 410A) so that there’s enough supply to maintain existing systems going forward.

However, there’s a problem — refrigerants aren’t being reclaimed like they should be. Only 1.6% of HFCs sold in 2020 were recycled and ready for reuse, per ACHR News.

Why so low? Technicians cite a few reasons, including not having the necessary equipment on hand, a lack of training, and the time it takes, which delays jobs. Plus, there haven’t been compelling financial incentives for contractors — until now.

What’s going on: Reclamation companies, including Hudson Technologies and National Refrigerants, are making policy changes amidst the phase-out to incentivize recovery.

• For example, they’re paying higher prices than in the past, accepting mixed refrigerants, and not charging disposal fees.

These companies are also working to make the process smoother. Kate Houghton of Hudson Technologies said, “Once we receive a contractor’s cylinders, we refurbish and maintain them and return them empty.. within two business days. This helps contractors avoid having to carry extra cylinders in their fleet.”

Takeaway: Efforts to prevent a shortage of current refrigerants present a real, bottom-line opportunity for contractors. As Houghton noted, “Contractors can turn recovery activities into a profit center and not a cost.”