How can we phase out our equipment that contains R12 and R22?

Question

The laboratory that I'm working at has several pieces of equipment that fall under the Montreal Protocol.

Some of our -20 degree (C) freezers, 3 door coolers, and ultra centrifuges contain refrigerants R12 and R22.

Are there any ways that we can fine tune these pieces of equipment so that they don't contain and produce these chems. or is there any company out there that will take old freezers and replace them with eenvironmentallysafe and economical ones?

How are these pieces of equipment properly disposed of?

(i know there is more than one question in here, including: any first hand knowledge on this situation?)

Answer 1

When you no longer need the freezers, have a refrigeration technician come in and collect the R12.  R22 is not considered near the environmental hazard that R12 is, but you may have local laws that require it to be collected also.

Some refrigeration units can be converted to a newer refrigerant like R134A.  The manufacturer would know for sure.

Once the refrigerant has been removed, they can be disposed of like a household appliance.  Your institution probably has channels that they recycle or otherwise dispose of excess equipment like this.

DK