Derek Cole explains why AC refrigerant matters for the environment. Older units used less eco-friendly refrigerant, and contractors who vent it instead of capturing it into a tank violate EPA guidelines. Check for leaks promptly since AC systems are sealed.
Chapters
The units from 20 years ago were definitely not environmentally friendly. We have come a long way. We have made a lot of strides. What should be happening is anytime refrigerant is removed from your system, it should be pumped into a tank. It shouldn't just be out there in the environment. If your contractor is not doing that, that is a red flag, because something's not quite right. They're not following EPA guidelines to properly dispose of that refrigerant. The AC unit is a sealed system. It should not be admitting any refrigerant into the environment. But it happens. You want it to be as safe as possible, and you want to get it checked out as soon as possible so you can protect the environment.