Regulations for the Release of Refrigerants

Refrigerants refer to compounds that are used in heat cycles (thermodynamic processes) which change from gas to liquid form. Refrigerants are often used in refrigerators and freezers to keep food cool. However, refrigerants have the potential to damage the earth's ozone layer. This has necessitated government regulations on the control of refrigerants so that they cause minimal damage to the environment as well as to human beings. These regulations are formulated under the Clean Air Act.

Limited Refrigerants

• Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), halon, carbon tetrachloride and methyl chloroform are some of the refrigerants regulated. High grade production and release of these refrigerants is prohibited. Manufacturers must ensure that these substances are within permissible limits for release. The permissible level of release varies depending on the specific chemical and the regularity of the release and production of such chemicals by the manufacturer.

Banned Refrigerants

• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stipulates that refrigerants regulated under R-134e containing certain grades of HFC and CHFC chemical blends should not be knowingly and deliberately released into the open atmosphere. These grades include blends such as Hot Shot or R-414B, Freeze 12, FRIGC FR-12, Free Zone and GHG-X4 or R-414A. Appliances that cause the HFC refrigerant classified under R-134e, to be released into the air during service, repair, maintenance or disposal of these substances are strictly banned. It is also illegal to vent a refrigerant that has this substance. Reported violations of this regulation carry a reward of $10,000.

Disposal Rules

• Refrigerant units that are disposed of must be reported to local authorities. Individuals disposing of refrigerators or other appliances that may contain refrigerants (such as freezers) should contact the appropriate retailer and/or private organization within their area to have the unit disposed of in the proper manner. In case of accidental release of any of the banned refrigerant substances, you must immediately notify the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA)'s local chapters. Environmental taxes are levied on units and households that violate these regulations.