Specialized equipment is used to extract refrigerant from air conditioning and refrigeration systems. This process involves removing the refrigerant from the system and storing it in a dedicated cylinder, rather than releasing it into the atmosphere. This equipment often employs processes like vapor compression or liquid transfer to efficiently collect and store the refrigerant.
Proper refrigerant management is crucial for environmental protection and regulatory compliance. Reclaiming these substances prevents the release of potent greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change and ozone depletion. Furthermore, recovering refrigerants allows for their purification and reuse, minimizing the need for new production, which conserves resources and reduces manufacturing impact. This practice has become increasingly vital with the phasing out of ozone-depleting substances and the rise of more environmentally friendly alternatives.