This is what I've learned from my reading : (feel free to correct me if you think I've misinterpreted something ) What we call freon is no longer used...the "refridgerants" used since the mid '90's don't produce CFC's. However it does have elements that still harm the ozone when released and because we never know whether we are dealing with an older model that has freon we have to be more careful. As someone said, freon is oderless. It is also non-toxic to humans unless breathed in...which happens to ignorant people who cut the line and stand over it !! That's one reason we have the forum...to educate each other. But, at the risk of having MDG call me a "tree hugger", I must say that it does have properties that do effect the ozone layer....we all need to limit our release of it into the air...and that's why we're all looking into recovery of some sort....not 'cause we're tree huggers necessarily...but because we don't want to break the law. Or get caught breaking the law, which is highly unlikely in rural ares like mine. And the scrap yards have to go by their state laws. I don't know about the federal laws for them...(read Mick's reference if you want to know specifics) I confess, I still do it, but I cut the line with my head turned and run. Then I don't go back near it for 12 hrs or more. Prob not necessary, but I'd rather err on the side of caution. Another thing that absolves my conscience a little is that I don't get stuff containing refridgerants very often. I have a HVAC friend who would recover it for me ,but he has to pay a FEE when he turns it in...go figure...you know the place that buys it either sells it or reuses it. I've tried to find a place that will buy it, but no luck yet.
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