Why should refrigerants be recovered rather than vented?

Recovering refrigerants rather than venting them is crucial primarily to prevent greenhouse gas emissions. Many refrigerants have high global warming potential (GWP), meaning they can contribute significantly to climate change when released into the atmosphere. By recovering refrigerants, we minimize their release and help protect the environment.

This practice aligns with environmental regulations and standards aimed at reducing emissions of harmful substances. Recovering refrigerants allows them to be reused or recycled, thereby conserving resources and contributing to sustainability efforts. It also mitigates the impact of refrigerants on ozone depletion and global warming, making it an essential practice in the refrigeration and air conditioning industries.

While the other choices may touch upon valid concerns—such as cost savings, equipment reliability, and safety—these aspects are secondary to the broader environmental implications of refrigerant management. Keeping refrigerants contained and properly handled reduces their contribution to climate change, which is a central reason for recovery over venting.