What to do with R-12?| Grassroots Motorsports forum |

SV reX MegaDork
11/6/24 1:55 p.m.

I bought a house. Apparently owned by one of the worlds greatest hoarders. I've hauled 17 trailer loads to the dump.

One of the thing I discovered was an unopened 30lb canister of R-12. DuPont Freon 12 in a sealed tank still in its original box. It's been sitting in the attic for more than 30 years.

Looks like the stuff is pretty valuable, but also looks like I would need a special license to sell it.

Any thoughts?

Toyman! MegaDork
11/6/24 1:56 p.m.

Facebook marketplace.

SV reX MegaDork
11/6/24 2:00 p.m.

In reply to Toyman! :

I'm not sure it can be sold there. eBay has no listings of similar quantity.

Toyman! MegaDork
11/6/24 2:03 p.m.

In reply to SV reX :

There are several canisters listed locally on FB for $300-$400 each. If it was R22 I'd probably be interested.

SV reX MegaDork
11/6/24 2:05 p.m.

In reply to Toyman! :

I can modify the box with a Sharpie if you like. 😂😂

Berck HalfDork
11/6/24 2:32 p.m.

eBay banned all R-12 just very recently. I've been trying to figure out where the market shifted--FB marketplace looks like the likely answer.

GameboyRMH MegaDork
11/6/24 2:36 p.m.

If you don't want to risk a legally sketchy sale, it looks like there are 3 disposal program options in Georgia:

https://www.epa.gov/rad/find-rad-partner-programs

benzbaronDaryn SuperDork
11/7/24 12:53 a.m.

You could also see if any AC shops can use it but I think it is banned and you have to buy substitutes, might just wanna drop it for recycling I wouldnt want my balls in a vice over something I can't use to make $100.

akylekoz UberDork
11/7/24 6:16 a.m.

I'm here to convince you that it is not real R-12 therefore safe and legal to sell. You will believe me and sell it as an antique can on FBMP to an unsuspecting buyer who knows what you have.

stuart in mn MegaDork
11/7/24 7:32 a.m.

Here's a couple options: https://refrigerantsupply.com/r12-refrigerant/ https://refrigerantfinders.com/refrigerant-buyback-pricing-process/

The Google AI overview says "To sell R-12 refrigerant, you must ensure that you sell it to an EPA-certified technician." You may be able to find a local HVAC company that will buy it.