HVAC Contractor Scrap Metal Guide
"I'm an HVAC contractor and I accumulate a ton of scrap — old units, copper lines, ACR coils. I feel like I'm leaving money on the table. How do you guys handle it?"
Set up a commercial account with a scrap buyer who picks up from your shop. ACR coils pay $1.50–$2.20/lb, copper lines pay $3.50–$4.00/lb, compressors pay $0.15–$0.30/lb. Separate everything before pickup — mixed loads get priced at the lowest-value material. A busy HVAC contractor can generate $500–$2,000/month in scrap income.
Set Up a Commercial Account
The biggest mistake HVAC contractors make is taking scrap to the yard themselves. Set up a commercial account with a buyer who comes to your shop. They provide a container, schedule regular pickups, and pay above-yard rates. You spend zero time hauling scrap and get better prices.
The HVAC Scrap Hierarchy
ACR coils: $1.50–$2.20/lb — always pull these separately. Copper refrigerant lines: $3.50–$4.00/lb for clean copper. Copper fittings: $1.80–$2.50/lb as Yellow Brass (separate from copper). Compressor motors: $0.15–$0.30/lb whole. Steel cabinet: $0.05–$0.10/lb. Never mix these — each has a different price.
Refrigerant Recovery — Your Advantage
As an EPA 608-certified tech, you're already recovering refrigerant. This means you can scrap units that residential sellers can't — they'd need to pay for refrigerant recovery first. Your certification is a competitive advantage in the scrap market.
Monthly Scrap Income Estimate
A busy HVAC contractor replacing 3–5 units per week generates: 15–25 ACR coils/month (20 lbs avg) = 300–500 lbs at $1.80/lb avg = $540–$900. Plus copper lines, compressors, and steel. Total: $600–$1,500/month in scrap income with zero extra effort if you're already separating properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much scrap does an HVAC contractor generate?
A busy contractor replacing 3–5 units per week generates $600–$1,500/month in scrap income with proper separation.
What is an ACR coil worth?
ACR (aluminum/copper radiator) coils pay $1.50–$2.20/lb. Always pull these separately — don't let them get priced as aluminum.
Should I set up a commercial scrap account?
Yes. A commercial account means the buyer comes to you, provides containers, and pays above-yard rates. Zero hauling time.
Do you offer commercial HVAC contractor accounts?
Yes. We provide containers, regular pickups, and above-market rates for HVAC contractors. Call (754) 310-2984 to set up an account.