When AC change-out season is running at full tilt, it’s tempting to throw an old condenser in the back of the truck, drop it at the yard as a complete unit, and move on to the next job. But if you’re dropping off intact units, you’re leaving real money on the table.

A complete AC unit gets graded as “dirty scrap” or light iron because of the mixed steel, plastic, and insulation. Taking 10 to 15 minutes in the shop to break down a unit separates high-value copper and aluminum from low-value steel, turning a basic drop-off into a high-yield payout.

Step-by-Step Breakdown for Maximum Yield

1. Cut Out the Copper Lines

Snip the copper tubing connecting the compressor to the coil. Keep clean tubing separate from insulated lines.

• The Payout Upgrade: Uninsulated copper line gets graded as high-value #1 or #2 copper, yielding significantly more per pound than mixed scrap.

2. Prep the Coils (Aluminum/Copper Radiators)

Pull the evaporator and condenser coils. If the steel end plates are still attached, the coil is graded as “dirty.”

• The Payout Upgrade: Use a Sawzall to cut off the steel end caps on both sides. Stripping those steel plates upgrades your load to a clean Aluminum/Copper Radiator grade.

3. Pull the Compressor and Fan Motor

Unbolt the compressor and cut the lines cleanly. Remove the top fan motor from the shroud.

• The Payout Upgrade: Compressors and electric motors are dense and heavy. Selling them as dedicated motor/compressor scrap pays far better than leaving them attached to a sheet metal shell.

4. Toss the Steel Casing in the Light Iron Pile

Once the high-value copper, coils, and motors are removed, you’re left with the steel outer cage and fan blades.

• The Payout Upgrade: Keep this steel separate. You want your high-grade metals weighed on their own precision scales, not averaged out with heavy casing steel.

Why Bring Your Prepped Units to SIM?

At Smith Iron & Metal, we’ve worked with Richmond HVAC techs and mechanical contractors since 1940. We combine 86 years of grading experience with modern, high-precision industrial scales, so you know you’re getting exact credit for every ounce of clean copper and coil you bring in.

We get you over the scales, paid out on the spot, and back out on the road without delay.

Got a truckload of change-outs ready? Give our team a call for today’s current coil and copper rates before you head up:

Have a Question?

Visit Us: 3000 Bells Road, Richmond, VA
Call Us: (804) 271-1239
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Let us help you make your back-to-school season a little lighter on your wallet.