At AirZone HVAC Services, we’re committed to more than just home comfort—we’re dedicated to protecting the environment and promoting responsible HVAC practices across Ottawa and the surrounding region. That’s why we’re proud to be a participating contractor in the HRAI Thermostat Recovery Program (TRP), Canada’s national initiative to safely recycle outdated thermostats.
If you’ve recently upgraded your thermostat—or plan to—here’s why it’s so important to properly dispose of older models, and how AirZone makes it easy.
What Is the Thermostat Recovery Program?
The Thermostat Recovery Program, operated by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI), is a free nationwide program designed to collect and safely recycle old thermostats. Many older units contain mercury, a toxic heavy metal that can pose a serious risk to human health and the environment if improperly discarded.
According to HRAI, even a small amount of mercury—just one gram—is enough to contaminate an entire eight-hectare lake, making fish unsafe to consume for a year. Many legacy thermostats include 1–4 mercury switches, with up to 10 grams of mercury per unit.
By diverting these devices from landfills, the TRP protects our air, soil, and water from mercury pollution—while encouraging Canadians to switch to more energy-efficient, programmable options.
Learn more about the program by visiting the official Thermostat Recovery Program page.
How Does It Work?
AirZone customers now have a simple and safe way to recycle their old thermostats:
- Step 1: Schedule your thermostat upgrade with AirZone. We’ll recommend modern programmable or smart models that reduce energy use and lower utility bills.
- Step 2: If your old thermostat qualifies, we’ll collect it during your appointment and handle the recycling process through our TRP partnership.
- Step 3: Mercury components are extracted by HRAI’s certified recycling partner, Aevitas Inc., ensuring safe and responsible disposal.
This service is completely free for homeowners. Whether you’re replacing a mercury-containing thermostat, an old mechanical model, or even an early digital unit, we can help you dispose of it properly.
Why It Matters in Ottawa
In the Ottawa area, homeowners are increasingly focused on energy savings and sustainable upgrades. But there’s still a large number of homes using thermostats that are 20+ years old—many of which contain mercury.
By participating in the Thermostat Recovery Program, we’re helping reduce environmental risk locally while supporting Canada’s larger climate action goals. Mercury doesn’t just pose a health risk—it’s also classified as a persistent, bioaccumulative toxin, which means it builds up in ecosystems over time.
At AirZone, we believe in doing the right thing—not just for our customers, but for our community and our future.
What Types of Thermostats Can Be Recycled?
The program accepts:
- Mercury-containing thermostats (mechanical with glass ampoules)
- Electronic thermostats
- Mechanical thermostats without mercury
Unsure if your current thermostat contains mercury? Use the responsible thermostat recycling guide provided by HRAI to check before you toss it.
Do Newer Thermostats Work as Well?
Absolutely—and in fact, they work better.
Modern programmable and smart thermostats help optimize your heating and cooling schedules, reduce energy waste, and qualify for energy rebates. At AirZone, we offer models that integrate seamlessly with high-efficiency HVAC systems, including heat pumps and zoning controls.
Looking to make the switch? Our team can guide you to the best thermostat for your HVAC system and lifestyle.
AirZone Makes It Easy to Upgrade and Recycle
Whether you’re already replacing an outdated thermostat or booking a new HVAC system installation, our team will handle the entire process—from proper product selection to environmentally responsible disposal.
We’ve served Ottawa, Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, and nearby communities for over 20 years. Our work is done by directly employed, certified technicians—no subcontractors—so you can feel confident that your upgrade is handled with care and expertise.
Visit our thermostat services page or request a free quote to get started.
AirZone Thermostat Recovery Program: Frequently Asked Questions
Does AirZone collect mercury thermostats during HVAC upgrades?
Yes. If your thermostat qualifies, our technician will collect it during your scheduled HVAC appointment and ensure it’s properly recycled through the HRAI Thermostat Recovery Program.
How much does this service cost?
It’s free. AirZone covers the cost of collection and recycling as part of our commitment to responsible HVAC practices.
What thermostats qualify for recycling?
We accept most types, including mercury, electronic, and mechanical units. If you’re not sure what type you have, we’ll help identify it during your visit.
Can I drop off a thermostat without booking a service?
Yes—please contact us first to confirm drop-off times. We’ll provide a safe, convenient way to return your thermostat for recycling, even if you’re not booking new equipment.
Why should I trust AirZone for this?
We’re not just another HVAC contractor. We’ve earned the trust of homeowners across Ottawa by combining environmental responsibility with industry-leading service. With 20+ years of experience, licensed staff, and deep knowledge of indoor comfort systems, we’re proud to offer safe solutions that go beyond installation.
