To those that have replaced their cooling units

Dispose of it just like you would an old window air conditioner unit. We have a recycling center and cost us $20 to drop off anything with refrigerant in it.

It is illegal to remove the refrigerant here in NY, unless less you have been certified and licensed. Here it causes $30 - $50 to have it done, a small price to be safe see previous post.

Dont cut the old one up!!
I tried that years ago and found out the hard way there is A LOT of pressure in there..
Upon cutting into the line I heard a pop and commercial grade ammonia sprayed my leg and arms (burning) and a cloud enveloped my head. It took one breath to start losing consciousness. Just as my vision went to a tunnel I stumbled out of the garage and got a couple of breaths of fresh air.
I danged near killed myself doing something stupid.

If you're replacing it because it leaked, the internal pressure is the same as atmospheric pressure.

If it hasn't leaked, the internal pressures are quite high, I think I recall maybe 150 psi or more. I'd investigate hiring out the depressurization and ammonia capture if I were in your shoes. Concentrated ammonia is not something you want to be breathing or working with sans proper equipment or training.