4 Small Appliance Refrigerant Recovery Procedures Free Online FlashCards

What qualifies as a small appliance?

A factory-made, factory-charged, hermetically sealed appliance containing 5 lb (2.3 kg) or less of refrigerant.

What certification is generally required to service a small appliance?

Technicians servicing or repairing small appliances generally need EPA Section 608 Type I or Universal certification. Recovery solely to prepare an appliance for disposal is an exception, but compliant equipment is still required.

When does the 80% recovery requirement apply?

Recover at least 80% when using equipment manufactured before November 15, 1993, or when the appliance compressor is not functional.

When does the 90% recovery requirement apply?

Recover at least 90% when using equipment manufactured after November 15, 1993, and the appliance compressor is functional.

What vacuum endpoint is an alternative to the recovery percentage?

The small-appliance rule also allows evacuation to 4 in. Hg vacuum as an alternative to the specified recovery percentage.

What should you check on the appliance before connecting equipment?

Read the nameplate to identify the refrigerant, charge, and any flammability warning before connecting recovery equipment.

What precautions are needed for a flammable refrigerant?

Use recovery equipment and cylinders specifically suitable for that refrigerant, control ignition sources, and follow the equipment manufacturer’s safety instructions.

Why must different refrigerants be kept separate?

Keep different refrigerants separate. Mixing can contaminate the recovered material and make it difficult or impossible to reclaim.

How should cylinder filling be monitored?

Use a scale to monitor the transferred refrigerant and stop before the cylinder reaches its marked maximum filling weight. Do not estimate fullness from pressure alone.

What does refrigerant recovery do?

Recovery removes refrigerant and stores it in an external container; it does not by itself clean or purify the refrigerant.

What must you never do with a hermetic compressor under vacuum?

Do not energize a hermetic compressor while the system is under vacuum.

What can pressure rebound after recovery indicate?

After reaching the target, wait briefly and recheck pressure. A pressure rise can indicate refrigerant remaining in the system or oil, so continue recovery as appropriate.