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Refrigerant Recovery, Recycling, and Handling Flashcards

7 cards from real ASE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Refrigerant Recovery, Recycling, and Handling flashcards as text

  1. Recovery cylinders used to store used (contaminated) refrigerant must be labeled:

    Answer: 'Used Refrigerant — Do Not Mix with New Refrigerant'

    DOT regulations require recovered (used) refrigerant cylinders to be clearly labeled to prevent the used refrigerant from being mistakenly introduced into a new vehicle system.

  2. What minimum vacuum level should an A/C system reach and hold during a proper evacuation?

    Answer: 29 inches Hg (500 microns or below)

    A proper evacuation should pull the system to 500 microns (approximately 29.9 in Hg) or below to ensure all moisture and air are removed before recharging.

  3. Mixing different types of refrigerants (e.g., R-134a and R-1234yf) in the same cylinder or system is:

    Answer: Prohibited and creates a contaminated blend that cannot be recycled on-site

    Mixing refrigerants creates a contaminated blend that cannot be recycled on standard equipment and must be sent to a reclaimer, making it both costly and non-compliant.

  4. Which of the following is TRUE regarding the purchase of R-134a in containers larger than 2 lbs?

    Answer: Only EPA Section 609-certified technicians may purchase it

    Since January 2018, EPA Section 609 certification is required to purchase R-134a in containers larger than 2 lbs to ensure proper handling by trained personnel.

  5. An electronic refrigerant leak detector is being used after an A/C repair. Where should the technician START the inspection?

    Answer: At the lowest points and A/C fittings since refrigerant vapors are heavier than air

    Refrigerant vapors from R-134a and R-1234yf are heavier than air and settle at the lowest points, so checking fittings, hose connections, and low areas first improves detection accuracy.

  6. What does a HIGH discharge (high-side) pressure reading combined with a NORMAL low-side pressure indicate during A/C diagnosis?

    Answer: Restricted condenser airflow or condenser malfunction

    A high discharge pressure with normal suction pressure typically indicates the condenser cannot reject heat efficiently, usually due to blocked airflow, fins, or fan failure.

  7. Recovery cylinders for refrigerant must be hydrostatically tested and replaced or retested every:

    Answer: 5 years

    DOT regulations require refrigerant recovery cylinders to be re-tested every 5 years (or 12 years for some cylinder types) to ensure structural integrity under pressure.