CFC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CFC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When using a system-dependent recovery method on a small appliance, what is required if the appliance compressor is not operational? → A recovery machine must be used instead of the system compressor
2. Which regulatory framework governs the labeling, marking, and transportation requirements for refrigerant cylinders shipped in the United States? → DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations under 49 CFR
3. Which of the following best describes a key competency required for commercial refrigeration systems in CFC practice? → Strong analytical skills combined with effective communication and ethical judgment
4. When recovering refrigerant from an appliance for the purpose of disposal of the appliance, what recovery percentage is required for small appliances (Type I)? → 80% for systems manufactured before 11/15/1993; 90% for newer systems
5. How does EPA Section 608 certification differ from Section 609 certification? → Section 608 covers stationary refrigeration and AC; Section 609 covers motor vehicle AC
6. What field test can be used to check for the presence of non-condensable gases in a refrigerant cylinder? → Compare cylinder pressure to the P-T chart value for the measured cylinder temperature
7. Which industry standard defines the purity specifications that reclaimed refrigerants must meet before resale? → AHRI Standard 700
8. A technician measures a compressor's amp draw at 85% of the rated full-load amps with normal pressures. This indicates: → Normal operation within acceptable tolerance
9. At what altitude does the stratospheric ozone layer primarily reside that CFCs are known to deplete? → 15–35 km
10. Which type of recovery cylinder is specifically prohibited for use when recovering refrigerants? → Disposable cylinders originally used for refrigerant
11. A compressor's compression ratio is calculated as 8:1. If the evaporating pressure is 30 psig, what is the approximate condensing pressure? → 204.7 psig
12. Which refrigerant safety classification indicates both low toxicity and low flammability, making it commonly used in commercial refrigeration? → A1
13. Which unit measures the total impact of a refrigerant on ozone depletion when both its ODP and atmospheric lifetime are considered? → Global Warming Potential (GWP)
14. What is the purpose of the 'liquid recovery' method versus 'vapor recovery' when recovering refrigerant? → Liquid recovery is faster because it transfers refrigerant mass more quickly
15. What is the purpose of the 'low-loss fitting' required by EPA regulations on refrigerant recovery and charging hoses? → To automatically close and minimize refrigerant release when hoses are disconnected
16. Which organization certifies refrigerant reclamation facilities in the United States? → The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)
17. What type of valve is required on all DOT cylinders used to transport refrigerant to prevent accidental release during transport? → Protective cap or collar over the valve
18. Which condition indicates that an electronic refrigerant leak detector's sensor needs replacement or recalibration? → All of the above may indicate sensor problems
19. When must a technician use recovery equipment before opening a CFC or HCFC system for repair? → Always, regardless of charge size, when the system contains a regulated refrigerant
20. What does a 'standing pressure test' detect that a 'running pressure check' may miss? → Static leaks present when the system is off and pressurized
21. What is the primary reason a technician should not recover refrigerant into an oxygen cylinder, even an empty one? → Oxygen residue creates a violently reactive explosive hazard with refrigerant
22. In the context of CFC certification, what is the most important consideration when implementing automotive air conditioning service? → Ensuring alignment with established standards, stakeholder needs, and best practices
23. What is the civil penalty per day per violation that the EPA can impose on individuals who violate Section 608 refrigerant regulations? → Up to $44,539
24. What action is required if a technician discovers that recovered refrigerant is contaminated with moisture and non-condensables? → Return it to the supplier for reclamation
25. A shop that sells or distributes refrigerant for MVAC service is required to sell only to: → Section 609 certified technicians, verified before sale
26. A refrigerant distributor sells a 30-pound cylinder of R-410A to a technician. What must the distributor retain as documentation of the sale? → Evidence that the buyer is a certified technician or employs certified technicians
27. How soon after discovering a leak exceeding the applicable leak rate must an owner begin repair of a refrigerant appliance under Section 608? → Within 30 days
28. A technician holds Type I and Type II certifications. Which additional certification would allow them to service all equipment types? → Type III certification
29. What safety classification applies to R-1234yf? → A2L (mildly flammable, low toxicity)
30. A rotary vane compressor exhibits decreasing capacity over time. Inspection reveals worn vanes. What is the primary effect of worn vanes on system performance? → Decreased volumetric efficiency due to increased internal bypass leakage