EPA EPA System Recovery and Evacuation Procedures

Question 1

What is the required recovery level (in inches of mercury vacuum) for systems with less than 200 pounds of refrigerant manufactured before November 15, 1993, when using recovery-only equipment made before that date?

Accepted Answer

4 inches Hg vacuum

Answer

For pre-1993 systems under 200 lbs using pre-1993 recovery equipment, the required evacuation level is 4 inches of mercury vacuum.

Question 2

Before opening a refrigeration system for major repairs, what must a technician do first?

Accepted Answer

Recover the refrigerant from the system

Answer

Federal regulations under Section 608 require technicians to recover refrigerant before opening any system to prevent venting to the atmosphere.

Question 3

What is the evacuation requirement for small appliances (systems containing 5 lbs or less of refrigerant) during recovery?

Accepted Answer

80% recovery if the compressor is not operating

Answer

For small appliances with inoperative compressors, EPA requires recovery of 80% of refrigerant; if the compressor operates, 90% recovery is required.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of deep evacuation before charging a refrigeration system?

Accepted Answer

To remove moisture and non-condensable gases from the system

Answer

Deep evacuation removes moisture and non-condensable gases (such as air and nitrogen) that can cause acid formation, elevated pressures, and system damage.

Question 5

Which instrument is used to measure the vacuum level during system evacuation?

Accepted Answer

Electronic micron gauge (vacuum gauge)

Answer

An electronic micron gauge accurately measures deep vacuum levels in microns of mercury (μm Hg), which manifold gauges cannot read precisely enough.

EPA - Environmental Protection Agency Universal Certification Practice Test

EPA - Environmental Protection Agency Universal Certification Practice Test

EPA EPA System Recovery and Evacuation Procedures