1. Recovery Equipment Standards
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations require that refrigerant recovery and recycling equipment meet specific standards. These standards are detailed in Appendix B2 to 40 CFR 82, Subpart F.
For equipment manufactured or imported after January 1, 2017, additional requirements apply based on whether the refrigerant is flammable or non-flammable.
The standards are based on the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) 740 test protocol.
2. EPA-Approved Testing Organizations
The EPA has approved two organizations for certifying recycling and recovery equipment: the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
Certified equipment bears a label stating: “This equipment has been certified by AHRI/UL to meet EPA’s minimum requirements for recycling and/or recovery equipment intended for use with [appropriate category of appliance].”
3. Certification by Owners
Previously, individuals servicing stationary air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment needed to certify their compliance with equipment requirements. However, this certification is no longer mandatory.