How to Use a Refrigerant Recovery Unit

Using a refrigerant recovery unit is an essential step when reclaiming refrigerants from appliances or systems. Safely recovering refrigerants requires adherence to proper procedures to prevent environmental harm and potential injuries. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a refrigerant recovery unit:

1. Gather Necessary Equipment and PPE:

- Refrigerant recovery unit equipped with hoses and fittings

- Refillable refrigerant cylinder (compatible with the refrigerant being recovered)

- Safety goggles

- Heavy-duty gloves

- Hearing protection

- Face shield (if needed)

2. Select the Right Cylinder:

- Choose a refrigerant cylinder that is specifically designed for the recovery and storage of the refrigerant you are working with.

- Check the cylinder valve connections to make sure they match those on your recovery unit.

3. Prepare the Refrigerant Cylinder:

- Make sure the refrigerant cylinder is empty, clean, and free of moisture or contaminants.

- Connect the recovery unit's "Discharge" hose to the "In" port on the refrigerant cylinder.

4. Connect Recovery Unit to Appliance:

- Identify and access the low-pressure service port on the appliance or system.

- Attach the recovery unit's "Recovery" hose to the low-pressure service port and secure it tightly.

5. Prepare Refrigerant Recovery Machine:

- Open the recovery unit's "Refrigerant Cylinder" valve to create a vacuum in the cylinder.

- Close the "Purge" valve on the recovery unit.

6. Start Recovery Process:

- Turn on the power to the refrigerant recovery unit.

- Open the low-pressure service port valve on the appliance to initiate refrigerant recovery.

- Monitor the recovery unit's pressure gauges and adjust the vacuum as needed to avoid excessive pressure.

7. Monitor Recovery Progress:

- Observe the sight glass on the recovery unit to monitor the flow and bubbles indicating the refrigerant recovery.

- Allow enough time for all refrigerant to be recovered from the appliance.

8. Disconnect Recovery Unit:

- Once the refrigerant recovery is complete, close the low-pressure service port valve on the appliance.

- Turn off the power to the recovery unit.

- Disconnect the refrigerant cylinder by slowly closing the cylinder's "In" port valve and then detaching the "Discharge" hose.

9. Safely Store Recovered Refrigerant:

- Replace the cap or plug on the recovered refrigerant cylinder to prevent leakage.

- Store the cylinder in a clean, cool, and dry location, following local regulations and guidelines for refrigerant storage.

10. Dispose of Hoses and Fittings:

- If the hoses and fittings used during recovery are disposable, dispose of them according to local waste management regulations for refrigerants.

Remember, refrigerant recovery should only be performed by trained and certified professionals who have the necessary knowledge, skills, and equipment. Before handling refrigerants, it's crucial to consult the equipment's manufacturer's guidelines and relevant regulations in your area.