Transferring Recycled Refrigerant

Use only DOT-approved containers. Evacuate the container to at least 27" Hg before transferring the refrigerant. Never fill a container to more than 60% of its gross weight rating. For example, a 30-lb. container would take 18 lb. and a 50-lb. container would take 30 lb.

Recycled refrigerant is used refrigerant that has been recovered from customers vehicle A/C systems by any shop servicing A/C. This same shop may also send recovered refrigerant to a reclaimer who processes the refrigerant so that it meets purity standards that are higher than those for recycled refrigerant. This refrigerant is known as reclaimed refrigerant. When buying reclaimed refrigerant, be sure it meets API 700-88 requirements. The EPA Hotline (1-800-296-1996) can provide information on approved refrigerant reclaimers.

Before using any container of recycled refrigerant, check for non-condensable gases (air). This can be done with the Refrigerant Identifier or by the following process:

1. Keep the container at 65°F for at least 12 hours, out of direct sunlight.

2. Connect a pressure gauge calibrated in 1-psi divisions to the container and read the pressure.

3. With an accurate thermometer, measure the air temperature within 4 in. of the container.

4. Compare the pressure in the chart. See if the pressure is at or below the limit shown.

5. If the pressure of the refrigerant is lower than the limit shown for a given temperature, the refrigerant is OK to use as is.








6. If the refrigerant's pressure is higher than the limit shown for a given temperature, slowly vent the vapor from the top of the container into the recovery/recycling unit. Continue until the pressure falls below the limit shown in the R12 or R134a chart. If the refrigerant is R134a and the pressure still exceeds the limits shown in the chart, shake the container and let it stand for several minutes. If the pressure then falls below the limits, it is OK to use as is. Should the pressure inside the container still exceed the pressure limit shown, recycle the entire contents.