When recovering refrigerant from a medium pressure system with more than 200lbs of refrigerant, to what level should it be recovered?

• A. 10" Hg
• B. 12" Hg
• C. 15" Hg
• D. 20" Hg

Answer: (C)

When recovering refrigerant from a medium pressure system that contains more than 200 lbs of refrigerant, it is essential to recover to a vacuum level that ensures the safe removal of the refrigerant while minimizing the possibility of future emissions. Recovering to a level of 15" Hg is in line with EPA regulations and best practices for medium pressure systems. This level helps to ensure that the majority of the refrigerant is removed from the system, making it compliant with environmental safety standards.

The choice of 15" Hg is particularly relevant because it provides a balance between effectively recovering refrigerant and avoiding the risks associated with potential leaks or incomplete evacuation. It's essential to be familiar with the required recovery levels for various systems, as proper recovery contributes to environmental protection by preventing the release of refrigerants into the atmosphere.

Recovery levels lower than 15" Hg might not adequately assure that the refrigerant has been completely evacuated, while levels much higher could unnecessarily complicate the recovery process. This understanding is crucial for anyone working with refrigerants, especially in systems containing significant quantities of refrigerant.