A homeowner's split system uses R-410A, an HFC. Is servicing it covered by the Section 608 rules?

Section 608 regulations · EPA 608 Core. The correct answer, and the reasoning behind it.

Pressure classes, recovery equipment certification, AHRI 700, the sales restriction and the venting ban.

The question

A homeowner's split system uses R-410A, an HFC. Is servicing it covered by the Section 608 rules?

• ANo, the rules cover only CFC and HCFC refrigerant systems
• BOnly if the system was installed before 2010
• COnly if the system holds more than 50 pounds
• DYes, non-exempt substitutes such as HFCs are coveredCorrect answer

Why “Yes, non-exempt substitutes such as HFCs are covered” is correct

Subpart F applies to anyone servicing appliances containing class I or class II refrigerants or non-exempt substitutes (40 CFR 82.150(b)). Since January 1, 2018 technician certification and the evacuation rules also apply to substitutes such as R-410A.

Source: 40 CFR 82.150(b); 40 CFR 82.161(a)

Why the other answers are wrong

• No, the rules cover only CFC and HCFC refrigerant systems — Coverage was extended to non-exempt substitutes; HFCs are included.
• Only if the system was installed before 2010 — Coverage does not depend on installation date.
• Only if the system holds more than 50 pounds — Charge size matters for leak repair (50 pounds for ozone-depleting refrigerant under Part 82, 15 pounds for HFCs under Part 84), not for whether the rules cover the system.

Practice more of this

More EPA 608 Core practice questions, or see every EPA 608 practice test.