When do the small-appliance recovery levels in 40 CFR 82.156(b) apply?
Recovery requirements · EPA 608 Type I. The correct answer, and the reasoning behind it.
The small-appliance definition and the recovery levels required.
The question
When do the small-appliance recovery levels in 40 CFR 82.156(b) apply?
- Only when the appliance is being scrapped
- Only when the compressor is being removed and replaced
- Only when the charge is more than 2 pounds
- Before opening the appliance and when disposing of itCorrect answer
Why “Before opening the appliance and when disposing of it” is correct
The rule reads: "Before opening a small appliance or when disposing of a small appliance, persons must recover refrigerant" to the listed levels. Service and disposal are both covered.
Source: 40 CFR 82.156(b)
Why the other answers are wrong
- Only when the appliance is being scrapped — The levels also apply before a technician opens a small appliance for service.
- Only when the compressor is being removed and replaced — Any opening of the sealed system triggers the requirement, not just compressor jobs.
- Only when the charge is more than 2 pounds — Every small appliance is covered, regardless of how small the charge is.
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