Which certification does this work require?

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

A technician will open the sealed system of a window air conditioner to replace its compressor. Which certification does this work require?

• AType II, because window units use high-pressure refrigerant
• BNone, because the charge is under 5 pounds
• CType I, or UniversalCorrect answer
• DSection 609 certification

Why “Type I, or Universal” is correct

Section 82.161(a)(1)(i) states that persons who maintain, service or repair small appliances must be certified as Type I technicians. A Universal technician holds Type I as part of that certification.

Source: 40 CFR 82.161(a); EPA: Certification Requirements

Why the other answers are wrong

• Type II, because window units use high-pressure refrigerant — Type II covers appliances other than small appliances; a window unit is a small appliance.
• None, because the charge is under 5 pounds — The 5-pound charge is what makes it a small appliance, and servicing a small appliance requires Type I; only disposal is exempt from certification.
• Section 609 certification — Section 609 covers motor vehicle air conditioning, not room air conditioners.

Practice more of this

More EPA 608 Type I practice questions, or see every EPA 608 practice test.