At what concentration must it alert the owner?

Leak detection · EPA 608 Type III. The correct answer, and the reasoning behind it.

Pressurizing low-pressure systems for leak tests, signs of leaks, inspections and reports.

The question

An automatic leak detection system that senses R-123 in the equipment-room air is used in place of leak inspections. At what concentration must it alert the owner?

• A10 parts per million
• B50 parts per million
• C1,000 parts per million
• D100 parts per millionCorrect answer

Why “100 parts per million” is correct

A system that detects refrigerant in air must accurately sense 10 ppm of the refrigerant and alert the owner when the concentration reaches 100 ppm. Its sensors must sit close to the compressor, evaporator, condenser and other likely leak points inside an enclosed building.

Source: 40 CFR 82.157(g)

Why the other answers are wrong

• 10 parts per million — 10 ppm is the level the system must be able to detect accurately, not the alert level.
• 50 parts per million — 50 ppm is not a figure in the rule.
• 1,000 parts per million — 1,000 ppm is ten times higher than the required alert level.

Practice more of this

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