Refrigerant Recovery

Refrigerant recovery systems and recycling stations are in use in most automotive A/C service facilities. The use of such equipment makes possible the recovery and reuse of R-134a system refrigerant after contaminants and moisture have been removed.

If a refrigerant recovery or recycling station is used, the following general procedures should be observed, in addition to the operating instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer.

 CAUTION: Use extreme care and observe all safety and service precautions related to the use of refrigerants.

1. Connect refrigerant recycling station hose(s) to vehicle A/C service ports and recovery station inlet fitting.

   NOTE: Hoses should have shut-off devices or check valves within 25.4cm (10 inches) of the hose end to minimize the introduction of non-condensable gases (air) into the recycling station and to minimize the amount of refrigerant released when the hose(s) is disconnected.

2. Turn power to the recycling station on to start recovery process. Allow recycling station to pump refrigerant from the system until the vehicle system pressure goes into a vacuum. On some stations, the pump will be shut off automatically by a low pressure switch in the electrical system. On other units, it may be necessary to manually turn off the pump.

3. Once recycling station has evacuated vehicle A/C system, close the station inlet valve (if equipped). Then switch off electrical power.

4. Allow vehicle refrigerant system to remain closed for about two minutes. Observe system pressure/vacuum level as shown on the gauge. If pressure does not rise, disconnect recycling station hose(s).

5. If system pressure rises, repeat Steps 2, 3 and 4 until the vacuum level remains stable for two minutes.

6. Perform required service operations, evacuate and recharge the A/C system.