This latest version includes EPA’s adoption of a new standard for refrigerant handling equipment, along with updated awareness of acceptable and unacceptable refrigerants.
The new standard specifies more stringent performance requirements for refrigerant handling equipment, and only applies to equipment built after December 31, 2007. “Technicians and shop owners needn’t panic over the adoption of this new standard by the EPA,” said Tim Zilke, ASE president. “The action doesn’t automatically make older equipment obsolete, nor does it make the use of that older equipment a service procedure violation in the eyes of the EPA.”
As a reminder, technicians should not confuse the ASE Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling Program with the ASE Heating and Air Conditioning certification. Only the ASE Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling program meets Section 609 requirements by the US EPA for motor vehicle air conditioning service. (Tire Review/Akron)