When transferring refrigerants into the cylinders, ensure that only appropriate recovery
cylinders are used. Ensure that the correct number of cylinders is available to hold the
entire system load. All bottles to be used are designated for the recovered refrigerant and
are labelled for this refrigerant (i.e. special bottles for refrigerant recovery). Cylinders must
be equipped with a pressure relief valve and associated shut-off valves in good working
order. Empty recovery cylinders are evacuated and, if possible, cooled before recovery
begins.
Recovery equipment must be in good working order and accompanied by instructions
regarding the equipment that is within reach and must be adapted to the recovery of
flammable refrigerants. In addition, a set of calibrated scales for weighing must be
available and in good working order. The hoses must be equipped with leak-proof
disconnection sleeves and be in good condition. Before using the recovery machine,
check that it is in good working order and has been properly maintained and that all
associated electrical components are sealed to prevent ignition in the event of refrigerant
release. In case of doubt, consult the manufacturer.
The recovered refrigerant must be returned to its supplier in the correct recovery bottle
and the corresponding waste transfer note must be established. Do not mix refrigerants in
recovery units and in particular in bottles.
If compressors or compressor oils must be removed, ensure that they have been
evacuated to an acceptable level to ensure that no flammable refrigerant remains in the
lubricant. The evacuation process must be completed before returning the compressor to
its supplier. Only an electric heater should be used on the compressor body to accelerate
this process. When oil is extracted from a system, it must be done safely.
