WARNINGS (for using R290/R32 refrigerant only)
j) When the cylinders have been filled correctly and the process completed, make sure that the
cylinders and the equipment are removed from site promptly and all isolation valves on the
equipment are closed off.
k) Recovered refrigerant shall not be charged into another refrigeration system unless it has
been cleaned and checked.
15. Labelling
Equipment shall be labeled stating that it has been de-commissioned and emptied of
refrigerant. The label shall be dated and signed. Ensure that there are labels on the equipment
stating the equipment contains flammable refrigerant.
16. Recovery
When removing refrigerant from a system, either for servicing or decommissioning, it is
recommended good practice that all refrigerants are removed safely.
When transferring refrigerant into cylinders, ensure that only appropriate refrigerant recovery
cylinders are employed. Ensure that the correct number of cylinders for holding the total
system charge is available. All cylinders to be used are designated for the recovered refrigerant
and labeled for that refrigerant (i.e. special cylinders for the recovery of refrigerant). Cylinders
shall be complete with pressure relief valve and associated shut-off valves in good working
order.
Empty recovery cylinders are evacuated and, if possible, cooled before recovery occurs.
The recovery equipment shall be in good working order with a set of instructions concerning
the equipment that is at hand and shall be suitable for the recovery of flammable refrigerants.
In addition, a set of calibrated weighing scales shall be available and in good working order.
Hoses shall be complete with leak-free disconnect couplings and in good condition. Before
using the recovery machine, check that it is in satisfactory working order, has been properly
maintained and that any associated electrical components are sealed to prevent ignition in the
event of a refrigerant release. Consult manufacturer if in doubt.
The recovered refrigerant shall be returned to the refrigerant supplier in the correct recovery
cylinder, and the relevant Waste Transfer Note arranged. Do not mix refrigerants in recovery
units and especially not in cylinders. If compressors or compressor oils are to be removed,
ensure that they have been evacuated to an acceptable level to make certain that flammable
refrigerant does not remain within the lubricant. The evacuation process shall be carried out
prior to returning the compressor to the suppliers. Only electric heating to the compressor
body shall be employed to accelerate this process.
When oil is drained from a system, it shall be carried out safely.
