EPA regulations require that all Industrial Process Refrigeration (IPR) systems containing more than 50 pounds of refrigerant MUST be repaired when the annual leak rate exceeds;

The correct answer is based on the specific regulations established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning the management of refrigerants in Industrial Process Refrigeration (IPR) systems. According to EPA regulations, any system containing more than 50 pounds of refrigerant must be repaired if the annual leak rate exceeds 30%.

This regulation is part of the larger framework aimed at controlling the emissions of greenhouse gases and protecting the ozone layer. By requiring repairs when leak rates are at or above this threshold, the EPA encourages proper maintenance of refrigeration systems to minimize the release of harmful refrigerants into the atmosphere.

In this context, leak rates above 30% are considered significant enough to warrant immediate action, as they can indicate inefficiencies within the refrigeration system and contribute to environmental harm. The threshold emphasizes a responsible approach to refrigerant management and ensures compliance with environmental standards.