What must recovery equipment be capable of recovering from a non-operating system compressor?

In the context of refrigerant recovery, the correct choice highlights the essential standards for recovery equipment when dealing with non-operating system compressors. Recovery equipment must be designed to recover a significant percentage of the refrigerant from the system or achieve a certain level of vacuum to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards.

When assessing the requirements for recovery, the goal is to minimize the release of refrigerants into the atmosphere, which can be harmful to the environment. The correct answer specifies that recovery equipment should be capable of recovering 80% of the refrigerant or establishing a vacuum level of 5 inches of mercury. This standard ensures that a substantial amount of refrigerant is removed from the system, thus reducing potential emissions and ensuring that the remaining refrigerant is safely contained.

The levels of recovery reflect a balance between effectiveness and technical feasibility in a non-operating context, acknowledging that complete recovery may not always be possible in certain conditions. Such standards have been established by regulatory bodies to promote best practices within the HVAC industry and environmental protection.

Understanding these requirements is critical for technicians working with refrigeration systems, as it guides them to operate in compliance with regulations while also promoting responsible handling of refrigerants.