Discharging and Recovery

REFRIGERANT RECOVERY

NOTE: In order to minimize the discharge of refrigerants into the atmosphere, the use of recovery and recycling stations for the refrigerant system must be used for air conditioners. Use of a U.L.-approved recovery/recycling device such as Rotunda Model Number 156-00001 or equivalent, (which meets SAE Standard J1991), must be used during any A/C system repair and recharge procedure which requires that the system be discharged.

Refrigerant recovery systems and recycling stations must be used. The use of such equipment makes possible the recovery and reuse of the A/C system refrigerant after contaminants and moisture have been removed. The following general procedures should be observed, in addition to the operating instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer should be observed.

CAUTION: Use extreme care and observe all safety and service procedures related to the use of refrigerants.

1. Connect the refrigerant recycling station hoses to the vehicle A/C service ports and the recovery station inlet fitting.

NOTE: The hoses should have shut off devices or check valves within 25.4 cm (12 inches) of the hose end to minimize the introduction of non-condensable gases (air) into the recycling station and to minimize the amount of refrigerant released when the hoses are disconnected.

2. Turn the power to the recycling station ON to start the recovery process. Allow the recycling station to pump the refrigerant from the system until the station pressure goes into a vacuum.

NOTE: On some stations, the pump will be shutoff automatically by a low pressure switch in the electrical system. On other units it may be necessary to manually turn OFF the pump.

3. Once the recycling station has evacuated the vehicle A/C system, close the station inlet valve (if so equipped). Then, switch OFF the electrical power.
4. Allow the vehicle A/C system to remain closed for about two minutes. Observe the system vacuum level as shown on the gauge. If pressure does not rise, disconnect recycling station hoses.
5. If the system pressure rises, repeat Steps 2, 3, and 4 until the vacuum level remains stable for two minutes.
6. Perform the required service operations, evacuate, and recharge the A/C system.