What refrigerant is usually excluded from typical refrigerant recovery procedures?

The refrigerant that is usually excluded from typical refrigerant recovery procedures is R-22. R-22, also known as hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), is a commonly used refrigerant for air conditioning systems. While it is crucial to follow proper recovery procedures to safely manage refrigerants and minimize environmental impact, R-22 has specific regulatory considerations and phases-out schedules under the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules due to its ozone-depleting potential.

The proper recovery procedures for refrigerants are generally designed to capture and contain all refrigerants to prevent their release into the atmosphere. However, R-22 may be managed differently due to these regulations; for example, in the context of specific service situations or retrofits, some may consider it under different guidelines. Understanding these regulatory variations is important for those involved in service and repair of HVAC systems.