EPA Revises Regulations for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Equipment

Practical Implications

Owners or operators of appliances that contain 50 or more pounds of ozone depleting refrigerant must keep service records documenting the date and type of service and the quantity of refrigerant added. Starting January 1, 2019, this requirement will apply to a broad range chlorofluorocarbon and other refrigerants.

Owners/operators will also be required to maintain records of leak inspections and tests performed to verify repairs of leaking appliances. Depending on the appliance type, refrigerant leak rates as low as 10 percent per year trigger mandatory corrective action (repair within 30 days or develop a plan to retrofit or retire the appliance within one year). Initial and follow-up verification tests at the conclusion of repair efforts will be required.

On-site records of maintenance, service, repair and disposal must be maintained and available for inspection. Certain events will require facilities to report directly to the EPA.