Resources for Stationary Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Equipment Technicians
On this page:
- Section 608 Technician Certification
- Phaseout of Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS)
- Questions and Answers for Technicians
- Alternative Refrigerants
- Flammable Refrigerants and Technician Safety
- Reporting Violations of the Section 608 Regulations
- Materials to Share with Customers
The following information can help technicians and contractors who service stationary refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment, as well as their customers.
Section 608 Technician Certification
Technicians must pass an EPA-approved test given by an EPA-approved certifying organization in order to become certified. Additional information about the Section 608 Technician Certification.
Phaseout of Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS)
Learn about the phaseout of ODSA family of man-made compounds that includes, but are not limited to, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), bromofluorocarbons (halons), methyl chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, methyl bromide, and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). These compounds have been shown to deplete stratospheric ozone, and therefore are typically referred to as ODSs. See ozone., and how the phaseout affects technicians and contractors.
- Technicians and contractors: Frequently asked questions about the phaseout
- Brochure: What Technicians and Contractors Need to Know About Phasing Out HCFC Refrigerants to Protect the Ozone Layer
Questions and Answers for Technicians
Read common questions and answers for technicians
Alternative Refrigerants
Learn what ODS alternatives are acceptable for use in stationary refrigeration and air conditioners.
- Basic information about alternatives to ODS
- Fact Sheet: Ten Questions to Ask Before Purchasing an Alternative Refrigerant
Flammable Refrigerants and Technician Safety
Refrigerants with “22a” or “R-22a” in their names are highly flammable substances that are not approved for use in existing air-conditioning systems. These refrigerants have never been submitted to EPA for review of their health and environmental impacts. Using these propane-based refrigerants in an air conditioner that is not designed for flammable refrigerants poses a threat to homeowners and service technicians. EPA is investigating instances where propane-based refrigerants have been marketed and used as a substitutes for hydrochlorofluorocarbonA compound consisting of hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine, and carbon. The HCFCs are one class of chemicals being used to replace the CFCs. They contain chlorine and thus deplete stratospheric ozone, but to a much lesser extent than CFCs. HCFCs have ozone depletion potentials (ODPs) ranging from 0.01 to 0.1. Production of HCFCs with the highest ODPs are being phased out first, followed by other HCFCs. A table of ozone-depleting substances (http://www.epa.gov/ozone/science/ods/classtwo.html) shows their ODPs, GWPs, and CAS numbers. HCFCs are numbered according to a standard scheme (http://www.epa.gov/ozone/geninfo/numbers.html). (HCFC)-22 (also called R-22) and has taken enforcement actions where appropriate.
Access more information about R-22a and alternatives for air conditioning.
Reporting Violations of the Section 608 Regulations
Access information on how to report a violation of the Section 608 regulations.
Learn about EPA’s efforts to enforce regulations to protect the ozone layerThe region of the stratosphere containing the bulk of atmospheric ozone. The ozone layer lies approximately 15-40 kilometers (10-25 miles) above the Earth's surface, in the stratosphere. Depletion of this layer by ozone depleting substances (ODS) will lead to higher UVB levels, which in turn will cause increased skin cancers and cataracts and potential damage to some marine organisms, plants, and plastics. The science page (http://www.epa.gov/ozone/science/index.html) offers much more detail on the science of ozone depletion..
Materials to Share with Customers
EPA has developed several fact sheets and other outreach materials for owners of stationary refrigeration and air conditioning equipment. Technicians can use these materials as handouts for engaging with their customers.