Refrigerant recovery equipment

The first step in refrigerant recovery is getting your EPA certification. You CAN NOT legally evacuate refrigerants until you are EPA certified. It is not hard to get certified to recover freon and it will save you from a possible large fine.
First you will have to decide what type of certification you will need. The 608 test covers appliances and large ac units however there are 4 different types for the 608 test. type 1 is for small appliances containing less then 5lbs of refrigerant This would be what you need for refrigerators and window air conditioners. It is an open book test that can be taken online at epatest.com

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You should read the manual a few times until it makes sense Study Guide then take the Practice test before attempting the real test.

The study guide and practice test are free at epatest.com

and the type 1 test is 24.95 and can be taken right from your computer.

For type 2,3 and universal you will have to find a registered EPA test center to take the test it is closed book test so make sure you know your stuff.

Type 2 Can only work on Medium, High and Very-High Pressure Appliances.
Type 3 can only work on Low-Pressure Appliances.
Universal Certification is someone who possesses Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3 Certifications.

Then there is also a 609 test if you will be recovering freon from automobiles. This test is also open book and can be taken right from your computer.
This test costs 19.95 but its well worth it if you want to scrap cars.

The next step in recovering freon is getting some equipment. You will need a good refrigerant recovery machine.
These machines can range from a couple of hundred dollars to a couple thousand. Start out with a simple machine like a promax or stinger they are a
little cheaper but get the job done.

I would suggest getting your machine on eBay for the best price. You will also Need recovery tanks (1 for each type of freon you will be recovering)
a gauge manifold, A set of hoses, and a recovery scale. Then there are some smaller items you will need such as bullet pierce valves,
and some basic hand tools.