EPA Section 608 — Type I
Safety: practice questions
Our EPA 608 Type I bank has 9 questions on this topic. Here are 5 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.
Question 1
Why must you not use a recovery cylinder that is past its hydrostatic test date?
- It holds less refrigerant once it's past the date, so it fills up too quickly
- It is the wrong colour
- It is heavier
- It may not be safe to hold refrigerant under pressure
Show the answer
D. It may not be safe to hold refrigerant under pressure — Refillable cylinders must be retested every five years.
Question 2
Why should you never energise a compressor that is under a deep vacuum?
- It is required by EPA
- It removes the moisture faster from the windings
- It can damage the motor windings
- It speeds up recovery
Show the answer
C. It can damage the motor windings — Hermetic motors can be damaged when operated in a vacuum.
Question 3
Which danger is specific to recovering hydrocarbon refrigerants such as R-290 or R-600a?
- They freeze instantly at room temperature
- They are toxic in tiny amounts
- Flammability
- They contain chlorine
Show the answer
C. Flammability — Use recovery equipment rated for flammable refrigerants and avoid ignition sources.
Question 4
Why is it dangerous to braze on a small appliance that still contains refrigerant?
- It makes the joint too strong
- Nothing happens
- It cleans the tubing
- Heat can decompose refrigerant into toxic gases and raise pressure
Show the answer
D. Heat can decompose refrigerant into toxic gases and raise pressure — Recover the refrigerant before brazing.
Question 5
What can happen if a recovery cylinder is overfilled?
- It can rupture when the liquid expands with temperature
- It explodes immediately at any temperature once the valve is opened
- It loses its colour
- Nothing
Show the answer
A. It can rupture when the liquid expands with temperature — Fill only to 80% of capacity by volume.