SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/epa-major-repair-definition

Which of these counts as a 'major' repair under EPA's Section 608 rules?

Removing a major refrigerant component, such as the compressor, condenser, evaporator or auxiliary coil.

Start playing free

  1. Replacing a contactor
  2. Removing the compressor, condenser, evaporator or coil ✔
  3. Changing the air filter

Why: EPA says a repair is major if it involves removing the compressor, condenser, evaporator or auxiliary heat exchange coil. Major repairs require evacuating to the Table 1 levels. Opening a large enough hole for long enough can also be major.

Huh, didn't know that: A repair that uncovers an opening of more than four square inches of flow area for more than 15 minutes is also major.

The dad joke
Want to hear a joke about construction? Nah, I'm still working on it.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Removing the compressor, condenser, evaporator or coil. EPA says a repair is major if it involves removing the compressor, condenser, evaporator or auxiliary heat exchange coil. Major repairs require evacuating to the Table 1 levels. Opening a large enough hole for long enough can also be major.

  1. 40 CFR 82.152 Definitions (Cornell LII) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/40/82.152
    the removal of any or all of the following appliance components : compressor, condenser, evaporator, or auxiliary heat exchange coil
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. 40 CFR 82.152 Definitions (Cornell LII) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/40/82.152
    uncovering an opening of more than four (4) square inches of “flow area” for more than 15 minutes
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Trades & ShopWhich part of the refrigeration cycle squeezes refrigerant vapor to a high pressure and temperature?Trades & ShopUnder EPA rules, a small appliance holds how much refrigerant at most?Trades & ShopPost-1993 recovery equipment, small appliance with a dead compressor. What percent must you recover?

That's stuff everyone should know.