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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/epa-small-appliance-5-lb

Under EPA rules, a small appliance holds how much refrigerant at most?

5 pounds or less, factory-charged and hermetically sealed.

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  1. 15 pounds or less
  2. 50 pounds or less
  3. 5 pounds or less ✔

Why: EPA defines a small appliance as a factory-sealed unit with five pounds or less of refrigerant. Think home fridges, window air conditioners and vending machines. Anything bigger falls under the Type II or Type III rules.

Huh, didn't know that: EPA's small appliance list also names dehumidifiers, under-the-counter ice makers and drinking water coolers.

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References

Answer: 5 pounds or less. EPA defines a small appliance as a factory-sealed unit with five pounds or less of refrigerant. Think home fridges, window air conditioners and vending machines. Anything bigger falls under the Type II or Type III rules.

  1. 40 CFR 82.152 Definitions (Cornell LII) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/40/82.152
    fully manufactured, charged, and hermetically sealed in a factory with five (5) pounds or less of refrigerant
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. 40 CFR 82.152 Definitions (Cornell LII) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/40/82.152
    dehumidifiers, under-the-counter ice makers, vending machines, and drinking water coolers
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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