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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/epa-system-dependent-15-lb

System-dependent recovery equipment may not be used on appliances holding more than how much refrigerant?

More than 15 pounds is off limits, unless it is a permanently attached pump-out unit.

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

Why: System-dependent equipment relies on the appliance's own parts, so EPA limits it to small charges. It can't be used when the full charge is more than 15 pounds, unless it's a pump-out unit permanently attached to the appliance.

Huh, didn't know that: Owners who service only their own appliances that have pump-out units are exempt from the requirement to use self-contained equipment.

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References

Answer: 15 pounds. System-dependent equipment relies on the appliance's own parts, so EPA limits it to small charges. It can't be used when the full charge is more than 15 pounds, unless it's a pump-out unit permanently attached to the appliance.

  1. 40 CFR 82.156 Required practices (Cornell LII) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/40/82.156
    System-dependent equipment may not be used with appliances with a full charge of more than 15 pounds of refrigerant
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. 40 CFR 82.156 Required practices (Cornell LII) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/40/82.156
    Persons who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of only appliances that they own and that contain pump-out units are exempt
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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