Free EPA 609 Practice Test

Answer: B. Section 609 certification from an EPA-approved program

Trading services is still service "for consideration." EPA's definition covers payment in cash, credit, goods, or services and leaves out only free work, so D is wrong. For passenger-car A/C, the rule calls for training and certification through a Section 609 program, so a Section 608 card alone (A) doesn't meet it. A business license (C) says nothing about the individual technician's refrigerant training.

Source: 40 CFR 82.32 — definitions, (g); 40 CFR 82.34 — prohibitions, (a)(2); EPA: Section 608 and Section 609 Overlap, Technician Certification

Answer: D. The tech needs Section 609 certification, and the shop needs approved recycling equipment

EPA's definitions treat a top-off, charging a system and doing nothing else, as service involving refrigerant. Shops that only top off MVACs face the same requirements as full-service shops, including buying approved recycling equipment, and the technician doing the work must be certified. There's no small-job exception (A, B), and certification belongs to the person doing the work, not just the owner (C).

Source: 40 CFR 82.32 — definitions, (e)(4) and (h); 40 CFR 82.34 — prohibitions, (a)

Answer: C. CFC-12 (R-12)

CFC-12 is the ozone-depleting refrigerant in EPA's MVAC table. It was replaced in new vehicles by R-134a; by the 1995 model year, all new vehicles sold in the United States with A/C used R-134a. R-134a, R-1234yf, and CO2 are listed as not ozone-depleting, although R-134a is a potent greenhouse gas.

Source: EPA: Acceptable Refrigerants and their Impacts, Environmental impacts table; CFC-12 section

Answer: A. Recycle it with approved equipment (or reclaim it) first

The rule says recovered refrigerant must be recycled before it is returned to an MVAC, including the vehicle it came from. EPA repeats this on its servicing page. "Same car" (B) is the classic trap. The requirement doesn't depend on an identifier result (C), and it applies to substitutes such as R-134a, not only CFC-12 (D).

Source: 40 CFR 82.32 — definitions, (e)(1); EPA: Regulatory Requirements for MVAC System Servicing, Refrigerant Handling

Answer: B. Stop for at least 5 minutes, check for pressure, and repeat until vacuum holds 2 minutes

Refrigerant trapped in oil and cold components keeps boiling off after the first pull. The codified procedure has you stop for at least 5 minutes, check for pressure, and repeat until the vacuum stays stable for 2 minutes. MACS teaches the same check for current systems. Opening early (A, C) releases refrigerant, and venting leftover vapor (D) is prohibited.

Source: 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix A (SAE J1989 procedure), SAE J1989 §3.2.1; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 14

Answer: D. Refuse: CFC-12 under 20 lb goes only to 609-certified buyers or resellers

The CFC-12 small-container rule is its own rule. Containers under 20 pounds may go only to buyers certified under the Section 609 program, or to resellers who certify in writing that the cans are for resale. EPA states it plainly: CFC-12 under 20 pounds may only be sold to Section 609-certified technicians. The 2-pound small-can exemption (B) applies to substitute refrigerants such as R-134a, not CFC-12.

Source: 40 CFR 82.34 — prohibitions, (b); 40 CFR 82.42 — records and certification, (b)(3); EPA: Regulatory Requirements for MVAC System Servicing, Ozone-Depleting Refrigerants: Sales Restrictions

Answer: C. HFO-1234yf

EPA lists GWP 4 for HFO-1234yf, compared with 124 for HFC-152a, 1,430 for HFC-134a, and 10,900 for CFC-12. (CO2, not offered here, is 1.) GWP compares a gas's warming effect with carbon dioxide's. GWP values depend on the reference used; this question uses EPA's table.

Source: EPA: Acceptable Refrigerants and their Impacts, Environmental impacts table

Answer: A. The shop operator also owns the approved recycling equipment at the other location

Recover-only machines remove refrigerant but don't clean it. Proper use of that equipment includes recycling the refrigerant with approved recycling equipment or sending it for reclamation. Off-site recycling is allowed only on equipment owned by the same person who owns the recover-only equipment and owns or operates the establishment. Operating a leased shop therefore meets the establishment part of that condition. Another shop's certified operator alone (B) does not meet the ownership condition; C incorrectly rules out permitted off-site recycling, and an identifier reading (D) does not replace recycling.

Source: 40 CFR 82.32 — definitions, (e)(1)–(2)

Answer: C. Section 609, or Section 608 Type II; EPA recommends considering Section 609

The tractor system in this question is classified as MVAC-like; this category includes qualifying cab A/C units on non-road vehicles such as farm and construction equipment. Technicians who service them may be certified under Section 609 or Section 608 Type II. EPA recommends considering Section 609 because the systems are so similar to car A/C. Being off-road doesn't exempt the work (A, D), and Type I (B) is the small-appliance certification.

Source: EPA: Section 608 and Section 609 Overlap, Technician Certification; 40 CFR 82.34 — prohibitions, (a)(3)

Answer: B. Within 12 inches (30 cm) of the end that connects to the vehicle

Valves close to the service end keep the refrigerant in the hose from escaping when you disconnect, and keep air out. The J1989 procedure in EPA's rules puts them within 12 inches (30 cm) of the service ends. Most modern quick couplers build the valve into the coupler. The other stated limits do not ensure compliance with the 12-inch requirement.

Source: 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix A (SAE J1989 procedure), SAE J1989 §3.1 and §4.1; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 8

Answer: D. CO2 is exempt from the venting ban, but paid CO2 MVAC service still requires Section 609

Federal rules prohibit knowingly venting refrigerant during service, repair, or disposal. Carbon dioxide is on the exempt list. EPA stresses that the exemption covers venting only: paid service involving refrigerant in CO2 MVAC systems still falls under Section 609, including certified refrigerant-handling equipment. R-1234yf and R-134a are non-exempt, so A and B are wrong. C misses the CO2 exemption.

Source: 40 CFR 82.154 — venting and sales restriction, (a)(1)(i); EPA: Regulatory Requirements for MVAC System Servicing, Venting Prohibition

Answer: A. A2L, mildly flammable

EPA describes HFO-1234yf as mildly flammable (ASHRAE A2L) but usable safely. Its SNAP listing requires safety features such as a flammable-refrigerant warning label, a high-pressure compressor cutoff, pressure-relief devices, and unique fittings. It isn't A1 like R-134a (no flame propagation in the classification test), in the higher-flammability A3 class, or in the higher-toxicity B group.

Source: EPA: Acceptable Refrigerants and their Impacts, HFO-1234yf; EPA: Refrigerant Safety, Safety classification figure 3; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 38, refrigerant table (safety classifications only)

Answer: B. SAE J2843

EPA's rule assigns SAE J2843 to equipment that recovers, recycles, and recharges HFO-1234yf. J2788 covers R-134a recover/recycle/recharge machines, and J2810 covers R-134a recover-only machines. J1771 is the standard for refrigerant identifiers, not recovery equipment. A machine that handles both R-1234yf and R-134a falls under a separate standard, J3030.

Source: 40 CFR 82.36 — approved equipment, (a)(4), (5), (8), (10); 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix C (SAE J2788), §6.1.1 (J1771 identifiers)

Answer: C. No federal expiration, though EPA can revoke it or require recertification later

The federal rule sets no expiration date. It says EPA reserves the right to require recertification in the future, and it lets EPA revoke a certificate if a technician can't demonstrate proper recovery on request. MACS calls its credentials "good for life" and ASE calls its certificate a "lifetime certificate." No renewal cycle (A, B) or refrigerant change (D) ends it.

Source: 40 CFR 82.40 — technician certification, (d) and (f); MACS: EPA 609 Certification, credential validity; ASE: Section 609 Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling Program, lifetime certificate

Answer: D. At least 3 years, kept on-site

Owners of approved recycling equipment must keep records that their operators are certified. Required records are kept for at least three years, and businesses that service MVACs for pay must keep them on-site. The shop must also let an authorized EPA representative see them. The shop doesn't file these records with EPA (A).

Source: 40 CFR 82.42 — records and certification, (b)(2), (4), (5)

Answer: A. By weight, not exceeding 60% of the container's gross weight rating

Overfilled containers can rupture as liquid expands with heat. For transfers into external containers, the procedure controls the fill by weight and limits it to 60% of the container's gross weight rating. The 80% number (B) comes from a different rule: equipment overfill protection must keep a storage tank at or below 80% of its rated volume. Don't swap the two.

Source: 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix A (SAE J1989 procedure), SAE J1989 §7.2; J1990 §7.4; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 11, item 11

Answer: B. Recover all the CFC-12 with approved equipment before charging R-134a

EPA's retrofit conditions require removing the original CFC-12 with approved recovery equipment before charging, to prevent mixing. The retrofit also needs the new refrigerant's unique fittings and a new label that covers or replaces the old one. EPA doesn't call any retrofit refrigerant a "drop-in" (A). Adapters can't substitute for the required fittings (D).

Source: EPA: Choosing and Using a Retrofit Refrigerant for a CFC-12 MVAC, Remove Original Refrigerant; Labels; Unique Fittings

Answer: C. Recover the refrigerant with approved equipment

Before any service that can reasonably be expected to release refrigerant, approved equipment must be used to extract it. EPA's servicing page says the same. Bleeding through a fitting (A) is venting. The rule has no minimum-quantity exception (B), and capping ports (D) doesn't remove anything.

Source: 40 CFR 82.32 — definitions, (e)(2); EPA: Regulatory Requirements for MVAC System Servicing, Refrigerant Handling

Answer: A. Yes; it fits the federal small-can exemption

Since January 1, 2018, the sales restriction covers substitute refrigerants such as R-134a. There is a carve-out: MVAC refrigerant in a container designed to hold two pounds or less, with a unique fitting, and a self-sealing valve meeting §82.154(c)(2) if made or imported on or after that date. EPA confirms these cans can still go to uncertified DIY buyers. The limit includes 2 pounds. Buying the can doesn't authorize paid service without certification.

Source: 40 CFR 82.154 — venting and sales restriction, (c)(1)(ix) and (c)(2); EPA: Refrigerant Sales Restriction, Requirements to Purchase Refrigerant

Answer: D. Keep it at 65°F or warmer for 12 hours, out of direct sun, then compare

Air in a container shows up as pressure higher than pure refrigerant would have at that temperature. That comparison only works once the container has stabilized. The J1989 procedure calls for at least 65°F for 12 hours, protected from direct sun, before you read a calibrated gauge and compare. Checking immediately (A), below the minimum temperature (B), or at an arbitrary temperature without the required stabilization (C) does not meet this procedure. A pressure-temperature comparison alone also cannot distinguish excess air from a mixture of different refrigerants.

Source: 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix A (SAE J1989 procedure), SAE J1989 §5.1–5.4; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed pp. 29–30

Answer: B. Section 608 Type II; EPA doesn't treat R-22 bus systems as MVACs

EPA's MVAC definition excludes passenger-bus A/C that uses HCFC-22. EPA classifies those systems as high-pressure equipment under Section 608 Type II. A bus using CFC-12 or R-134a would be an MVAC. The refrigerant decides this case, not simply the fact that it's a vehicle (A). Bus systems aren't MVAC-like appliances (C), and they aren't exempt (D).

Source: 40 CFR 82.32 — definitions, (d); EPA: Section 608 and Section 609 Overlap, Technician Certification

Answer: C. Yes; the restriction covers newly made vehicles, not service of existing ones

EPA's 2023 Technology Transitions rule limits refrigerants with GWP of 150 or higher in newly manufactured or imported light-duty vehicles from model year 2025, but no earlier than October 24, 2024. Later dates apply to other vehicle classes. EPA says the rule does not restrict using HFCs to service or repair existing MVAC systems, so existing R-134a vehicles can still be serviced with R-134a. No conversion (B) or waiver (D) is needed.

Source: EPA: Regulatory Requirements for MVAC System Servicing, Technology Transitions Program; EPA: Acceptable Refrigerants and their Impacts, MVAC HFC Restrictions table

Answer: D. Recover it with dedicated recover-only equipment for contaminated refrigerant (SAE J2851)

Recycling machines can't separate mixed refrigerants. Drawing a mix into your normal recover/recycle/recharge (R/R/R) machine (A) can contaminate its supply and vehicles subsequently charged from it. EPA's rules set SAE J2851 for recover-only equipment that handles contaminated R-134a or R-1234yf. Contaminated refrigerant still can't be vented (B), and topping off (C) only adds to the mix.

Source: 40 CFR 82.36 — approved equipment, (a)(9); 40 CFR 82.154 — venting and sales restriction, (a)(1); MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed pp. 7 and 31

Answer: A. Nothing new; the equipment certification is a one-time requirement

EPA says the equipment certification is a one-time requirement for a shop. A shop that has certified ownership of CFC-12 or HFC-134a equipment doesn't resubmit when it buys more equipment, even for a different refrigerant such as HFO-1234yf. New shops, or shops servicing MVACs for the first time, file the one-time statement with their EPA regional office.

Source: EPA: Regulatory Requirements for MVAC System Servicing, Recordkeeping Requirements for Service Shops; 40 CFR 82.42 — records and certification, (a)

Answer: B. 34 oz

Multiply pounds by 16: 2.12 × 16 = 33.92, or about 34 ounces. The costly mistake is reading 2.12 lb as "2 pounds 12 ounces" and charging 44 ounces (A), a 10.08-ounce overcharge. 21.2 (C) multiplies by 10, and 32 (D) drops the decimal. Precision matters: SAE J2788 machines must charge within 15 grams (0.5 oz) of the vehicle spec.

Source: MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed pp. 25–26 (charge conversions); 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix C (SAE J2788), SAE J2788 §9.1

Answer: C. The 609 certification rule doesn't apply, but venting refrigerant is still illegal

Subpart B applies to people who service a motor vehicle A/C for consideration. An owner working on his own car isn't covered by the certification rule (A) or the equipment requirement (B). The federal venting prohibition for non-exempt refrigerants applies to any person servicing A/C, though, and MVACs are included, so D is wrong.

Source: 40 CFR 82.30(b) — scope, (b); 40 CFR 82.34 — prohibitions, (a); EPA: Regulatory Requirements for MVAC System Servicing, Venting Prohibition; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 5

Answer: A. Cab A/C: Section 609. Cargo unit: Section 608.

The MVAC definition covers equipment that cools the driver's or passenger's compartment. It specifically excludes hermetically sealed systems used for refrigerated cargo. EPA's fact sheet places refrigerated trailers under Section 608. Being mounted on a truck doesn't make cargo refrigeration an MVAC (B).

Source: 40 CFR 82.32 — definitions, (d); EPA Section 609 fact sheet (EPA 430-F-13-004), p. 1, 608 vs. 609 chart; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 6

Answer: D. Individual proof of certification with a unique technician number

Each approved program must give individual proof of certification when the technician passes, such as a certificate, wallet card, or display card. It must also assign each technician a unique number. EPA approves programs; it doesn't issue the card itself (A). The card is what you show when a seller asks, so keep a copy.

Source: 40 CFR 82.40 — technician certification, (a)(4)

Answer: B. It lets more harmful ultraviolet radiation reach the Earth's surface

The ozone layer high in the atmosphere shields the Earth from the sun's harmful UV radiation. EPA links ozone loss to more skin cancer, cataracts, and weakened immune systems, plus damage to crops and materials. EPA's fact sheet notes that a single chlorine atom released from a CFC can destroy over 100,000 ozone molecules. Ground-level ozone (A) is a separate smog problem, which is why EPA says ozone is "good up high, bad nearby."

Source: EPA: Acceptable Refrigerants and their Impacts, CFC-12 section; EPA Section 609 fact sheet (EPA 430-F-13-004), p. 1

Answer: C. CFC-12 depletes ozone; R-134a doesn't, but it's a greenhouse gas and can't be vented

CFC-12 is ozone-depleting, with a GWP EPA lists at 10,900. R-134a doesn't deplete ozone, but EPA calls it a potent greenhouse gas with a GWP of 1,430. It is not on the exempt list, so knowingly venting it is prohibited. "Doesn't deplete ozone" doesn't mean "harmless" (B, D).

Source: EPA: Acceptable Refrigerants and their Impacts, Environmental impacts table; HFC-134a section; 40 CFR 82.154 — venting and sales restriction, (a)(1)

Answer: A. Its SNAP status: hydrocarbons are unacceptable in MVACs, so using one is illegal

EPA's SNAP program decides which substitutes are acceptable in MVACs. All flammable refrigerants except HFC-152a and HFO-1234yf are unacceptable for new and retrofit MVAC systems, and that includes every hydrocarbon. When a refrigerant is listed as unacceptable, using it is illegal. Marketing (B), a physical fit, retrofit use (C), and can size (D) don't change that.

Source: EPA: Acceptable Refrigerants and their Impacts, Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) Program

Answer: D. About 5 to 10 times higher

EPA notes that CO2 systems operate at 5 to 10 times the pressure of other MVAC systems. That's why they need their own components, equipment, and training. CO2 in the cabin is also regulated: SNAP use conditions cap passenger-space concentrations if the system leaks.

Source: EPA: Acceptable Refrigerants and their Impacts, CO2 (R744)

Answer: B. Recycling removes contaminants for reuse; reclaiming restores AHRI 700 purity

Recovery removes refrigerant and stores it. Recycling removes impurities and oil so it can go back into an MVAC, usually right at the shop. Reclamation returns refrigerant to virgin specifications under AHRI Standard 700 at an EPA-certified reclaimer. Location alone does not define the process: §82.32(e)(2) permits limited off-site recycling. An ordinary MVAC recycling machine recycles; it does not reclaim (D).

Source: EPA: Regulatory Requirements for MVAC System Servicing, Refrigerant Handling; 40 CFR 82.32 — definitions, (e)(2), off-site recycling

Answer: C. No; de minimis covers minor releases associated with good-faith recovery or recycling

The de minimis allowance covers minor releases associated with good-faith recovery or recycling when the required practices and equipment are used. It isn't a quantity threshold (A, B). Deliberately venting a non-exempt refrigerant to save time is exactly what the prohibition targets. GWP doesn't matter here (D); only listed substitutes such as CO2 are exempt.

Source: 40 CFR 82.154 — venting and sales restriction, (a)(1)–(3)

Answer: A. 1 fluid ounce of new oil of the type and viscosity specified

The equipment standards require machines to measure removed oil so you can replace it accurately, and they say to use only new lubricant. Drained oil (B) is discarded under applicable rules. Oil type and viscosity vary by system, including special oils for electric compressors. Too little oil starves the compressor (C), and too much can slug it or hurt cooling (D).

Source: 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix A (SAE J1989 procedure), SAE J1990 §7.7 note; 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix C (SAE J2788), SAE J2788 §7.6 note; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 16

Answer: D. Certification to the right SAE standard by EPA or an approved testing lab

New refrigerant recycling equipment must be certified by EPA, or by an independent standards testing organization EPA has approved, as meeting the applicable standard for its refrigerant and function. For example, a J2788 machine must carry a label stating which certifying agent certified it to J2788. A technician's card (C) certifies the person, not the machine. Fit (B) and price (A) prove nothing.

Source: 40 CFR 82.36 — approved equipment, (a)(1); 40 CFR 82.38 — testing organizations, (a); 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix C (SAE J2788), SAE J2788 §3.3–3.4

Answer: B. No; adapters can't convert unique fittings, and hose fittings are permanent

Unique fittings exist so different refrigerants can't be mixed. EPA says an adapter may not be used to convert a fitting, and once a fitting is attached to a hose it is permanent. Manifold gauges may use a standardized fitting at the gauge end, but the unique fitting at the vehicle end must be permanent (C). Purging (A) or identifying (D) doesn't make swapping legal.

Source: EPA: Regulatory Requirements for MVAC System Servicing, Unique Fittings; Applicability to Manifold Gauges; EPA: Unique Fittings and Label Colors, Unique Fittings

Answer: C. Eye protection and protective (impervious) gloves

The MACS manual's first safety rule is to always wear eye protection when servicing A/C systems or handling refrigerant. It also calls for impervious gloves because PAG oil can irritate skin. A dust mask (B) doesn't protect eyes or skin, and low pressure (A) isn't a reason to skip protection.

Source: MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 11, items 1 and 6

Answer: A. Within 15 grams (0.5 oz) of spec

J2788 requires the machine to both indicate and deliver the charge within 15 grams (0.50 oz) of spec. It must also give technicians a way to check that accuracy, such as a calibration weight. Modern systems hold small, critical charges, so small errors hurt cooling.

Source: 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix C (SAE J2788), SAE J2788 §9.1

Answer: D. Yes; off-site use is allowed, and all Subpart B rules still apply

The rule says approved refrigerant recycling equipment may be taken off-site and used wherever servicing happens. All the requirements that would apply at the shop still apply, including certification, proper equipment use, and recycling before reuse. Subpart B does not require the separate mobile-service permit described in B or limit off-site service to recover-only equipment as C claims.

Source: 40 CFR 82.32 — definitions, (e)(3)

Answer: B. Do it; proper use includes following the maker's maintenance guide

EPA defines proper use of approved equipment to include operating it according to the manufacturer's guide to operation and maintenance. A saturated filter-drier can't clean refrigerant to the purity standard. J2788 machines are even required to lock out when the filter reaches the end of its life. The approval label doesn't waive maintenance (A), and the rule doesn't set its own schedule (C, D).

Source: 40 CFR 82.32 — definitions, (e)(1); 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix C (SAE J2788), SAE J2788 §4.1.1

Answer: A. Don't; air and R-134a under pressure can be combustible

The J2788 standard in EPA's rules says systems and equipment should never be pressure- or leak-tested with air/R-134a mixtures and warns against using shop air. MACS explains that R-134a can become combustible when mixed with air under pressure, and that shop air brings in moisture and contaminants. A pressure cap (B), a mix ratio (C), or an empty system (D) doesn't fix that.

Source: 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix C (SAE J2788), SAE J2788 §5.2; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 11, item 4; printed p. 18

Answer: C. Heat can break refrigerant down into hazardous products

The MACS manual warns that refrigerant such as R-134a exposed to open flames or hot metal can decompose, and that the decomposition products are hazardous. That's a separate issue from R-1234yf's mild flammability. It's also why MACS says never to heat an accumulator with a torch during recovery.

Source: MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 11, item 3; printed p. 14

Answer: D. Vapor can displace oxygen and cause asphyxiation

Refrigerant vapor can build up in a closed space and push out the oxygen you need. The MACS manual warns that heavy exposure can cause asphyxiation. "Nontoxic" (A) doesn't mean "safe to breathe in high concentrations." Fire (B) and frostbite (C) are separate hazards.

Source: MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 11, item 2; EPA: Refrigerant Safety, Asphyxiation risks and exposure concentrations

Answer: B. Don't; use only refillable cylinders approved for it (e.g., DOT 4BA/4BW)

The J1989 procedure says recycled refrigerant should not be stored in disposable containers and should go only in DOT- or UL-approved storage containers. MACS adds that refrigerant should never be transferred into a cylinder unless it's DOT-approved for refilling, marked such as "DOT 4BA" or "DOT 4BW." A label (A), size (C), or time limit (D) doesn't make a disposable cylinder refillable.

Source: 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix A (SAE J1989 procedure), SAE J1989 §6.1; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 11, item 10

Answer: A. Purge vapor into the recycling equipment until it's below the limit

With other refrigerants ruled out and the container stabilized, the reading indicates excess non-condensable gas such as air. The codified procedure has you slowly vent a small amount of vapor from the top of the container into the recycling equipment until the pressure falls below the table value. If it still reads high, the whole container gets recycled again. Venting to the air (B) breaks the venting ban, and using the refrigerant anyway (C) puts air into customers' systems. Adding virgin CFC-12 (D) does not remove the non-condensable gas.

Source: 40 CFR Part 82 Subpart B, Appendix A (SAE J1989 procedure), SAE J1989 §5.4–5.7 and Table 1; MACS Section 609 Certification Training Manual (rev. 01/2025), printed p. 29, limitations of pressure-temperature identification

Answer: C. No, unless the buyer is 608/609-certified, employs one with proof, or resells

Since January 1, 2018, the sales restriction has covered non-exempt substitutes such as R-134a and R-1234yf. Allowed buyers include Section 608- and 609-certified technicians, employers who prove they employ one, and resellers. The 2-pound-or-less small-can exemption does not cover this 30-pound cylinder; the rule also has eligibility provisions for employers, resellers, and other specified buyers. Buying refrigerant under Section 608 or through an eligible employer does not authorize the buyer to perform paid MVAC service without Section 609 certification. A and B reflect the rules for substitutes before 2018.

Source: 40 CFR 82.154 — venting and sales restriction, (c)(1); EPA: Refrigerant Sales Restriction, Requirements to Purchase Refrigerant; 40 CFR 82.34 — prohibitions, (a)(2), certification for paid MVAC service

Answer: D. No; Section 609 alone does not qualify the buyer for R-410A

Section 609 purchase eligibility applies to refrigerants acceptable for MVACs; it does not extend to R-410A for a home mini-split. Section 608 certification is the relevant technician credential. The rule also permits an employer to purchase with proof of employing a Section 608-certified technician, but a note proving only Section 609 certification (C) is not enough. The work itself is also Section 608 territory. The shared HFC chemistry (B) doesn't change which credential applies.

Source: EPA: Refrigerant Sales Restriction, Requirements to Purchase Refrigerant; EPA: Section 608 and Section 609 Overlap, Refrigerant Sales Restriction; 40 CFR 82.154 — refrigerant sales restriction, (c)(1)(i)–(iv)

Answer: B. $124,426

For violations after November 2, 2015, with penalties assessed on or after January 8, 2025, 40 CFR 19.4 lists $124,426 per day per violation under 42 U.S.C. 7413(b). $25,000 (A) is the amount as originally enacted, and $37,500 (C) is an older adjusted figure. EPA updates this table periodically. The $10,000 choice (D) is not the maximum in this row. Some training booklets print older numbers; ask the program to resolve any conflict rather than treating an obsolete figure as current law.

Source: 40 CFR 19.4, Table 1 — inflation-adjusted penalties, Table 1, row 42 U.S.C. 7413(b); 42 U.S.C. 7413 — Federal enforcement, subsection (b), per-day/per-violation basis; dollar amount adjusted by 40 CFR 19.4

Answer: A. The final person in the disposal chain

EPA's safe disposal rule puts the job on the final person in the disposal chain. That person must remove the refrigerant or make sure it was removed before the vehicle is disposed of. Disposal of MVACs falls under Section 608, which is why the rule isn't in the Section 609 servicing sections.

Source: EPA: Regulatory Requirements for MVAC System Servicing, Safe Disposal Requirements; EPA: Section 608 and Section 609 Overlap, overview paragraph; 40 CFR 82.155 — safe disposal, (b), final processor recovery or verification