HVAC - EPA Certification Practice Exam 2025 - Free EPA Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

Before using recovery equipment, it is essential to check the oil levels in the recovery unit. This is because the compressor and recovery system rely on adequate lubrication to function correctly and effectively remove refrigerants from the system. Insufficient oil levels can lead to equipment failure or inefficient operation, which could in turn pose risks related to safety and performance.

Ensuring proper oil levels helps maintain the reliability of the recovery equipment and prevents damage that could occur due to lack of lubrication. In addition to oil levels, other maintenance checks may be necessary, but verifying that the recovery unit has adequate oil is a fundamental step that should not be overlooked.

The other choices relate to different operational procedures or maintenance practices, which, while important, are not the primary requirement before starting the use of recovery equipment. For instance, calibration of pressure gauges is essential for accurate readings but does not precede the use of recovery equipment as a requirement. Evacuating the refrigerant lines is part of the recovery process itself, and replacing old hoses may be necessary for safety but is more related to preventive maintenance rather than a prerequisite before equipment use. Thus, checking oil levels stands as an essential and immediate requirement.