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

Before disposing of a refrigeration unit, it is necessary to recover and properly dispose of all refrigerant. This requirement is crucial to prevent environmental harm, as refrigerants can contribute to ozone depletion and global warming if released into the atmosphere. The regulations established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandate that technicians must ensure complete recovery of refrigerants from cooling systems before disposal. This not only protects the environment but also complies with legal and safety standards regarding hazardous materials.

The other options do not align with these regulations. Free release of refrigerant is strictly prohibited. Dismantling the unit before recovering refrigerant could lead to leaks, and selling the unit to an unlicensed technician would not ensure the proper handling and disposal of the refrigerant. Proper recovery and disposal are essential steps that align with environmental safety practices.