A refrigeration system containing 50 kg of R-407C has developed a leak. The technician has confirmed the leak with an electronic leak detector and is ready to recover the charge. What level of recovery is required by Canadian regulations for this amount of refrigerant?

Question: A refrigeration system containing 50 kg of R-407C has developed a leak. The technician has confirmed the leak with an electronic leak detector and is ready to recover the charge. What level of recovery is required by Canadian regulations for this amount of refrigerant?

Answer options:

• The charge must be recovered to a level no greater than 100 kPa (absolute) or 0 psig. ✅ All refrigerant must be recovered to a deep vacuum of 1000 microns.
• Only the amount needed for the repair needs to be recovered, leaving the rest in the system.
• A visual indication of no liquid in the sight glass is sufficient.

Correct answer: All refrigerant must be recovered to a deep vacuum of 1000 microns.

Explanation: According to the Ozone-depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations (CEPA), for appliances with a charge of 10 kg or more, the refrigerant must be recovered to a deep vacuum of 1000 microns (0.133 kPa absolute). This is crucial to minimize atmospheric releases and maximize recovery efficiency for larger systems.