Discussing the Topics of Your EPA 608 Certification Exam – Part 2

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces regulations affecting our environment and the protection of our ozone layer. For technicians working with refrigerants, the EPA requires certification to properly and safely handle these materials. Improper use of HVAC equipment under pressure can result in injury or damage to the environment, which is why technicians must achieve their EPA 608 certification before maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of refrigerant-containing equipment.

To be ready for your EPA test, it helps to understand the topics covered for each certification type. Mainstream Engineering Corporation and EPATest.com provide complete support and EPA certification services, relying on our resources and proctors to help technicians get a hand up in this dynamic industry. We offer a range of EPA certificates, including EPA 608.Our last blog covered the core section of Section 608. In today’s post, we will look more into the specific types of equipment to be worked on. Keep reading to learn more, and download our study guide to begin preparing for your EPA 608 exam.

Type 1 – Small Appliances

Technicians tasked with working with five pounds of refrigerant or less can opt for their Type I Certification. This section of the test focuses specifically on identifying small appliances, the proper recovery percentage, and evacuation techniques. Technicians are quizzed on content ranging from static concerns to recovery methods, equipment use, HFC substitutions, and more. You can, for example, rely on your charging cylinder to safely store the refrigerant during service until the refrigerant is placed back into the system.

Type 1 is an open-book exam, and we recommend familiarizing yourself with what a small appliance is and how to properly identify the refrigerant you are working with. Understanding the proper use of access valves when the compressor is not working is also important.

Type 2 – High-Pressure Appliances

With high-pressure appliances, technicians need to keep a closer eye on leak detection to ensure there is no leakage before charging the equipment. This part of the test covers recovery techniques and requirements, leak repair requirements, general safety and handling, and refrigeration components. Technicians must be able to identify how to properly service high-pressure appliances while minimizing leaks or emissions.

Vehicles such as buses, trains, and off-road equipment could rely on cooling systems using high-pressure refrigerants, but an MVAC Section 609 certification (for most vehicle cooling systems) will not suffice. A Section 608 Type II (or universal) certification is required for operating on refrigerants such as R-22, R-407C, or R-410A.

Type 3 – Low-Pressure Appliances

EPA 608 Type III is similar to the Type 2 test. The structure of each test covers the same components, but low-pressure systems can operate much differently than high-pressure systems. Technicians need to focus on leak detection and pressurization tests to ensure they are performing the best service. The test also covers information regarding “major” and “non-major” repairs, as well as the difference in recovery and recycling equipment before/after November 15, 1993.

Before you take this section of the EPA 608 exam, brush up on proper recharging techniques and evacuation requirements. Our study guide provides a breakdown of safe handling and effective recovery.

Achieve Your Universal Certification

After you successfully pass the 25-question tests for each section (Core, Type I, Type II, and Type III), you are awarded a Universal Certification. This is the recommended route for technicians, because it provides a broad range of knowledge and is often preferred versus taking EPA tests individually. Mainstream Engineering Corporation offers the training and resources to help you achieve your EPA 608 certification, including 100 test questions to complete all four sections.

Get Started Today

Industry professionals have long relied on Mainstream Engineering and EPATest.com to provide materials, support, and testing services. Our EPA certification services are available online and in person to help you grow your skill-set as a technician and pave the way for bigger job opportunities.

Browse our EPA certifications for Section 608, 609, R-410A, IAQ, Green HVAC/R, and more, and contact us if you have any questions. You can also browse our shop for EPA certificates, patches, and stickers.