Describe the process of refrigerant recovery from a small appliance.

The process of refrigerant recovery from a small appliance requires the use of recovery equipment to ensure that all refrigerant is safely extracted and properly managed. Connecting recovery equipment allows for the efficient transfer of refrigerant from the appliance into the recovery device. By running the compressor or a recovery pump, the system can effectively draw out the refrigerant, which is essential for preventing environmental harm and adhering to safety regulations.

The use of recovery equipment is crucial because it is designed to capture refrigerants in a way that is compliant with environmental standards, such as those set by the EPA. Recovery methods involve using machines that can handle the specific types of refrigerants present in the appliance. This approach not only ensures that the refrigerant is contained and does not escape into the atmosphere but also prepares it for safe disposal or recycling.

Using alternative methods, such as removing the compressor or manually extracting refrigerant, can lead to improper venting of refrigerants into the air, which is environmentally harmful and illegal under Federal laws governing refrigerant management. Disconnecting the power supply is an important safety precaution but does not directly pertain to the recovery process itself. Thus, connecting the recovery equipment and running the compressor or recovery pump is the appropriate step to efficiently recover refrigerant from small appliances.