What is the regulatory date on which recovery equipment for small appliances must be certified by an EPA-approved laboratory?

The correct answer is based on the regulatory guidelines set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the certification of refrigerant recovery equipment. Specifically, recovery equipment for small appliances must be certified by an EPA-approved laboratory by November 15, 1993. This date marks a critical point in the enforcement of regulations aimed at minimizing the release of refrigerants into the environment, which can contribute to ozone depletion and climate change.

The requirement for EPA-approved certification ensures that recovery equipment meets specific performance standards for reclaiming refrigerants, thus supporting compliance with the Clean Air Act regulations. By establishing this certification date, the EPA aimed to standardize the quality and effectiveness of recovery equipment used in the HVAC industry, particularly for small appliances where the impact of improper refrigerant handling could be significant.

The other dates do not align with the established regulations for certification of recovery equipment. Understanding these key dates is vital for those pursuing certification and working within regulatory compliance to protect the environment from harmful refrigerants.