What should you always do when connecting your service manifold to check system pressures?

When connecting your service manifold to check system pressures, the most important practice is to minimize any potential release using hand valves or self-sealing hoses. This is crucial because handling refrigerants can be dangerous, and even small releases can pose safety risks due to hazards such as frostbite from extremely cold refrigerants or the presence of flammable substances. Using hand valves carefully and utilizing self-sealing hoses can help prevent refrigerant from escaping into the environment, thereby promoting both safety and compliance with environmental regulations.

While other choices might involve safety measures, this particular practice directly addresses the need to control the release of refrigerants, which is a key aspect of responsible refrigerant management during service operations. It ensures that technicians can safely and efficiently work on systems without risking exposure to refrigerants or contributing to environmental harm.