When venting refrigerant from a graduated charging cylinder, what must be done?

Refrigerants are classified as regulated substances under the Clean Air Act, which mandates that they must not be released into the atmosphere due to their potential role in ozone depletion and contribution to climate change. When venting refrigerant from a graduated charging cylinder, it is crucial to adhere to the laws and regulations concerning the proper handling of refrigerants.

Recovering refrigerant ensures that it is not released into the environment, aligning with best practices for environmental protection and compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations. Responsible refrigerant management also reduces the risk of potential fines and penalties associated with improper handling.

Other options do not comply with legal requirements. Releasing refrigerant into the atmosphere not only contravenes regulations but also poses environmental risks. Leaving refrigerant in the cylinder without recovery could contravene safety protocols and environmental standards, while reabsorbing into the system is impractical unless properly designed for such a purpose. Therefore, recovering the refrigerant is the appropriate procedure when venting from a graduated charging cylinder.