What must an owner of a commercial refrigeration appliance charged with 2000 pounds of R-22 do after exceeding a leak rate threshold?

When a commercial refrigeration appliance, such as one charged with 2000 pounds of R-22, exceeds a specified leak rate threshold, the owner must take further action, which includes options like repairing, retiring, mothballing, or retrofitting the appliance. This requirement stems from regulations put in place to minimize the environmental impact of refrigerant leaks. R-22, a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), is known for its ozone-depleting potential, making it crucial for owners to address leaks rather than simply ignoring them or opting for less responsible actions.

Repairing the appliance would involve fixing the leaks to ensure that the refrigerant remains contained, which is beneficial for both environmental compliance and economic reasons. Retiring or mothballing the appliance can be an effective option if repairs are not feasible, allowing the owner to responsibly discontinue its use while considering alternatives. Retrofitting could involve replacing the R-22 with a more environmentally friendly refrigerant, thus aligning with broader goals of reducing harm to the ozone layer.

The other choices do not align with the regulations that aim to mitigate refrigerant leakage and its associated environmental consequences. For example, disposing of the appliance immediately might not be practical or responsible, as it would not address the