When is it prohibited to use system-dependent recovery equipment?

Using system-dependent recovery equipment is prohibited when the appliance holds over 15 pounds of refrigerant because such equipment relies on the system pressure to facilitate the recovery process. When the refrigerant charge exceeds 15 pounds, there are regulations in place to ensure effective recovery and compliance with environmental guidelines.

System-dependent recovery methods are not sufficient for larger charges as these systems could leave behind a significant amount of refrigerant, which would not only violate EPA regulations but also contribute to environmental harm. For appliances with over 15 pounds of refrigerant, specialized recovery equipment designed for the task that can actively remove refrigerant regardless of system pressure must be used to ensure complete recovery. This is crucial for effective management of refrigerants and compliance with regulations that aim to minimize refrigerant emissions into the atmosphere.