When is it against EPA regulations to use system-dependent recovery equipment? (A) A) When the appliance contains over 15 pounds of refrigerant. (B) B) When the appliance is leaking. (C) When the compressor of the appliance is operational. (D) D) When the ambient temperature is over 105 degrees \( F \).

The correct answer is: **(A) When the appliance contains over 15 pounds of refrigerant.** ### Explanation: Under the **Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Section 608** regulations, specific rules govern the recovery of refrigerants from appliances. These rules are particularly important to prevent the release of harmful refrigerants into the atmosphere. - **15-Pound Threshold:** EPA regulations specify that appliances containing **more than 15 pounds of refrigerant** cannot use system-dependent recovery equipment. Instead, they must employ high-capacity recovery machines designed to handle larger quantities safely and efficiently. - **System-Dependent Recovery Equipment:** These are typically designed for smaller systems and may not be equipped to manage or contain refrigerants beyond the specified limit, posing environmental and safety risks if used improperly. - **Other Options:** - **(B) When the appliance is leaking:** While it's illegal to recover refrigerants from a leaking system without proper repairs, this scenario is more about the condition of the appliance rather than the specifications of the recovery equipment. - **(C) When the compressor of the appliance is operational:** EPA regulations require the compressor to be shut off during recovery, but this is a procedural requirement rather than a restriction on the type of recovery equipment. - **(D) When the ambient temperature is over 105 degrees \( F \):** Temperature can affect recovery efficiency but isn't a direct regulatory limit on the use of system-dependent recovery equipment. ### Key Takeaway: Always ensure that the recovery equipment you use complies with EPA regulations, especially concerning the quantity of refrigerant in the appliance. For appliances containing more than **15 pounds** of refrigerant, high-capacity recovery equipment is mandated to prevent environmental harm. **Answer:** A) When the appliance contains over 15 pounds of refrigerant.