EPA 608 Core Concepts — Complete Topic Guide
The Core section is mandatory for ALL EPA 608 certification types. It covers the foundational knowledge every HVAC technician must master. This guide breaks down every major topic tested on the Core exam (25 questions, 70% to pass).
1. Environmental Regulations
Montreal Protocol (1987), Clean Air Act amendments, ozone depletion science. Understand which international treaties and US laws govern refrigerant handling.
2. Legal Requirements & Penalties
Maximum civil penalty of $44,539 per day per violation for knowingly venting. The venting prohibition took effect July 1, 1992. Know the three certification types (Type I, II, III).
3. Refrigerant Classification
CFCs (R-12) → HCFCs (R-22) → HFCs (R-410A) → HFOs (R-454B). Each family has distinct ODP, GWP, and regulatory status. This is tested extensively.
4. AIM Act 2026 & A2L Transition
R-410A phased out for new residential equipment as of January 1, 2025. Replacements R-454B and R-32 are A2L (mildly flammable). New tracking threshold: 15 lbs for HFC appliances.
5. Recovery, Recycling & Reclamation
Recovery = pulling refrigerant into a container. Recycling = on-site cleaning for reuse. Reclamation = ARI-700 standard reprocessing to virgin specifications.
6. Safety Fundamentals
Proper brazing with nitrogen purge, refrigerant cylinder handling, asphyxiation hazard awareness, and A2L flammable refrigerant safety procedures.