What is EPA 608?
Scientists discovered that refrigerants containing chlorine were harming the Ozone Layer, which protects the earth from harmful UV rays. Hence, the federal government approved the Clean Air Act in 1970. Above all, it outlines the EPA’s role in protecting air quality. Thusly, the Environmental Protection Agency is now responsible for maintaining laws regarding Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS). Section 608 of the Clean Air Act identifies how to handle, use, and rate global warming or ozone-depleting refrigerants. Specifically, these laws refer to technicians servicing air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
EPA 608 and Energy Efficiency Building Standards
Therefore, any technician handling refrigerants or equipment containing them must be EPA 608 certified. As HERS Raters, BarrierEnergy often deals with air conditioning and commercial refrigeration. We inspect these systems to verify that their efficiencies match the energy calculations from a project’s building plans. Foremost, our HERS Raters had to study the Environmental Protection Agency’s laws and pass rigorous exams. We must know how cooling systems function, how to service them, what different types of refrigerants are, and much more! Our EPA 608 certificates confirm us as licensed HVACR (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) technicians. As a result, we are able to test cooling equipment without releasing harmful substances into the atmosphere.
Keep in mind that there are different levels of EPA 608 Certification. First, there is Type 1 Certification. Type 1 covers appliances with 5 pounds or less of refrigerants, such as small air conditioners and residential fridges. Then, Type 2 includes medium and high-pressure appliances. Some examples in this category are a typical residential air conditioning system, heat pumps, rooftop units, and commercial refrigeration. Lastly, Type 3 encompasses low-pressure appliances such as mega AC systems and industrial AC. Each new level requires its own exam questions, which must be administered by an EPA-approved licensing facility.
Environmental Stewardship
For BarrierEnergy, protecting the environment is a top priority. Our team has a true passion for service that arises from doing work that we know is making a positive difference in the world. In conclusion, we are able to perform with pride in our efforts. Thanks to the Environmental Protection Agency, the California Energy Commission, and other independent agencies we have a bright future to look forward to. To receive notifications about future posts, consider subscribing to our blog. Continue reading about protecting the environment on our page for Home Energy Rating Checkups.
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