Flammable Refrigerant Course

Safety Procedures for New Refrigerants

What you'll learn

Master refrigeration fundamentals, PT chart interpretation, and flammable refrigerant properties for safe system operation.

Interpret safety documentation, apply DOT regulations, implement safety protocols, and calculate flammability limits for safe working conditions.

Select specialized tools and equipment, use proper connections, and calculate safe refrigerant quantities for flammable refrigerant applications.

Execute proper vacuum procedures, perform leak testing, apply correct charging techniques, and implement safe service protocols.

Compare traditional methods with new requirements, troubleshoot system issues, and demonstrate competency through practical application.

Requirements

Basic HVAC Fundamentals - Understanding of refrigeration cycle, system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion device), and basic thermodynamic principles. EPA Certification - Valid EPA Section 608 certification demonstrating knowledge of refrigerant handling, recovery, and environmental regulations. Electrical Safety - Basic understanding of electrical circuits, components, and safety procedures including lockout/tagout (LOTO) practices. Hand Tools and Gauges - Experience using manifold gauges, vacuum pumps, leak detectors, and standard HVAC service tools. Refrigerant Handling - Previous experience with traditional refrigerants (R-22, R-410A) including recovery, evacuation, and charging procedures. Safety Protocols - General workplace safety awareness and experience with personal protective equipment (PPE) in industrial/commercial environments.

Description

This comprehensive course provides HVAC technicians and service professionals with essential knowledge and practical skills for safely working with new flammable refrigerants. As the industry transitions to more environmentally friendly refrigerants, many of which are flammable , technicians must understand the unique safety requirements, handling procedures, and installation techniques required for these systems. The course covers fundamental refrigeration principles, safety protocols, proper equipment usage, and regulatory compliance requirements specific to flammable refrigerants. Through detailed explanations, real-world examples, and safety case studies, participants will gain the confidence and expertise needed to work safely and effectively with these new refrigerant technologies. Learning ObjectivesUpon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:Technical Knowledge and TheoryExplain the fundamental principles of refrigeration, including superheating and subcooling concepts, as they apply to new refrigerant blends.Interpret pressure-temperature (PT) charts correctly, including understanding dewpoint and bubble point relationships for refrigerant blends.Identify the properties and characteristics of hydrogen-based and other flammable refrigerants currently used in the field.Safety and Regulatory ComplianceAnalyze Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and interpret hazardous material triangle symbols, numbers, and color codes for flammable refrigerants.Apply Department of Transportation requirements and regulations for handling and transporting flammable refrigerants.Implement proper safety precautions and mitigation strategies when working with flammable refrigerants in various environments.Calculate and apply lower flammability limits to ensure safe working conditions.Equipment and ToolsEvaluate and select appropriate tools, gauges, and leak detectors for use with flammable refrigerants.Demonstrate proper use of specialized connections and fittings required for flammable refrigerant systems.Calculate safe refrigerant quantities for recovery bottles to prevent hydrostatic pressure rupture.Installation and Service ProceduresExecute proper vacuum procedures, achieving and maintaining 500 microns or better.Perform triple evacuation procedures and verify system integrity through appropriate leak testing methods.Apply correct refrigerant charging techniques and system flushing procedures for new installations.Implement safe service and maintenance procedures for flammable refrigerant systems, including proper handling of electrical components and capacitor testing/discharge procedures.Problem-Solving and ApplicationCompare traditional refrigerant handling methods with new requirements for flammable refrigerants.Troubleshoot common issues that may arise during the installation and service of flammable refrigerant systems.Demonstrate understanding through practical application exercises and assessment questions.

Overview

Section 1: Intro: Refrigeration Fundamentals and PT Chart Analysis

Lecture 1 Understanding Dewpoint, Bubble Point, and the Evolution to Flammable Refrigerant

Section 2: Refrigeration Fundamentals and New Refrigerant Introduction Description

Lecture 2 Safety: Vacuum Procedures, Leak Detection, and Charging Protocols

Section 3: Safety and Regulatory Compliance

Lecture 3 Understanding Flammable Refrigerant Properties and Historical Hazards

Section 4: Tools, Equipment, and Installation Procedures Description

Lecture 4 Recovery Bottles, Leak Testing, and Proper Charging Methods

Section 5: Advanced Installation and Safety Protocols

Lecture 5 Lower Flammability Limits, Electrical Safety, and Final Assessment

HVAC Technicians - Service and installation technicians who need certification to work with A2L and A3 flammable refrigerants in residential and commercial systems. Refrigeration Mechanics - Commercial and industrial refrigeration professionals transitioning to equipment using flammable refrigerant blends. HVAC Contractors and Business Owners - Company owners and supervisors responsible for ensuring their teams are properly trained and compliant with new refrigerant regulations. Equipment Installers - Technicians installing new heat pumps, air conditioners, and refrigeration equipment that use flammable refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B. Maintenance Personnel - Building maintenance staff and facility managers who service HVAC equipment containing flammable refrigerants. HVAC Students and Apprentices - Trade school students and apprentices preparing to enter the field as flammable refrigerants become industry standard. Safety Managers - Environmental health and safety professionals overseeing HVAC operations in commercial and industrial facilities. Equipment Distributors and Sales - Supply house personnel and equipment sales representatives who need technical knowledge to properly advise customers. Code Officials and Inspectors - Building inspectors and code enforcement officials who need to understand flammable refrigerant safety requirements and installation standards. Existing Certified Technicians - EPA-certified professionals updating their skills to meet new industry requirements and expand their service capabilities.