Definition
EPA Section 608 certification is the federal credential, under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, for technicians who maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants. EPA offers Type I, Type II, Type III and Universal certification; Type II covers high-pressure equipment, including residential split air conditioners and heat pumps.
Also called: EPA 608
Why it matters to you.
Any technician who connects gauges to, recovers refrigerant from or recharges your air conditioner or heat pump needs this certification, and Section 608 prohibits intentionally venting refrigerant. It is separate from the Kentucky HVAC license issued through the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, which covers the contractor doing the work.
Practical guidance.
It is reasonable to ask whether the technician working on your refrigerant circuit is Section 608-certified, and to confirm the contractor's Kentucky HVAC license number. Homeowners should never buy, add or release refrigerant themselves.
About this definition
Written by the Feistritzer Heating & Air Conditioning team — family owned and operated in Danville since 1976, Kentucky HVAC license M02584. Definitions inform; a whole-system diagnosis in your home decides.