EPA 608 Universal
EPA 608 Universal Certification Overview
The EPA 608 Universal Certification is a federally required credential for HVAC technicians who handle refrigerants. Administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this certification ensures that technicians understand how to safely and legally service appliances that contain ozone-depleting refrigerants.
The Universal classification covers all three equipment categories—Type I (small appliances), Type II (high-pressure systems), and Type III (low-pressure systems)—making it the most comprehensive and valuable version of the EPA 608 Certification. Earning this certification is a critical step for anyone pursuing a career in HVAC installation, maintenance, or repair.
Our comprehensive training prepares you for this certification exam.
Key Knowledge Areas Covered:
Core Section (Required for All Types)
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Refrigerant types and properties
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Ozone depletion and environmental impact
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EPA regulations and technician responsibilities
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Recovery, recycling, and reclamation procedures
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Safety procedures and best practices
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Cylinder handling, labeling, and storage
Type I: Small Appliances
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Servicing appliances with less than 5 pounds of refrigerant
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Recovery equipment and procedures for sealed systems
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Leak detection techniques and repair guidelines
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Disposal and recovery requirements for small units
Type II: High-Pressure Appliances
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Systems with refrigerants such as R-410A, R-22, and R-134a
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Leak testing procedures under EPA guidelines
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Recovery and charging best practices
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Major component replacement (compressors, receivers, etc.)
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System-dependent and self-contained recovery equipment
Type III: Low-Pressure Appliances
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Systems using refrigerants like R-123 and other low-pressure gases
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Evacuation and dehydration procedures
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Leak detection in low-pressure chillers
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Use of pressurizing gases and their limitations
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Specialized safety concerns for low-pressure systems
Regulatory Compliance
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Section 608 of the Clean Air Act
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Recordkeeping and reporting obligations
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Prohibited practices and legal consequences
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Technician certification and EPA enforcement policies