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 heat pump or air conditioner needs this certification, and Section 608 prohibits intentionally venting refrigerant. It is separate from the Washington L&I contractor registration and Oregon CCB license that cover the contracting business.
Practical guidance
It is reasonable to ask whether the technician working on your refrigerant circuit is Section 608-certified, and to look up a contractor's Washington L&I registration or Oregon CCB license. Homeowners should never buy, add or release refrigerant themselves.
About this definition
Written by the Home Energy Group team — a family-owned HVAC company celebrating 25 years of comfort & care across SW Washington and the Portland metro, licensed in Washington (WA LIC# HOMEEGI003J7) and Oregon (OR CCB# 184255). Definitions inform; an on-site diagnosis decides.
