Refrigerant can only be sold to technicians certified under the Section 608 or Section 609 technician certification programs, where individuals may only purchase refrigerant consistent with the appliances covered by their certification.
Only Section 608 certified technicians can purchase refrigerants intended for use with stationary refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment.
On January 1, 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the production and import of R-22. But units manufactured in 2009 and earlier still use R-22 today. Its use will eventually be eliminated in the U.S., so all current and future homeowners must be prepared for the transition.
Complying with Section 608 Refrigerant Handling Rule
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires certification for anyone handling R-22, MO99, R-407C, R-134A, or R-410a refrigerants.
New Regulations Effective from 2025
This includes refrigerants like R410A and R407C, which will no longer be permitted in such systems.
For example, if you do not have Section 608 certification, you can buy small cans of less than 2 lbs of HFC-134a.
New EPA Refrigerant Regulations 2025
In 2025, the goal is to eliminate all refrigerants with a high Global Warming Potential. In practice, this means that all new AC units must use refrigerants with a GWP rating of 750 or less.
It's possible to add Freon to your air conditioner unit yourself, but you'll need some general knowledge about ACs and a few specific tools to do it correctly. The process can be dangerous, so hire a qualified professional if you feel unsure about what to do.
Do you need a license to buy R-410A refrigerant? You do not need an EPA license to purchase R-410A. However, you do need a license to use it to charge a system. While we encourage responsible DIYers, there are some things you should definitely leave to a trained HVAC professional.
So, you can't buy Freon from Home Depot for your HVAC needs. The good news is that you can still get it, though. At Lowery, we've still got you covered. Lowery will keep you cool-headed as temperatures (and Freon costs) rise!
While it is not usually illegal to install an air conditioning unit in your own home, there are several important factors to consider before taking on this DIY project. Local building codes, refrigerant handling, electrical work, and proper sizing and placement are all critical aspects of a successful installation.
To be certified, technicians must be trained by an EPA-approved program and pass a test demonstrating their knowledge in these areas. The following companies and programs are approved by EPA to train and certify individuals under section 609 of the Clean Air Act.
Refrigerant can only be sold to technicians certified under the Section 608 or Section 609 technician certification programs, where individuals may only purchase refrigerant consistent with the appliances covered by their certification.
You are required to have an EPA Section 608 Type II or Universal certification license to handle R-410A, but no license is legally necessary for purchase.
An AC leak will lead to warmer air from your vents over time. In most cases this can be fixed with a proven stop leak additive to seal up any leaks. When it's time for an AC recharge, turn to AutoZone.
The EPA began phasing out HCFCs in 2010 and officially banned their production and import in 2020. As Freon was phased out, new HVAC systems began using a refrigerant known as Puron® or R-410A, an HFC.
Adding Freon to an AC unit is not a typical DIY project. It requires working with a dangerous chemical, a pressurized tank, and intricate equipment. Any part of the process going wrong can permanently damage your AC unit or cause injury to yourself. Contact a local HVAC professional for this type of service.
This chemical compound absorbs heat from indoor air and releases it outside, effectively cooling your home. However, Freon has a negative environmental impact that's prompted its gradual phase-out. As of January 2020, the production and import of Freon in the U.S. is completely banned.
In December 2022, the EPA unveiled a refrigerant ban that will go into effect between 2025 and 2026 (depending on the industry). The result? R-410A is out, shaking up the HVACR industry, which relies heavily on this refrigerant.
Only a licensed HVAC service professional with the right tools and training should replace Freon in an AC unit. Replacing Freon on your own involves the following risks: Health Hazards: Freon and other refrigerants are toxic.
R-410A refrigerant prices range from $40 to $75 per pound. To replace R-410A refrigerant in your leaky AC, you will need to hire an HVAC professional since the EPA prohibits handling AC refrigerant without a license.
Question #3: If I don't have Section 608 certification, I can buy 3 lb cans of R-134a. False! The small can exemption only covers cans of non-exempt substitute refrigerant up to 2 lbs. Since R-134a is an HFC, it is a non-exempt substitute.
Any person servicing, installing or disposing of stationary appliances (except the disposal of small appliances) must be a section 608 certified technician. Selling refrigerant to an individual or company that is not complying with this requirement could result in enforcement action against you or your company.
EPA regulations (40 CFR Part 82, Subpart F ) under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act restrict the resale of used ozone-depleting and substitute (e.g., HFC) refrigerant to a new owner unless it has been reclaimed by an EPA-certified refrigerant reclaimer.
EPA requires a section 608 certification regardless of refrigerant type based on the type of appliance (Type I, Type II, Type III, or Universal).