What is the primary purpose of using a recovery cylinder?

The primary purpose of using a recovery cylinder is to store refrigerant temporarily. When servicing HVAC systems, technicians need to remove refrigerants for various reasons, such as repairs, maintenance, or system decommissioning. The recovery cylinder allows for the safe and proper storage of these refrigerants, preventing them from being released into the atmosphere and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

Recovery cylinders are specifically designed to hold refrigerants under high pressure and are constructed with materials that can withstand these pressures without risk of leaking. This makes them an essential tool in HVAC service for protecting both the technician and the environment.

In contrast, charging a system involves delivering refrigerant into a compressor or system, which is a different process requiring specialized equipment. The release of refrigerants into the atmosphere is illegal and harmful to the environment, so this option does not align with proper HVAC practices. Weighing refrigerant is a step taken during charging or recovery, but it is not the primary function of the recovery cylinder itself.