Which practice is important when using refrigerant recovery equipment?

Maintaining a continuous vacuum is crucial when using refrigerant recovery equipment because it ensures that the refrigerant is effectively removed from the system without any leaks or residual gas remaining. A continuous vacuum helps to minimize the risk of refrigerant entering the atmosphere, thereby protecting the environment and complying with regulations regarding refrigerant handling.

Additionally, it aids in achieving complete recovery, which is essential to prevent contamination of the refrigerant and to ensure that the system can be serviced or repaired without issues. Properly maintaining a vacuum also ensures that the equipment operates efficiently and safely, reducing the likelihood of potential hazards associated with refrigerant leaks.

In contrast, using gloves, while important for personal safety and protection against refrigerant exposure, does not directly impact the efficiency of the recovery process. Dumping refrigerant into the atmosphere is not only illegal but also harmful to the environment. Monitoring refrigerant usage can provide valuable data but does not specifically relate to the immediate practice of using recovery equipment effectively.