When using a system-dependent recovery system on an appliance that has a non-operating compressor, the technician should

• A. Place on the low side only
• B. Place on both sides of the system.
• C. Place on the high side only
• D. Do not place any access fittings

Answer: (B)

When a recovery method relies on the appliance’s own compressor, you must provide two paths for the refrigerant to leave the system if the compressor isn’t operating. Connecting the recovery equipment to both the high-pressure and low-pressure sides gives the unit a complete route to evacuate the charge, drawing out both vapor and any liquid that may be residing in the evaporator or condenser side. If you only connect to one side, refrigerant can remain trapped in the other side, making full recovery impossible. Not connecting at all is, of course, ineffective. So, placing access fittings on both sides ensures all refrigerant is removed from the system even when the compressor isn’t running.