Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Air Conditioner Certification 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The first step in the recommended procedure for recharging an A/C system is to recover the old refrigerant. This step is critical because it ensures that any remaining refrigerant in the system is properly collected and disposed of in accordance with environmental regulations. Recovering the refrigerant helps to prevent contamination of the new refrigerant and allows for an assessment of the system's condition, including the amount of refrigerant previously used, before introducing new refrigerant.

Additionally, recovering the refrigerant before introducing any new fluid helps to avoid pressures exceeding manufacturer specifications, which can lead to further system damage or safety hazards during the recharging process. This practice is not only a safety measure but is also required by law in many jurisdictions to protect the environment from harmful refrigerants.

Subsequent steps, such as checking for leaks or vacuuming the system, are essential but should occur after recovering the old refrigerant. This systematic approach ensures the proper functioning and longevity of the A/C system.