How to Get CFC Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting CFC certification is an important step for HVAC technicians who want to advance their careers. The EPA 608 certification allows technicians to legally handle refrigerants during installation, service, and repair of air conditioning and refrigeration systems. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to get CFC certification.

Overview of CFC Certification

CFC stands for chlorofluorocarbon, which refers to ozone-depleting refrigerants that contain chlorine, fluorine and carbon. The most common CFC refrigerants are R-11, R-12, R-113, R-114 and R-115.

In 1987, many countries signed the Montreal Protocol to phase out CFCs and replace them with more ozone-friendly refrigerants like HFCs. However, CFC refrigerants are still found in older AC systems. Technicians need proper certification to handle these refrigerants during service and repair.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers four types of Section 608 Certification for handling refrigerants

• Type I – Servicing small appliances
• Type II – Servicing medium, high and very high pressure appliances
• Type III – Servicing low pressure appliances
• Universal – Servicing all appliances

The CFC certification exam covers core knowledge on refrigeration, regulations, environmental impacts, recovery and safety procedures Passing this exam allows technicians to legally purchase and handle CFC refrigerants while servicing equipment

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

To be eligible for CFC certification, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Able to provide two forms of ID (one with a photo)
• Have no felony convictions related to ozone-depleting substances
• Be employed or an apprentice at an HVAC company
• Have a high school diploma or GED (not required in all states)

Some certifications may require 1-2 years of HVAC work experience. Check your state’s requirements to ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying.

Step 2: Decide on Certification Type

You can get certified in one or more types of refrigerants. Each has its own exam:

• Type I – Servicing small appliances with 5 lbs or less of refrigerant. The exam has 25 questions and lasts 30 minutes.

• Type II – Servicing medium, high and very high pressure appliances except small appliances and MVACs. The exam has 25 questions and lasts 30 minutes.

• Type III – Servicing low pressure appliances. The exam has 25 questions and lasts 30 minutes.

• Universal – Servicing all types of equipment. The exam has 100 questions and lasts 150 minutes. This is the most comprehensive certification.

The Universal certification covers all refrigerants and appliance types. It demonstrates well-rounded expertise to employers. Many technicians start with this exam.

Step 3: Register for the Exam

You can take the CFC exam through an EPA-approved testing organization. Some offer online or in-person testing. The cost ranges from $25-$150 depending on exam type.

Here are some certified test providers:

• ESCO Institute – Online or in-person testing in 200+ U.S. locations.

• Mainstream Engineering – 225+ U.S. test centers. Online proctoring available.

• Reciprocity Inc. – 170+ U.S. locations. Testing 7 days a week.

Compare locations, costs and formats to choose the best test provider for you. Some employers may reimburse the exam fee if you pass.

Step 4: Study and Prepare

All Sections 608 exams cover core knowledge of refrigeration, regulations, leak detection, recovery, safety and environmental impacts.

• Read EPA’s Section 608 Certification Exam Preparatory Manual cover to cover. This covers all key topics.

• Take practice tests to identify knowledge gaps. ESCI, Mainstream and other providers offer practice tests.

• Enroll in online training courses for refrigerant handling. Some courses provide exam vouchers.

• Study definitions, recovery procedures, safety protocols, environmental impacts and transport/storage rules.

• Know ozone depletion and global warming potentials for common refrigerants.

• Understand leak detection methods, refrigeration components, system evacuation and charging.

With diligent study, you can pass the exam on your first try.

Step 5: Take the Exam and Get Certified

On exam day, remember to bring two forms of ID. Follow all test center rules and procedures. Read each question carefully and eliminate wrong answers. There is no penalty for guessing on the EPA 608 exams.

After passing, you will receive a certification card in the mail in 2-3 weeks. Certification is valid for life and recognized nationally. Always keep the card on you when purchasing or servicing refrigerants. Renewal is not required.

Some states may require contractors to register certifications. Stay current on all federal and local refrigerant handling regulations. Renew any state-specific credentials as needed.

Maintaining Your CFC Certification

Once certified, continue learning about HVAC systems, refrigerants and compliance. Read trade magazines, take advanced classes and attend seminars to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and regulations.

Follow all handling, leak detection, recovery and disposal protocols when servicing equipment with CFCs. Always wear protective gear and use certified recovery machines. Proper compliance protects you, customers and the environment.

Correctly logging refrigerant purchases and disposals is also essential. Keep detailed service records documenting all refrigerant activities. This helps companies track compliance.