Don't cut a line set on demo until someone certified has recovered it

Asked by Marcus B. · Aug 28

Saw this twice this summer on fit-outs, so I'm posting it for the electrical apprentices. You're demoing a space, there's an old split system or a rooftop unit coming out, and someone hands a first-year a pair of cutters and points at the copper. Don't. Unless someone with a 608 has recovered the refrigerant and told you it's done, that line set may still be charged. Cutting it vents refrigerant, which as I understand it is illegal, and at close range it can freeze-burn your hands and face. Ask the GC or the HVAC sub, "has this been recovered?" and get a name. It's the same as LOTO: you don't assume it's dead because somebody said it probably is. Glasses and gloves either way. Stay safe.