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The EPA's legal definition requires all three conditions simultaneously: (1) fully manufactured and charged at the factory, (2) hermetically sealed compressor, and (3) total refrigerant charge of 5 pounds or less. Window ACs, household refrigerators, freezers, vending machines, dehumidifiers, PTACs, and small ice makers all qualify.
A commercial refrigeration unit with field-serviceable access ports or more than 5 lbs of refrigerant is NOT Type I even if it physically resembles a household appliance. All three conditions -- factory-charged, hermetically sealed, and 5 lbs or less -- must be met simultaneously.
| Method | Type | Compressor Required? | Min. Efficiency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active recovery (self-contained machine) | Type 1 -- Active | No -- works on any appliance | 90% of total charge | Required when compressor is not operational |
| System-dependent (passive) | Type 2 -- Passive | Yes -- must be operational | 80% of total charge | Only permitted for Type I small appliances |
If a refrigerator has 0.5 lbs of refrigerant, 90% efficiency requires recovering at least 0.45 lbs. The remaining 10% accounts for residual vapor in lines and internal volumes. This is not a venting allowance -- it acknowledges that perfect recovery from sealed systems is technically difficult.
Before scrapping a small appliance, refrigerant must be removed by a certified technician (Type I or Universal), a certified reclaimer, or by the scrap recycler using proper equipment. The final processor who receives the appliance has legal responsibility to ensure recovery occurred.
| Refrigerant | Class | GWP | Safety | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R-134a | HFC | 1,430 | A1 (safe) | Modern US household refrigerators and freezers; many window ACs |
| R-600a (isobutane) | Natural HC | 3 | A3 (flammable!) | European and newer domestic refrigerators; very low GWP |
| R-290 (propane) | Natural HC | 3 | A3 (flammable!) | Some newer small commercial units |
| R-22 | HCFC | 1,810 | A1 | Older window ACs (pre-2010); production ended 2020 |
| R-410A | HFC blend | 2,088 | A1 | Current-production window ACs and PTACs |
Isobutane and propane are increasingly common in household refrigerators, especially European imports and energy-efficient models. These are A3 (highly flammable) with charges typically only 1-3 oz (30-85 grams). Always: eliminate ALL ignition sources, use recovery equipment rated for flammable refrigerants, and ensure adequate ventilation to prevent combustible concentration.
Motor and compressor are permanently welded shut in a steel shell. No field-serviceable components exist -- no shaft seals to access. If the compressor fails, the entire sealed assembly is replaced. Access for recovery requires attaching piercing valves to the process tube. This design achieves high reliability -- hermetic compressors routinely last 20+ years.
System-dependent (passive) = 80% minimum efficiency
Active (self-contained machine) = 90% minimum efficiency
Better equipment = higher requirement. If compressor does not work: passive is NOT an option. Must use active at 90%.