What is the first step when evacuating refrigerant from an air conditioning system?

Identifying the type of refrigerant is crucial before evacuating refrigerant from an air conditioning system because different refrigerants have distinct properties, safety protocols, and handling procedures. Knowing the type of refrigerant helps in determining the appropriate recovery methods, equipment, and techniques for proper evacuation.

Using the correct equipment for the specific refrigerant ensures that the technician adheres to environmental regulations and safety standards, as certain refrigerants can be harmful or toxic. Additionally, different refrigerants require different types of recovery machines and processes; for example, some may require specific pressure considerations or recovery techniques that vary based on their composition.

This foundational step lays the groundwork for conducting the procedure safely and effectively, which is essential for protecting both the technician and the environment.