EPA Section 608 Certification

Purpose

Inform Spartan Plumbing technicians about EPA Section 608 certification requirements for handling refrigerants, which applies when working on equipment that contains refrigerant (some water heaters, heat pumps, and cooling systems).

Who This Applies To

Technicians who may encounter or handle refrigerants in the course of plumbing work. While Spartan is primarily a plumbing company, some equipment (heat pump water heaters, geothermal systems) involves refrigerant.

When Section 608 Applies

• Working on heat pump water heaters that contain refrigerant
• Disconnecting or reconnecting equipment with refrigerant lines
• Any situation where refrigerant could be vented or released

Certification Levels

• Type I: Small appliances (under 5 lbs of refrigerant)
• Type II: High-pressure equipment (most AC and heat pump systems)
• Type III: Low-pressure equipment (large commercial chillers)
• Universal: Covers all types — recommended if pursuing certification

Spartan Plumbing Requirements

• If your work regularly involves heat pump water heaters or similar equipment, Section 608 certification may be required
• The office will identify roles that require this certification
• Certification is obtained through an EPA-approved exam (often available online)
• Spartan may cover the cost of certification for designated technicians

Key Rules

It is illegal to knowingly vent refrigerant into the atmosphere

Refrigerant must be properly recovered using approved equipment before disposing of or servicing equipment

If you encounter a refrigerant leak during plumbing work, do not attempt to repair it unless you are certified — recommend the customer contact an HVAC contractor

Document any refrigerant-related observations in ServiceTitan

Important Notes

• Most standard plumbing work does not require Section 608 certification
• However, as heat pump water heaters become more common, this certification is increasingly relevant
• If you are unsure whether a piece of equipment contains refrigerant, check the nameplate or ask your supervisor
• EPA fines for improper refrigerant handling can be substantial

Related SOPs

• Ohio Plumbing License Requirements by Role — general licensing
• Continuing Education Requirements — maintaining certifications
• Water Heater Diagnostics Flowchart — identifying water heater types