The technician should always ______ an empty recovery cylinder before transferring refrigerant to the cylinder.

Study for the EPA Type 2 Test. Explore flashcards and multiple choice questions, with each question offering hints and explanations. Get prepared for your exam!

Pulling a vacuum on the empty recovery cylinder is necessary to remove air and moisture before you transfer refrigerant into it. Even an apparently empty cylinder contains residual air that acts as a non-condensable gas, which can raise pressure and reduce recovery efficiency. Moisture inside the cylinder can react with refrigerant and oil, forming acids that can corrode the cylinder and contaminate the refrigerant. By evacuating, you create a dry, inert space that allows safe, efficient transfer and helps maintain refrigerant purity. After achieving a deep vacuum and it holding, you can proceed with the transfer. Filling without evacuating would simply trap air and moisture in the cylinder, which is undesirable.