What defines a small appliance according to the EPA?

A small appliance, as defined by the EPA, refers specifically to products that are charged and sealed with 5 pounds of refrigerant or less. This definition is important because it distinguishes small appliances from larger systems that may have different handling requirements under refrigerant management regulations. Understanding this classification is critical for technicians, as it informs the legal requirements and procedures for repair, maintenance, and disposal associated with these appliances.

This definition allows for clarity in the regulations and standards that technicians must adhere to, which include proper refrigerant recovery techniques and disposal methods to minimize environmental impact. The choice relating to a weight range of 1 to 10 pounds is broader and does not align with the specific threshold established by the EPA, which focuses strictly on 5 pounds as the upper limit. Additionally, while portability and categorization of appliances based on their function may be relevant in some contexts, they do not define small appliances within the framework established by the EPA.