What is the slowest method to recover refrigerant?

Recovering refrigerant in a vapor state is the slowest method because this process relies on the compressor to draw the vapor out of the system. Unlike liquid refrigerant recovery, where the refrigerant is collected under higher pressure and can flow more quickly into the recovery cylinder, vapor recovery involves a more gradual process. The refrigerant must be allowed to evaporate and vaporize before it can be drawn into the recovery system, which inherently takes more time.

This method can be particularly inefficient if there are many variables at play, such as low ambient temperatures or the specific system design that might impede the vapor flow. As a result, while vapor recovery may be suitable in certain situations, it is generally not the preferred method when quick recovery is necessary.

Other methods, such as liquid recovery, typically facilitate a faster transfer of refrigerant due to the higher density and pressure of liquid refrigerant, allowing for a more efficient recovery process.