EPA 609 Technician Certification Practice Exam

The manufacturing of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) was officially discontinued on January 1st, 1996. This decision was part of a broader international effort to phase out substances that deplete the ozone layer, particularly following the Montreal Protocol, which was signed in 1987. This protocol established timelines for the reduction and eventual elimination of ozone-depleting substances, including CFCs, due to their significant impact on the ozone layer and the environment.

Understanding the timing of this ban is crucial for technicians and others in the HVAC/R industry, as it highlights the importance of using alternative refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly and compliant with current regulations. Familiarity with key dates in the phasing out of CFCs helps technicians ensure that they are properly managing refrigerants in accordance with environmental laws and best practices.