Why is it important to confirm that refrigerants are not mixed in recovery cylinders?

Confirming that refrigerants are not mixed in recovery cylinders is crucial primarily to prevent chemical reactions. Different refrigerants have unique chemical compositions and properties, and when they are mixed, they can interact in unpredictable ways. Such reactions can lead to the formation of harmful by-products, which can be dangerous to both the environment and human health. Furthermore, these reactions can compromise the effectiveness of the recovery process, leading to less efficient recycling or disposal of the refrigerants.

While other factors such as system efficiency, compliance with regulations, and warranty validation are important considerations, the immediate concern with mixing refrigerants focuses on the potential for hazardous reactions, which can create significant risks during both recovery and future handling of the refrigerants.