You should check the reviews of the best refrigerant recovery machine if you want to find the best device to recover the refrigerants from your cooling equipment. Before repairing or conducting repairs on air conditioners, freezers, or refrigerators, technicians use a recovery machine to retrieve the refrigerants for potential reuse and recycling.
It’s worth finding a durable and high-quality refrigerant recovery machine because it is one of the most costly devices owned by technicians and contractors. Here I will bring you to the best refrigerant recovery machines, and I hope you can decide the most suitable product for you after reading this post.
Why Should You Recover Refrigerants?
After the Clean Air Act of 1990 and the Montreal Protocol Treaty’s introduction, the industrial refrigeration industry will face severe government fines unless refrigerants are required to be recovered, recycled, or reclaimed.
Synthetic refrigerants may have a negative effect on the environment, whether in gas or liquid phase. In detail, there will be a lasting effect on the ozone layer when synthetic refrigerants are released into the atmosphere.
Moreover, the disposal of the liquid refrigerant at the disposal plant permanently changes the soil’s chemical composition. That’s why many nations have taken steps to restrict the use of refrigerants in order to protect our climate. Furthermore, recovering refrigerants can also save money since it is getting more and more costly for replacing and disposing of refrigerants.
Refrigerant Recovery Methods
There are three specific methods for recovering and reusing refrigerants in your cooling devices: liquid, vapor, and push-pull.
Liquid Recovery Method (The Fastest)
This method allows you to move the refrigerants while still in the liquid form. Moreover, the liquid recovery method is excellent for moving refrigerant from one container to another. Although this method is the quickest of the three, it is not conceivable for all HVAC systems.
Vapor Recovery Method (The Most Common)
This method is not as fast as the liquid recovery method, but is by far the most common technique. This method is just simple: refrigerants are transferred into the vapor taste. The only variations between the liquid recovery method and the vapor recovery method are the refrigerant conditions and certain settings.
Push-Pull Recovery Method (for Large Volumes)
As the name of the method, there are two processes. The unit will “pull” vapor out of the cylinder and create discharge gas of high pressure to “push” the liquid out of the device and back into the recovery cylinder. This technique is used to move large amounts of liquid refrigerants, typically more than 20 pounds.
Which Brands Of Refrigerant Recovery Machines Are The Best?
Before reaching other parts of the reviews, let’s look at some famous brands that manufacture the best refrigerant recovery machine with impressive performance.
Robinair
Offers plenty of first-class refrigerant recovery machine, from the portable RG3 model, the speedy RG6 to the high-efficiency Premier model.
Appion
Compact, durable, and incredibly powerful machine for both commercial and industrial jobs.
Inficon
Provides exceptional heat exchange, exceptional cooling, and fast recovery rates.
Yellow Jacket
Powerful refrigerant recovery machine that is easy to use.
Vivohome
Features high efficiency to suit all kinds of refrigerants and quick recovery speed.
DreamJoy
Delivers excellent recovery performance with quieter operation than most models.
Which Are The Best Refrigerant Recover Machines To Buy?
Are you finding the best refrigerant recovery machine in the long run? If Yes, the Appion is what you need. The best inexpensive refrigerant recovery machine belongs to the Vivohome, while the best portable refrigerant recovery machine should be the Robinair RG3.
Please continue reading to find other high-performance products that are worth considering!
- Best Overall: Appion G5TWIN Twin Cylinder Refrigerant Recovery Unit
“Twin cylinders and twin condensers, the refrigerant-Isolated crankcase and 7-inch 10-blade turbine fan, powerful, compact, durable, fast recovery rate, cool and high-efficient operation.” - Best Budget: VIVOHOME Portable Refrigerant Recovery Machine
“Portable and compact design, high-efficiency recovery, high-pressure shut-off function, oil-less, air-cooled, piston compressor, affordable price.” - Best Portable: Robinair RG3 Portable Refrigerant Recovery Machine
“Oil-less compressor, high-efficiency cross-flow design, safety shut-off switch, high-quality, excellent performance, superior safety, shorter cycle times, compact and lightweight.” - Best Powerful: Inficon Vortex Dual Refrigerant Recovery Machine
“Powerful 1 HP dual piston compressor, microchannel condenser for exceptional heat exchange, two-valve operation with self-purge, large, easy-to-read gauges.” - Best Quiet: DreamJoy Refrigerant Recovery Machine
“Single-cylinder design and oil-less compressor, oversized condensers, and fan, built for speed in all conditions, high-pressure safety shut-off switch and self-purging valve design.” - Best High-Efficiency: Robinair 34788NI-H Premier Refrigerant Recovery
“98.5% recovery efficiency, visual and audible alarm, automatic oil drain, air purge, and refrigerant refill, approved for use on standard, hybrid and electric vehicle A/C systems.” - Best Performance and Speed: Robinair RG6 Portable Refrigerant Recovery Machine
“Oversized condenser and fan, high-pressure safety shut-off switch, self-purge feature, twin-cylinder design for superior recovery performance, fast recovery rates.” - Best Versatile: Mophorn HO-S600 Refrigerant Recovery
“Fully automatic design, precision silicone oil meter, portable wheel for easy moving, wide application, leak testing, automatic refrigerant refill, and oil drain.”
Refrigerant Recovery Machine Comparison Table 2021
Finding the best refrigerant recovery machine is not as easy as it sounds, so you will need to have a glance at the comparison chart below to figure out the most appropriate product that serves your needs the best.
Top 9 Best Refrigerant Recovery Machines On The Market 2021 Reviews
Don’t leap into the job if you haven’t read the reviews of the 9 best refrigerant recovery machines. These top-rated refrigerate recovery machines are available with different capabilities to meet all needs. Start reading to find the best product equipped with powerful engines, intuitive controls, and robust enclosures.
1. Robinair RG3 Portable Refrigerant Recovery Machine
(Best Portable)
Robinair RG3 Portable refrigerant recovery machine is worth your investment since it is fast, lightweight, and affordable. With the weight of 18 pounds and 40% smaller footprint, this machine is easy to carry, and it is fancied for superior portability.
The Robinair RG3 is simple to use and suitable for any residential and appliance-sized recovery task, from a rooftop to a marine HVAC system. This device is designed to withstand even harsh conditions, and it can recover both liquid and vapor refrigerants with the oil-less compressor.
The cross-flow design features the fan and condenser layout that is maximized for shorter cycle times and providing high efficiency. If the pressure rises above 550 psi, the machine will automatically be shut off since it is equipped with a high-pressure safety shut-off switch.
Key Features:
- Oil-less compressor
- High-efficiency cross-flow design
- Safety shut-off switch
- 1/3 HP, 115V AC, 60 Hz single cylinder
- Works with all common CFC, HFC, HCFC refrigerants, including R-410A
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Able to handle most refrigerants
- Recover both liquid and vapor
- Shorter cycle times
- High-quality, excellent performance, and superior safety
- Easy to carry with superior portability
- Easy-to-read gauges
- Comfortable handle and two valve controls
Cons
- This product comes with a short hose, and it is not ideal for high-volume jobs
Product Specifications:
| Weight | 18 pounds |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 9.5 x 12.5 inches |
| Power | 115V AC, 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 1 year -over the counter exchange |
| Compressor | 1/3 hp, single-cylinder, oil-less |
| Recovery capacities | Push-Pull, Liquid, Vapor |
| Work for | All common CFC, HFC, and HCFC refrigerants including R-410A |
Do you know how the Robinair RG3 Portable refrigerant recovery machine work in reality? Let’s watch the video, and you will get the answer?
2. Robinair RG6 Portable Refrigerant Recovery Machine
(Best Performance and Speed)
The Robinair RG6 refrigerant recovery machine a rugged and tough machine with fast recovery rates. With significant performance and speed, this product is an ideal choice for today’s busy technicians.
Robinair RG6 refrigerant recovery machine is optimized for speed in all environments, including high temperatures. This product comes with a larger condenser area and a larger fan for maximum cooling and shorter cycle times. The oil-less compressor allows it to recover both liquid and vapor refrigerants.
Another plus point of this product is the self-purge feature to save time and eliminate the potential for cross-contamination. Using this product is safe since the machine will automatically shut off when the pressure rises above 550 PSI.
Key Features:
- Oversized condenser and fan
- High-pressure safety shut-off switch
- Self-purge feature
- Twin-cylinder design for superior recovery performance
Pros
- Extra-large pressure gauges, convenient handle, and easy controls
- Fast recovery rates
- Offering the best refrigerant recovery speeds in all conditions
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Capable of handling both liquid and vapor recovery
- Better cooling and shorter cycle times
- Remove cross-contamination potential and save time
Cons
- This machine seems to work slower after using for a long time
Product Specifications:
| Weight | 27 pounds |
| Dimensions | 17 x 9 x 12 inches |
| Power | 115V AC, 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 1 year -over the counter exchange |
| Compressor | 3/4 hp, twin-cylinder, oil-less |
| Recovery capacities | Push-Pull, Liquid, Vapor |
| Work for | All common CFC, HFC, and HCFC refrigerants including R-410A |
3. Robinair 34788NI-H Premier Refrigerant Recovery
(Best High-Efficiency)
The Robinair 34788NI-H Premier refrigerant recovery machine delivers unmatched efficiency for high-voltage and standard systems. This product features an industry-leading 98.5% recovery efficiency for standard and hybrid vehicles.
This new version features a more expansive graphical display and automatic features such as leak testing, automatic refrigerant refill, and oil drain. This product also provides you with the ability to add a printer, USB data sharing, refrigerant identifier, and a wireless module for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth communication.
The visual and audible alarm warns the user when the service is complete or a problem happens. Simultaneously, the vacuum leak test tracks the level after the evacuation and notifies the potential for leakage. Additionally, automatic air purge removes system-damaging air without tracking gauges or opening valves.
Key Features:
- 98.5% recovery efficiency
- Visual and audible alarm
- Automatic oil drain, air purge, and refrigerant refill
- Approved for use on standard, hybrid and electric vehicle A/C systems
Pros
- Come with many smart functions and versatile use
- Multilingual display
- Vacuum leak detection
- Refrigerant management system
- Larger graphical display
- Recover, recycle, evacuate, leak-detect, and recharge high-voltage and standard R-134a systems
Cons
- This product comes at a high price
Product Specifications:
| Weight | Approximately 230 pounds |
| Dimensions | 48.5 x 24 x 36 inches |
| Power | 125 VAC, 60 Hz |
| Warranty | Not specified |
| Compressor | 3/8 hp, pressure-protected, oiled, hermetically sealed |
| Recovery capacities | Liquid and vapor |
| Work for | Both high-voltage and standard A/C systems |
4. Appion G5TWIN Twin Cylinder Refrigerant Recovery Machine
(Best Overall)
The Appion G5Twin refrigerant recovery machine is a combination of creativity and convenience. With the light and modern system, this product is built to meet both commercial and industrial refrigerant recovery requirements.
The weight of this product is 24 pounds, so it is easy to handle. This model can be used for all common R410A, R-134a, R-22, and R-407C refrigerants. Moreover, this product can recover both liquid and vapor refrigerants without the need to throttle.
For a pleasant, robust, and efficient operation, the G5 comes with twin cylinders, twin condensers, a refrigerant-isolated crankcase, and a turbine fan blasting over 700cfm+ of airflow.
Key Features:
- Twin cylinders and twin condensers
- The refrigerant-Isolated crankcase and 7-inch 10-blade turbine fan
- Rugged, compact, and durable
- Fast recovery rate
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Designed for use with all common refrigerants
- Capable of pumping both liquid and vapor
- Hande the industrial and commercial challenging demands
- Cool and high-efficient operation
- Superior performance
- Easy to handle
Cons
- Hardly any cons found
Product Specifications:
| Weight | 24 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15 x 11 x 12 inches |
| Power | 115 VAC, 60 Hz, 10 Amps |
| Warranty | 1-year |
| Compressor | 1/2 HP, oil-less, twin-cylinder |
| Recovery capacities | Liquid, vapor |
| Work for | All common refrigerants, including R410A, R-134a, R-22, and R-407C |
The Appion G5Twin refrigerant recovery is renowned for being fast and powerful. Let’s check this unit with the video below!
5. DreamJoy Refrigerant Recovery Machine
(Best Quiet)
The DreamJoy refrigerant recovery machine receives a lot of good feedback because it works quieter than most models on the market. Thanks to the single-cylinder design, this product features excellent recovery performance.
The oil-less compressor allows the unit to recover both liquid and vapor refrigerants while extra-large fans and condensers ensure maximum cooling and shorter cycle times. Moreover, this product is also built to provide the ideal speed in all conditions.
DreamJoy refrigerant recovery machine can handle almost all refrigerants, and it can work with all common CFC, HFC, HCFC Refrigerants, including the R-410A IEC connector and power cord. There are also some safety features such as a high-pressure safety shut-off switch and self-purging valve design.
Key Features:
- Single-cylinder design and oil-less compressor
- Oversized condensers and fan
- Built for speed in all conditions
- High-pressure safety shut-off switch and self-purging valve design
Pros
- Superior recovery performance
- Ideal for both small household and light commercial
- Able to handle both liquid and vapor recovery
- Time-saving and remove cross-contamination risk
- Comfortable handles and simple controls
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- This product shuts off at 12 psi, not at 15 psi
Product Specifications:
| Weight | Not specified |
| Dimensions | 21 x 17 x 12 inches |
| Power | 115V, 60Hz |
| Warranty | Not specified |
| Compressor | 1/2 hp, direct drive, horizontal bar oil-free, air-cooled |
| Recovery capacities | Push-Pull, Liquid, Vapor |
| Work for | All common CFC, HFC, HCFC Refrigerants, including the R-410A IEC connector and power cord |
6. Inficon Vortex Dual Refrigerant Recovery Machine
(Best Powerful)
Inficon Vortex Dual refrigerant recovery machine is well-known for being one of the most powerful models on the market. This product is also fancied for its excellent warranty service.
By providing a complete 1 HP dual piston compressor, this product provides the fastest speed with industry-leading recovery rates available. Combining an oversize fan and a special microchannel condenser contributes to continuous speed at the hottest room temperatures.
That’s not all, this product also ensures ease of use with the help of two-valve operation with self-purge. The gauges are also large and easy to read. One more plus point of this product is the 3-year warranty with durable construction.
Key Features:
- Powerful 1 HP dual piston compressor
- Microchannel condenser for exceptional heat exchange
- Two-valve operation with self-purge
- Large, easy-to-read gauges
Pros
- Effortless to use
- Durable metal knobs
- Heavy-duty blow-molded case
- 3-year replacement warranty
- Well-built machine
Cons
- This product comes at quite a high price
Product Specifications:
| Weight | 29.7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16.7 x 9.2 x 14.2 inches |
| Power | 115V, 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Compressor | 1 HP, oil-less, dual valve, AC motor drive |
| Recovery capacities | Liquid, vapor |
| Work for | Commonly used CFCs, HCFCs, and HFCs including blends such as R410A, 12, 22, 134a, 404, 407C, 500, 502, and other Class III, IV and V refrigerants |
7. Yellow Jacket 95760 Refrigerant Recovery Machine
The Yellow Jacket 95760 refrigerant recovery machine features the single-valve control for fast switching from liquid to vapor and to purge. This product also features fast recovery and quieter operation to provide you with the best convenience in use.
The Constant Pressure Regulator (CPR) valve controls the compressor’s refrigerant and reduces the technician’s need to throttle the suction valve. You can enjoy the great power with the combination of advanced 1/2 hp, 3425 rpm oil-less compressor, and precision valves.
One good point of this refrigerant recovery machine is that it has the indicator signals “recovery complete”. Additionally, the machine shuts off when the unit reaches 13″ of vacuum, and it will automatically restart when system pressure rises.
Key Features:
- Single-valve control
- Advanced 1/2 hp, 3425 rpm, oil-less compressor
- “Recovery complete” indicator signals
- Fast recovery process and quiet operation
Pros
- Able to recover both liquid and vapor refrigerants
- Precision valves
- User-friendly design
- Easy of carrying
- High performance
- 1-year warranty on parts and labor; 3-year warranty on compressor
Cons
- Bad customer service
Product Specifications:
| Weight | 28 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15 x 12 x 21 inches |
| Power | 115V, 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 1-year warranty on parts and labor; 3-year warranty on compressor |
| Compressor | 1/2 hp, oil-less, 3425 rpm |
| Recovery capacities | Vapor, liquid, push/pull |
| Work for | Class III, IV, and V refrigerants, including R-410A |
8. VIVOHOME Portable Refrigerant Recovery Machine
(Best Budget)
The Vivohome refrigerant recovery machine does not only feature the portable size, but it also has an affordable price that is ideal for residential works or light commercial purposes. Transporting this unit is effortless with the compact design.
Moreover, this refrigerant recovery is also eye-catching, durable, and reliable. Therefore, it becomes a favorite choice for many users. High efficiency is also one of the reasons for investing in this machine.
The maximum recovery speed of this compressor is 3/4 HP, which quickly recovers vapor and liquid refrigerants. Additionally, the compressor will automatically shut off when the pressure inside the system is above 38.5 bar to ensure safe operation.
Key Features:
- Portable and compact design
- High-efficiency recovery
- High-pressure shut-off function
- Oil-less, air-cooled, piston compressor
Pros
- Affordable price
- Durable and reliable
- Eye-catching appearance
- Quickly recover vapor and liquid refrigerants
- Easy-to-use design for maximum convenience
- Perfect design to meet all your home needs
Cons
- No light indicator to show when it’s done
Product Specifications:
| Weight | 35.5 pounds |
| Dimensions | 18.35 x 17.15 x 12.4 inches |
| Power | 110 – 120V AC, 60HZ |
| Warranty | Not specified |
| Compressor | Oil-less, air-cooled, piston, single-cylinder |
| Recovery capacities | Liquid, vapor |
| Work for | R12, R22, R134A, R401A, R410A, R401C, R406A, R502 |
9. Mophorn HO-S600 Refrigerant Recovery
(Best Versatile)
The Mophorn HO-S600 refrigerant recovery machine has a wide application, and it is commonly seen in auto repair shops or maintenance stores. Whether you need a refrigerant recovery machine for household, commercial air conditioning, or automotive air conditioning, the Mophorn HO-S600 refrigerant recovery machine can be a great choice.
Thanks to the simple and straightforward operation interface, this machine is effortless to use, and it just requires low technical requirements. After setting the parameter, recycling, filling, vacuuming, and leak detection will be controlled by the microcomputer processor.
That’s not all, this product is also equipped with 4 portable wheels for easy moving. The precision silicone oil meter provides more stability and accuracy. You may regret it if you miss such a multi-functional product like the Mophorn HO-S600 refrigerant recovery machine.
Key Features:
- Fully automatic design
- Precision silicone oil meter
- Portable wheel for easy moving
- Wide application
- Leak testing, automatic refrigerant refill, and oil drain
Pros
- Effortless to use
- Suitable for various purposes and scenes
- Stable and accurate
- Low technical requirements
- Excellent performance
- High-quality
Cons
- High price
Product Specifications:
| Weight | 198.4 pounds |
| Dimensions | 23 x 27 x 47 inches |
| Power | 110V/60HZ |
| Warranty | Not specified |
| Compressor | SC15G, DANFOSS brand |
| Recovery capacities | Liquid, vapor |
| Work for | Household, commercial air conditioning, automotive air conditioning, and small and medium refrigeration equipment |
Safety Recommendations For Recovering Refrigerants
Refrigerant recovery is a legal necessity when repairing cooling equipment. Some tips will help you safely perform this critical task and prevent potential personal injury or damage to your equipment.
- Must follow safety protocols: you should wear safety goggles, gloves, and safety shoes when repairing chilling systems.
- Avoid skin contact with liquid refrigerants: they may cause frostbite.
- Avoid refrigerant vapor inhalation: high refrigerant vapor inhalation concentrations are dangerous and can cause heart abnormalities, unconsciousness, or death.
- Refrigerant vapor is heavier than air, so that it will stay in low areas, and you should avoid these areas if proper ventilation is not given.
- Make sure you read the operating instructions because each model works differently.
- Don’t use long hose: shorter and broader hose will help remove the refrigerants easier.
- Remember to empty your recovery machine between jobs and do not overfill the cylinder.
- Remember to check the certification for the recovery tank. Every 5 years, it must be re-certified.
What To Look For When Buying The Best Refrigerant Recovery Machine?
There are so many factors of the refrigerant recovery machine that a user should know. If you want to pick up the right product, you should go through the tips below.
Single Or Twin-Cylinder?
A single-cylinder refrigerant recovery machine is less powerful than the twin-cylinder model. However, the twin-cylinder model usually comes at a higher price, so you should consider your budget before buying. If you need a faster machine, the twin-cylinder refrigerant recovery machine should be your choice, while the single-cylinder model can be an economical choice.
Compressor
The compressor of the refrigerant recovery machine usually comes with two types: oil-less or oil-based. Typically, the older version of the hermetic compressor was oil-based, and this type needs more maintenance, oil level tracking, residual oil flushing out, and so on.
Nowadays, most compressors are oil-less, and they can recover both liquid and vapor refrigerants. And they also do not need much maintenance like the oil-based model.
Weight
The refrigerant recovery unit can weigh around 20 pounds to 40 pounds. Some commercial products can weight up to over 100 pounds. The lighter the machine is, the easier you can carry it around and handle your tasks. Some commercial products are also equipped with wheels to make it easy to move.
Warranty
Warranty is important for equipment such as refrigerant recovery machines. There are different types of refrigerant recovery machines, such as residential, commercial, or industrial, and the warranties for these types are also different. The warranty on both the overall device and the engine it uses is also not the same. Therefore, you should check the warranty for each product carefully.
Price
A refrigerant recovery unit’s price ranges from $300 to around $700-$1000. The cheaper machine is usually manual or comes with a single-cylinder compressor. Product with higher price offers additional features such as excess pressure warning function, filters, self-purge system, dryers, etc.
Types
There are 3 types of refrigerant recovery machines: small, residential, and commercial.
- Small: For refrigerant recovery from your car air conditioning, or smaller air conditioning units from the wall or window.
- Residental: More efficient appliances that can accommodate home air conditioning as well as fridges.
- Commercial: For the larger HVAC installations (air conditioning installations) located in malls and large shops.
FAQs
If you are still hesitant about buying one refrigerant recovery machine, you should read some common questions that people always ask.
My Top Pick
In my view, the best refrigerant recovery machine is the Appion G5TWIN Twin Cylinder Refrigerant Recovery Unit since this product is both compact and powerful. Twin cylinders combine with twin condensers contribute to fast recovery and superior performance.
Which is the best refrigerant recovery machine for you? Have you ever worked with one of the nine best refrigerant recovery machines above? Do you know any tips for buying the best refrigerant recovery machines? Do you want to ask something? If Yes, feel free to send me a comment.
