đ§° The 5 Tools Every Tradie Needs for Refrigerant Recovery
Letâs be realârefrigerant recovery isn't the flashiest part of the job, but itâs one of the most important. Whether youâre working with R32, R410A, or something in between, having the right gear makes all the difference between a clean recovery and a total mess (or worse, a fine).
So, if you're just starting out or want to double-check your setup, here are the 5 essential tools every Aussie tradie needs for refrigerant recovery:
1. Refrigerant Recovery Machine
This is your MVP. It pulls refrigerant out of the system and into a recovery cylinderâclean, fast, and legally. Make sure itâs R32-compatible if youâre working on modern units.
Top Pick: Fieldpiece MR45 or Javac RG6000 â both are rated for Aussie conditions and handle the job without breaking a sweat.
2. Recovery Cylinder
You legally canât vent refrigerant, so this is where the gas goes. Make sure itâs:
Certified for your refrigerant type
Not overfilled (max 80% capacity)
Stored upright and safely
Bonus points for using a digital scale to track weight.
3. Manifold Gauge Set
Youâll need a good set of gauges to monitor pressure and safely control the recovery process. For R32 or R410A systems, choose high-pressure rated gauges and hoses.
Bluetooth digital gauges are a solid upgrade if you like logging your work or going paperless.
4. High-Pressure Hoses
Donât trust any old hose. Go for vacuum-rated, R32-approved hoses with anti-blowback valves to prevent leaks. Cheap hoses = slow vacuum + safety risk.
5. Vacuum Pump
After recovery, youâll need to evacuate the system before recharge. A 2-stage pump rated for R32 will help you pull a deep vacuum, remove moisture, and prep the unit properly.
Pro tip: Always check your oil level before every jobâit can make or break your vacuum.
â ď¸ Donât Forget Safety!
Keep a fire extinguisher on hand for R32 work
Ventilate the work area
Wear gloves and eye protection
â Quick Checklist for Tradies:
R32 Recovery Machine
Certified Recovery Cylinder
Manifold Gauges
Vacuum-Rated Hoses
2-Stage Vacuum Pump
PPE (gloves, goggles, extinguisher)
Refrigerant recovery doesnât need to be complicatedâjust safe, legal, and efficient. With these five tools in your kit, youâll be ready to tackle any split system, rooftop unit, or ducted install like a pro.
đŹ Got a recovery setup you swear by? Share your go-to tools in the comments!













