What are the New Leak Detection Requirements for Commercial Refrigeration?

The new EPA regulations, established under the AIM Act and 40 CFR Part 82, introduce stricter leak detection, repair, and record-keeping requirements to curb high-GWP emissions. We assist kitchens throughout the Phoenix Metro Area in navigating these rules, which vary based on your equipment’s charge size and leak history.

The EPA 15-Pound Refrigerant Leak Rule

For systems with a full charge of 50 pounds or more, we must perform repairs within 30 days if the calculated annual leak rate exceeds specific thresholds (typically 30% for commercial refrigeration and 20% for condensing units). Smaller systems with 5 to 50 pounds of refrigerant are also subject to a 30% annual leak rate threshold.

Mandatory Inspection Frequencies

The required frequency for leak inspections depends on the size of your system:

• Large Systems (>2,000 lbs): Required quarterly inspections or continuous monitoring.
• Medium Systems (50–2,000 lbs): Quarterly or annual inspections, depending on the system’s documented leak history.
• Small Systems (5–50 lbs): Mandatory annual inspections.
• Comfort Cooling (>50 lbs): Mandatory annual inspections.

Strict Record-Keeping Standards

To avoid federal fines, which can reach $37,500 per day per violation, we help you maintain detailed logs that must be kept for at least three years. These records must include the service date, full charge size, calculated leak rate, a description of repair actions, verification test results, and the technician’s EPA certification number.

Our certified technicians provide the inspections and maintenance documentation needed to ensure your operations remain audit-ready and compliant.

Estimates/upfront pricing are subject to onsite diagnosis and may change after inspection. Service timelines, parts availability, and outcomes may vary depending on equipment condition and parts.

• 2026 EPA Refrigerant Regulations: GWP Limits and Leak Rule Explained