Best Refrigerant Recovery Tools of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Refrigerant recovery tools are essential for HVAC technicians and contractors to safely and efficiently recover refrigerant from cooling systems. These tools are designed to remove refrigerant from the system and store it in a separate tank for proper disposal or reuse. There are various types of refrigerant recovery tools available in the market, including portable units, stationary units, and handheld units. Portable units are ideal for on-site jobs, while stationary units are suitable for larger scale projects. Handheld units are perfect for smaller systems and tight spaces. Regardless of the type, all refrigerant recovery tools must comply with EPA regulations to ensure environmental safety.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Elitech LMC-100F+ Refrigerant Charging Scale Cover #TOP 1
Elitech LMC-100F+ Refrigerant Charging Scale
ftb score rating icon 9.9
FAHKNS 30 LB Refrigerant Recovery Tank Cover #TOP 2
FAHKNS 30 LB Refrigerant Recovery Tank
ftb score rating icon 9.8
YELLOW JACKET 220 LBS Refrigerant Scale Cover #TOP 3
YELLOW JACKET 220 LBS Refrigerant Scale
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Refrigerant Recovery Tools

Elitech LMC-100F+ Refrigerant Charging Scale

LMC-100F
Orange
110 LBS Standard
Elitech LMC-100F+ Refrigerant Charging Scale Cover
Elitech LMC-100F+ Refrigerant Charging Weight Scale 110Lbs Freon Scale High Precision for HVAC with Case

The Elitech LMC-100F+ Scale offers precise measurements with an accuracy of ±0.05% plus 5 grams and a fine resolution of 2 grams, making it ideal for handling refrigerants accurately. Its capacity of up to 110 pounds allows you to work with large refrigerant tanks with ease. The scale comes with a durable, heavy-duty carrying case that protects the device and makes it simple to transport to different job sites. Built from sturdy metal, this compact scale is designed to last through tough work environments. Powered by a 9V battery, it can run up to 30 hours and features an automatic shutoff after 10 minutes of inactivity, plus a backlit display for easy reading in low light conditions.

What We Like
High measurement accuracy
Heavy-duty carrying case
Durable metal construction
Long battery life with auto-off
Backlit display for visibility
#TOP 2

FAHKNS 30 LB Refrigerant Recovery Tank

FAH180614KNS
YELLOW
FAHKNS 30 LB Refrigerant Recovery Tank Cover
FAHKNS Refrigerant Recovery Tank 30 LB with 1/4 SAE Y-Valve Liquid/Vapor Reclaim Tank AC Freon Recovery Tank Refrigerant Recovery Cylinder Tank Reusable Cylinder Tank Without Float Switch Gray Yellow

The FAHKNS Recovery Tank features a smart dual Y-valve design, allowing you to easily control the flow of liquids and gases for efficient refrigerant recovery. Made from durable HP295 stainless steel, this tank resists damage and maintains its shape, ensuring long-lasting use. Its powder-coated finish adds a sleek look and extra protection, while the round base improves stability when placed upright. This tank is versatile enough for use with various refrigerants and is ideal for household air conditioning and refrigerator repairs. Just remember to use it only with one type of refrigerant at a time and follow safety guidelines for best results.

What We Like
Dual Y-valve control
Durable stainless steel
Powder-coated finish
Stable round base
Versatile refrigerant use
#TOP 3

YELLOW JACKET 220 LBS Refrigerant Scale

ASRCS-220L
YELLOW
9" x 9"
YELLOW JACKET 220 LBS Refrigerant Scale Cover
Refrigerant Scale 220 LBS HVAC Freon Scale High Precision Electronic Refrigerant Charging Weight Scale with Portable Case for All Refrigerant Recovery Tanks

The YELLOW JACKET Refrigerant Scale offers precise measurements up to 220 lbs, ensuring you get accurate readings for your refrigerant tanks with minimal error. This high level of accuracy helps you avoid mistakes when charging or recovering refrigerants. It also protects your equipment with built-in safety features like an overload alert and automatic shutoff after 10 minutes of inactivity, which helps save battery life. The sturdy aluminum frame and non-slip platform keep your tanks stable during weighing, preventing slips and spills. Plus, the easy-to-read LCD screen with a wide viewing angle lets you monitor weights clearly, even in low light conditions, making your job easier and more efficient.

What We Like
High-precision weighing
Overload and auto-shutdown protection
Durable aluminum frame
Non-slip weighing platform
Clear LCD display
#TOP 4

VEVOR 220 LBS Refrigerant Scale with Remote

LX-36575D
220 LBS
VEVOR 220 LBS Refrigerant Scale with Remote Cover
VEVOR Refrigerant Scale 220 LBS HAVC Charging Recovery Freon Scale, with Wired Remote Control, 5g High Precision Electronic Digital Recovery Weight Scale with Case and Dry Battery

The VEVOR Refrigerant Scale offers precise weighing with a capacity of up to 220 pounds and an accuracy of 5 grams, making it ideal for accurate refrigerant charging and recovery. You can easily switch between kilograms, ounces, and pounds, giving you versatile measurement options. It comes ready to use with a 9V dry battery included, and smart energy-saving features help extend battery life by turning off the backlight and shutting down automatically when idle. The scale’s FCC and CE certifications ensure safety, while non-slip rubber pads keep your tanks steady during weighing. The remote control with a clear LCD and adjustable stand lets you read measurements comfortably without holding the device.

What We Like
High-precision weighing
Multiple measurement units
Energy-saving features
Safety certifications
Remote control with display
#TOP 5

FAHKNS 30 LB Refrigerant Recovery Tank

167286-3
FAHKNS 30 LB Refrigerant Recovery Tank Cover
FAHKNS Refrigerant Recovery Tank 30 LB with 1/4 SAE Y-Valve Reusable Cylinder Tank Without Float Switch R12 R22, R134A, R410A etc Refrigerant Freon Recovery Tank Gray Yellow Gray Yellow

The FAHKNS Recovery Tank is built with durable HP295 stainless steel, ensuring it won’t easily dent or lose its shine, which means it stays reliable and looks good over time. Its powder-coated finish not only enhances appearance but also makes the tank easier to clean. The unique Y-valve design lets you control gas and liquid flow separately, giving you better precision during refrigerant recovery. Plus, the brass valve helps regulate pressure inside the tank, keeping you safe while working. With a sturdy round base and a handy round neck handle, this tank is stable and easy to carry, making your refrigerant recovery tasks smoother and more efficient.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Powder-coated finish
Dual Y-valve control
Pressure regulation valve
Stable base with carrying handle
#TOP 6

Robinair Maintenance Kit for Recovery and Recycling Equipment

13172
CHROME
Robinair Maintenance Kit for Recovery and Recycling Equipment Cover
Robinair 13172 R-12 and R-134a A/C Recovery and Recycling Unit Maintenance Kit

This maintenance kit by Robinair is designed to maintain the efficiency of your recovery and recycling equipment. It includes a quick-change filter-drier for use on both R-12 and R-134a stations and a 16-ounce bottle of premium high vacuum pump oil. This kit is compatible with various models, including 17700A, 34700, 34800, 34900, 34288, and 34788.

What We Like
Includes both filter-drier and high vacuum pump oil
Compatible with various Robinair models
Designed to maintain peak efficiency of recovery and recycling equipment
#TOP 7

YELLOW JACKET 220 LBS Refrigerant Scale

ASRCS-220L
Yellow
YELLOW JACKET 220 LBS Refrigerant Scale Cover
Refrigerant Scale 220 LBS HVAC Freon Scale Ultra-Large LCD Screen High Precision Electronic Refrigerant Charging Weight Scale with Portable Case for Recovery Tanks

The YELLOW JACKET Refrigerant Scale offers precise weight measurements up to 220 lbs, helping you handle refrigerant charging with great accuracy. Its ultra-large LCD screen makes it easy to read numbers even in low light, and the adjustable bracket lets you set it up hands-free. The scale is built with a sturdy aluminum frame and a non-slip platform, so your tanks stay secure during weighing. Plus, it includes safety features like overload alerts and automatic shutoff to protect the device and save battery life. This scale makes your refrigerant tasks smoother and more reliable.

What We Like
High-precision weighing
Large easy-to-read LCD
Durable aluminum frame
Non-slip platform
Multiple safety protections
#TOP 8

Flame King Refrigerant Recovery Cylinder Tank

YSNR301
Gray
30 LB Pound
Flame King Refrigerant Recovery Cylinder Tank Cover
Flame King 30-LB Pound Refrigerant Recovery Cylinder Tank, Y-Valve for Liquid/Vapor, Reusable - DOT Compliant - Gray

The Flame King Refrigerant Recovery Cylinder Tank is a high-quality, refillable tank that is DOT and Transport Canada certified. Constructed from high-grade welded steel and powder-coated for durability, this 30lb tank is equipped with a Y-valve for liquid and vapor, making it perfect for refrigerant recovery needs. Flame King is a trusted leader in propane storage solutions, with tanks available ranging from refillable 1lb canisters to 100lb tanks.

What We Like
DOT and Transport Canada certified
Constructed from high-grade welded steel and powder-coated for durability
Equipped with a Y-valve for liquid and vapor
#TOP 9

YELLOW JACKET 110 LBS Refrigerant Scale

ASRCS-110L
Yellow
110 LBS
YELLOW JACKET 110 LBS Refrigerant Scale Cover
Refrigerant Scale 110 LBS HVAC Freon Scale Ultra-Large LCD Screen High Precision Electronic Refrigerant Charging Weight Scale with Portable Case for All Refrigerant Recovery Tanks

The YELLOW JACKET Refrigerant Scale is designed to provide precise measurements with a capacity of up to 110 lbs, making it ideal for handling various refrigerant recovery tanks. Its high accuracy ensures you get reliable readings every time, which is essential for strict weighing requirements. The ultra-large LCD screen is easy to read, even in low light, and the adjustable bracket allows hands-free operation, adding convenience to your work. You’ll also appreciate the included 9V dry battery that powers the scale for up to 40 hours, ready to use right out of the box. Plus, the durable aluminum frame and non-slip platform keep your tanks stable and secure during weighing.

What We Like
High precision weighing
Large, easy-to-read LCD
Includes battery and portable case
Durable aluminum frame
Non-slip weighing platform
#TOP 10

MASTERCOOL 62010 30 lb Refrigerant Recovery Tank

62010
Gray/Yellow
30 Lb.
MASTERCOOL 62010 30 lb Refrigerant Recovery Tank Cover
Mastercool 62010 30 lb Refrigerant Recovery Cylinder, DOT-Approved, 1/4" FL-M Connections, HP295 Steel, Yellow/Gray (No Refrigerant Included)

The MASTERCOOL 62010 30 lb Refrigerant Recovery Tank features a 30 lb DOT tank with a Y valve for liquid and vapor, is reusable and approved by AUS and Transport Canada, compatible with all refrigerants, and 100% U.S. assembled and tested. It is unpresurized and shipped empty with dry air, conforming to DOT-4BA400 specs and ARI guidelines, making it a versatile and reliable tool for refrigerant recovery.

What We Like
Compatible with all refrigerants
Reusable and approved by AUS and Transport Canada
Unpresurized and shipped empty with dry air
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What tools are needed to recover refrigerant?

To recover refrigerant, you will need tools such as manifold gauges, safety glasses, gloves, a refrigerant recovery cylinder, a scale, an approved refrigerant recovery unit, and the proper hoses with low-loss fittings to connect to the discharge side of the recovery equipment. Safety precautions should always be taken when handling refrigerant.

2. How do you recover refrigerant without a recovery machine?

If you don't have a recovery machine, one method to recover refrigerant involves using a recovery tank with an inline filter. The tank is then evacuated and placed in a freezer. Connect gauges to the system and recover the tank with the closed tank and open gauge handwheels. Finally, break the connection of the tank to allow the hoses to pass.

3. What is the fastest way to recover refrigerant?

For quick and efficient refrigerant recovery, it is recommended to use large hoses whenever possible. Purging the hoses before recovery is also advisable. These practices help ensure a fast and efficient evacuation process.

4. What are the 3 refrigerant recovery methods?

The three most commonly used refrigerant recovery methods are liquid, vapor, and push-pull. Each method has its own advantages and may be used depending on the specific situation and equipment being worked on.

5. Can you use a vacuum pump to recover refrigerant?

No, a standard vacuum pump is not designed for refrigerant recovery from an A/C system. It is not suitable for this purpose and will not effectively recover the refrigerant.

6. Do you recover refrigerant from high or low side?

When recovering refrigerant, the high-side gauge line is fastened to the king valve or a liquid-line connection of the AC system. The centerline of the gauge manifold is then loosely connected to the refrigerant cylinder.

7. Is it OK to use recovered refrigerant?

Recovered refrigerant can be recycled and reused, but it should only be recharged into equipment belonging to the owner of the equipment from which the refrigerant was recovered. It is important to meet the requirements for proper reclamation and ensure the refrigerant is cleaned and suitable for reuse.

8. How do you recover a large amount of refrigerant?

There are two methods for removing a large amount of refrigerant from a system. The first method involves pumping all available liquid into an approved refrigerant cylinder using the refrigeration system containing the refrigerant. The second method is to use commercially manufactured refrigerant recovery equipment designed for this purpose.

9. What recovery method is the most common HVAC?

The most common method of refrigerant recovery from HVAC systems is the vapor recovery method. This method is widely used in HVAC systems for the recovery of refrigerant.

Editor's Notes

During our refrigerant recovery tool research, we found 24 refrigerant recovery tool products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 19,528 customer reviews through our big data system to write the refrigerant recovery tools list. We found that most customers choose refrigerant recovery tools with an average price of $90.99.

The refrigerant recovery tools are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of refrigerant recovery tools, including Elitech, FAHKNS, YELLOW JACKET, VEVOR, Robinair. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 291 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.