Robinair RG3 and RG6 Portable Refrigerant Recovery Machines Review
Today I will be reviewing the 
Robinair RG3 and RG6 Portable Refrigerant Recovery Machines. These are two new and improved recovery machines offered by Robinair. These are tough and rugged and built for everyday technicians. The RG3 is the little brother to the RG6 in size and capacity. Let’s start with some basic information about the RG3.
- Capabilities: Push-Pull, Liquid, Vapor
- Compressor: 1/3 hp, Single Cylinder, Oil-less
- Weight: 18 lbs
The RG3 Portable Recovery Machine is a very light weight recovery machine making it a great choice if you are hauling these onto rooftops on a consistent basis. It can also handle most common CFC, HFC, and HCFC refrigerants. There is also a built in safety switch that automatically shuts off the unit if pressure rises above 550 psi.
The Robinair RG6 Portable Recovery Machine is the big brother to the RG3. The compressor is bigger and has a few features not found on the RG3. Here are the basic stats for the RG6.
- Capabilities: Push-Pull, Liquid, Vapor
- Compressor: ¾ hp, Direct Drive
- Weight: 27 lbs
The increased compressor does increase the weight some but there is an improvement in the recovery rates. Like the RG3, this unit also includes the high pressure auto shut off feature and works with most refrigerants you will find in the field. Another new feature of the RG6 is the self-purge which helps eliminate cross contamination and saves you time.
Below you will find the recovery rates for both units and see how they directly compare.
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Recovery Rate Table per ARI-740-98 |
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Push Pull |
Liquid |
Vapor |
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Units (lbs/min) |
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R22 |
RG3 - 11.76 RG6 - 14.50 |
RG3 – 6.32 RG6 – 9.37 |
RG3 - 0.20 RG6 – 0.59 |
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R410A |
RG3 – 12.62 RG6 – 15.47 |
RG3 – 3.54 RG6 – 7.51 |
RG3 – 0.17 RG6 – 0.37 |
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R134A |
RG3 – 8.84 RG6 – 11.74 |
RG3 – 5.43 RG6 – 6.40 |
RG3 – 0.18 RG6 – 0.42 |
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R407C |
RG3 – 11.59 RG6 – 14.49 |
RG3 – 5.44 RG6 – 7.14 |
RG3 – 0.18 RG6 – 0.53 |
As you can see see, the increase to the large compressor makes a noticeable difference in the recovery rates. That does not mean the RG3 is a slouch by any means. These are both great economical refrigerant recovery machines that will be a great workhorse for any HVAC technician. For our international customers, both of these units come in a 220V version. Simply add -220V to either model and you are good to go.
How often are you using your recovery machines and what features are the most important after the recovery rates? Let us know in the comments!
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