Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT) Practice Exam

Prioritizing the inspection for refrigerant leaks during a routine maintenance check is crucial because refrigerant is essential for the cooling process in HVAC systems. A leak not only affects the efficiency and performance of the system but can also lead to costly repairs and increased energy consumption. Detecting and addressing refrigerant leaks early helps to ensure that the cooling system operates at peak efficiency, thereby extending its lifespan and enhancing tenant comfort.

While cleaning the external unit and replacing filters are important maintenance tasks, they typically follow the more critical need to ensure that the system is functioning properly and safely. Ignoring refrigerant leaks could lead to more significant problems, including system failure or environmental hazards, making it the top priority during maintenance checks. Regularly inspecting for such leaks is also a part of adhering to safety regulations and maintaining compliance with environmental standards.