Robinair RG3 Portable Refrigerant Recovery Machine (230V)

The Robinair RG3 is a compact portable refrigerant recovery machine for technicians who want a lighter, easier-to-carry unit for residential, appliance-sized and light commercial recovery work. If you need a machine that is simple to load into the van, easy to carry onto roofs, and capable of liquid, vapour and push-pull recovery, the RG3 is a strong fit. Browse all recovery units or explore more Robinair HVAC tools.

Quick summary

The Robinair RG3-230 combines a compact cube-style footprint with a 1/3 hp oil-less compressor, high-pressure safety shut-off and 230V power, making it well suited to day-to-day recovery work where portability matters just as much as performance.

Best for

• HVAC/R service technicians who need a portable recovery unit for frequent callouts
• Residential split-system, appliance-sized and light commercial recovery jobs
• Workflows where low weight, easy carrying and simple 2-valve operation matter
• Technicians recovering common CFC, HFC and HCFC refrigerants, including R-410A

Not ideal for

• High-volume commercial recovery where maximum speed is the main priority
• Workshops wanting a larger twin-cylinder machine for faster bulk liquid recovery
• Jobs involving mildly flammable refrigerants where an A2L-rated recovery unit is specifically required

Why tradies like this model

• Compact and easy to carry: about 8 kg with a smaller footprint than many larger recovery machines
• Handles multiple recovery methods: supports push-pull, liquid and vapour recovery
• Oil-less compressor: 1/3 hp single-cylinder design for everyday portability and straightforward service work
• Safety shut-off protection: automatically shuts down if pressure rises above 550 psi
• Simple field use: easy-to-read gauges, comfortable handle and straightforward 2-valve controls

Key specs

Compatibility and setup notes

This model is positioned as a compact recovery unit for common CFC, HFC and HCFC work, including R-410A. If you mainly work on larger commercial systems and want faster bulk recovery, step up to a larger machine in our recovery units collection. For safe recovery work in Australia, pair your machine with suitable refrigerant hoses, a calibrated refrigerant scale, and an approved recovery cylinder in test date. For job planning and recovery-method basics, see our guide to refrigerant recovery methods.

For manufacturer specs and documentation, see the official Robinair RG3-230 product page. For Australian recovery and licensing guidance, refer to the ARC refrigerant recovery guidance and the current ARC refrigerant handling codes of practice.

What’s included

• Robinair RG3 portable refrigerant recovery machine
• IEC connector and power cord

What you may also need

• Refrigerant scales – for accurate cylinder weight checks during recovery
• Refrigerant hoses – choose hose size and pressure rating to suit the refrigerant and service ports
• Vacuum pumps – for evacuation after repair or component replacement
• Robinair 15501-S2 vacuum pump – a logical companion product if you want to stay within the Robinair range
• Request a personalised quote – handy for trade orders, van fit-outs and multi-item jobs

Why choose the RG3 over a larger recovery machine?

The RG3 is built for portability first. That makes it a practical choice for technicians climbing ladders, moving across rooftops or working in tight residential spaces where a bulkier machine becomes a nuisance. If your priority is bigger refrigerant volumes and faster commercial turnaround, a heavier-duty model may suit you better. If your priority is a compact everyday unit, the RG3 is the more practical option.

FAQs

Is the Robinair RG3 a good option for residential split-system work?

Yes. Its compact size, light weight and support for liquid, vapour and push-pull recovery make it well suited to residential and appliance-sized jobs.

Does this recovery machine support R-410A?

Yes. Robinair lists the RG3 for common CFC, HFC and HCFC refrigerants, including R-410A.

Is this the right choice for large commercial recovery jobs?

It can be used for many service tasks, but if recovery speed on larger refrigerant volumes is your main priority, a larger or twin-cylinder recovery unit is usually the better fit.

Can I use this for R32 or other A2L refrigerants?

Check the exact refrigerant and compliance requirements for your work. If you need an A2L-rated recovery machine for mildly flammable refrigerants, choose a model specifically listed for that duty rather than assuming compatibility.

What else do I need besides the machine?

Most technicians also need suitable recovery hoses, a calibrated refrigerant scale, an approved recovery cylinder, and often evacuation equipment for the post-repair workflow.

Does this unit recover liquid and vapour?

Yes. Robinair lists the RG3 for push-pull, liquid and vapour recovery.

Does refrigerant recovery need to be done by a licensed technician in Australia?

In many cases, yes. If the work involves handling refrigerant or activities where refrigerant could be emitted, it should be carried out by an appropriately licensed person following ARC guidance and the relevant code of practice.