The AIM Act leak repair rule: what it covers and what it requires
Since January 1, 2026, owners and operators of larger refrigerant-containing appliances have to calculate leak rates when they add refrigerant, repair leaks above set trigger rates, verify the repair, and keep records. The requirements are in 40 CFR 84.106, under the AIM Act (the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act).
Which appliances are covered
The rule applies to appliances with a full charge of 15 pounds or more of a refrigerant that is a regulated HFC, or a substitute with a global warming potential greater than 53. It took effect January 1, 2026.
The rule does not apply to appliances that contain only an ozone-depleting substance as the refrigerant, or to residential and light commercial air-conditioning systems. Check the regulation's definitions for your equipment.
Leak rate triggers
The trigger depends on the appliance type. A calculated leak rate above the trigger starts the repair requirement.
| Appliance type | Trigger |
|---|---|
| Commercial refrigeration | 20% |
| Industrial process refrigeration | 30% |
| Comfort cooling, refrigerated transport, other appliances | 10% |
When you calculate
You calculate the leak rate each time refrigerant is added to a covered appliance, using either the annualizing method or the rolling average method. Use the same method for all appliances at a facility. The formulas and worked examples are in how to calculate a refrigerant leak rate.
Repair and verification
When an addition pushes an appliance over its trigger, leak repairs are due within 30 days, or 120 days if an industrial process shutdown is required. The repair then has to be confirmed with an initial verification test and a follow-up test. See the repair and verification timeline for the details.
Records
Records must be kept for at least three years, on paper or electronically. They cover the appliance's full charge and how it was determined, service and repair events with refrigerant amounts and leak rates, inspections, and verification tests. The records checklist lists what to keep.
Common questions
What size appliance does the rule cover?
A full charge of 15 pounds or more of a regulated HFC or a substitute with a GWP above 53.
What leak rate triggers a repair?
Over 20% for commercial refrigeration, over 30% for industrial process refrigeration, and over 10% for comfort cooling, refrigerated transport and other appliances.
How long do I have to repair a leak?
30 days from the addition that exceeded the trigger, or 120 days if an industrial process shutdown is needed.
How long do I keep the records?
At least three years.
Run the numbers for your system. The calculator handles both methods, shows the repair trigger for your appliance type and the repair deadline, and prints a record for the job file. Nothing you enter is stored.
Open the leak rate calculatorSource: 40 CFR 84.106, Leak repair (also on eCFR). This guide is informational and is not legal advice. Last reviewed October 2026. Check the current regulation and your own records before relying on it.