Older fridges and air conditioning units that use this refrigerant will still work efficiently, and converting them to more modern refrigerants will be difficult and unrealistically expensive. The biggest giveaway is the air conditioning connectors. However, its been shown that R134a is as destructive to the environment, and newer refrigerants have been created to overcome this problem. R134a reacts with water to form hydrofluoric acid which damages the internal A/C components. Tech Talk - Differences between R-1234yf and R-134a - FJC Inc . If your car was produced after 1994, it likely has R134a used as the refrigerant. Nevertheless, if your application is configured only for R12, then you can use it or consider replacing the applications engine. The best replacement for R134a is R1234yf, while R12 refrigerant replacement was R134a. A final difference is that most (though not all) R-1234yf cars will have a Suction Line Heat Exchanger. This is because the pressure temperature relationship of R-12 and R-134a is different. Id already decided to, effectively, replace every major component, only re-using the hard aluminum lines and custom fittings on the soft compressor lines. When the ambient air temps get above 80F the gauge readings can run a bit higher on the high side and lower on the low side when using R134a. R134a is NOT less efficient than R12 Actually R134a is more efficient. The safe high side pressures are determined with a PT (pressures and temperatures) chart. All leaks in systems using R134a must be repaired within 30 days. Its chemical symbol is CCl2F2. Can I Use Automotive r134a in a Refrigerator | An Expert Guide Since these days a can of R134a is about $15, the cost differential isnt what it was in the panicked days of the mid-1990s. By noting the ambient temperature you can look up what the preferred high side pressure should be. (To be clear, both cars also have a new rotary-style compressor and a big parallel-flow condenser and fan.). In fact, R12 was used for many years as a propellant in a variety of aerosol products and sprayed directly into the air, and it is closely related to the halon used in fire extinguishers. At this point it is time to make an appointment with the a/c shop. This makes it expensive to purchase and adds to the attraction of replacing it with other greener products. eBay requires that anyone posting an auction for R12 check that the buyer has that certification, but eBay has no way to enforce it. These guidelines are strictly enforced, and contravention of them can lead to severe penalties being imposed. R12 is highly destructive of the ozone layer, and R134a is over 1,000 times more dangerous in terms of global warming than carbon dioxide. Nevertheless, repeat after me: It is illegal to vent refrigerant. 1. This is why it is crucially important that R134a systems be properly evacuated (pumped down to boil off any moisture) and kept sealed. Its often said that R12 is no longer available. So, instead of using R12, other better options include R401b, R134a, R401a, etc. Since you cant vent any refrigerant without breaking the law, and since youll be hard-pressed to find a shop that will recover anything other than R134a, youll have painted yourself into a corner. Reusing Refrigerant: Refrigerant must be properly recycled or reclaimed before it can be reused, even if it is being returned to the vehicle from which it was removed. This chemical is tetrafluoroethane, and its chemical formula is CH2FCF3. Refrigerant 134a, or R134a, was developed as an alternative to the CFC refrigerants known to cause environmental damage. R12 systems use screw-on connectors, while R134a systems use push-on connectors similar to those used in air tools. The Difference Between Refrigerants R134A and R410A Gas? R134a is the most widely accepted alternative automotive refrigerant used to replace R12. Its chemical name is dichlorodifluoromethane, and its chemical formula is CCl2F2. R12 has a global warming potential factor of 2400. As this product is highly damaging to the environment, the environmental treaty signed in Montreal in 1987 stopped the use of CFC refrigerants, which included R12. There are kits that convert R12 to R134a. So to keep things simple and to avoid controversy and politics we have R134a. The cost of recharging the air conditioner is between $150 to $500. These are the major reasons that this product is now banned in many countries and replaced by other refrigerants that dont have such a serious environmental impact. These properties make it popular for domestic and commercial refrigeration. After the optimum refrigerant charge is determined the car should be test driven to check for performance of the system. Then there are three new EPA-approved climate-friendly alternatives. There is R1234yf, which is already being used on new cars but is classified as mildly flammable. At $70 per pound, no one is using it in retrofit applications. We say generally because the vehicle manufacturer may have a formula already worked out for the R134a conversion process. This means that its classified as a greenhouse gas and will add to the current problems of heat not escaping the earths atmosphere. Some compressor manufacturers or OEMs suggest PAG type oil for R134a. While contained within a refrigeration system, this product is safe to use and poses no risk to the planet. Any old black o-rings should be replaced with R134a-compliant green o-rings. Because of this, in the early 1930s, a new refrigerant based on a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), specifically dichlorodifluoromethane, was developed. It is usually sold under the brand name, Freon 12. A vacuum pump, a refrigerant recover system, quality service gauge set with both low and high side gagues, and much more besides the lessons to learn what to do and what not to do. Part # LX-14. A comparison between R12 vs. R134a temperature will show that R12 has a higher temperature than R134a. As R134a was touted as the replacement for R12, and the conversion of the refrigeration system to run R134a was relatively painless, many commercial installations use this refrigerant. Usually, mechanics charge around $200 for conversion. The global warming potential of R134a is 1430. Below are the major differences between R134a and R12: The chemical composition of R12 and R134a differ. Each has its own cult following and requires its own EPA-approved charging fittings. R134a has a GWP of 1430. When theyre in a liquid state, theyll remove heat from air passing over the pipes theyre in and slowly evaporate to form a gas. R134a systems operate at higher discharge-side pressures than R12, which can cause compressor seals to leak. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. R12 fitting vs. R134a - Garage Addicted All in all, I'm very happy with the results and see no reason why they won't last. We chose to use 5-6 ounces of oil to be on the safe side: 3-4 ounces for the compressor, 1 oz of oil for the drier and another ounce of oil for system losses. NOTICE: All images, artwork, text & copy on this site and page are legally protected and are not to be reproduced or distributed without prior written consent of Griffiths Technical Inc.Porsche is a registered trademark of Dr. Ing. However, you will need different recovery machines and other equipment to handle R1234yf. When the sensor detects the refrigerant leak the sniffers lights glow and the sniffer makes a noise. Here are the basics for converting a system that does not have a charge of R12, its empty. The problem with using an approved alternative refrigerants other than R134a is that when the system is serviced it requires certain types of fittings, labels and dedicated equipment. Theres no problem with using R134a in a home air conditioning system because it is a hydrofluorocarbon that doesnt cause environmental harm. R134a systems operate at higher discharge-side pressures than R12, which can cause compressor seals to leak. R1234yf is more environmentally friendly and has a global warming potential of 4. Heres R12 vs. R134a pressure chart. Its called Polyol Ester Oil or POE oil. I have never see the other way around. With that said, Ill agree that the flammability issue may not be as black-and-white as it appears. R134a Expansion valve different from R12? - Automotive Air Conditioning How to Convert Your Car AC R12 System to R134a Its often said that buying or selling R12 is illegal. Rxmechanic.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for website owners to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. They might say for instance, add 3-4 oz of oil to the compressor, 1 oz of oil for when you replace a drier, 2 oz oil for the evaporator and so on. There should also be a blue sticker somewhere on the system telling you the date the system was converted. The question instead is: Why is the system dead? His new book, Just Needs a Recharge: The Hack Mechanic Guide to Vintage Air Conditioning, is now available on Amazon. Can You Use R134a Gauges On R410a? [ Answered ] - My Vehicle Talk Therefore, its most suitable for both commercial and domestic environments. Unfortunately, this product still contains chlorine. Theres one type of oil that will work with both refrigerants. R12 is highly destructive to the earths ozone layer. In most cases, the systems used have varied components, designs, and service ports. Its been likened to trying to convert a petrol engine to run on diesel. For this reason, when a car is being sold these days, R12 is often seen as a liability, a looming conversion expense, even if the system is functional and cold. Awareness of Changing Refrigerant Types - I-CAR R134a is the most commonly used refrigerant to convert automotive air conditioning away from the destructive R12. The approval is very legal one, governed by the U.S. EPA. Problem solved, right? In addition to it having a low ODP, science has proven that R22 is also a strong greenhouse gas and has a GWP of 1810, indicating that its 1810 times more powerful than carbon dioxide in contributing to global warming. Generally you follow the refrigerant flow moving from connection to connection, component to component, and you sniff the a/c vents to check for evaporator leaks as well. Amazon.com: Lichamp HVAC R410A Manifold Gauge Set AC R134A, Freon R22 The new player in the market is HFO-1234yf (R-1234yf), which is considered ozone-friendly and has a GWP of less than 1. The typical scenario here is when the car owner buys an inexpensive retro-fit kit from the local auto parts store. This means that it has a high potential of causing depletion to the ozone layer. When R12s effects on the ozone layer became known and it was superseded by R134a, EPA came down hard with large fines on both professionals and DIY-ers. Theyve moved away from using R12 in favor of more modern, environmentally safer products. Bottom line, R134a simply doesn't cool as well as R12. There are significant differences between R12, R134a, and R513A, which must be considered when handling, processing, applying, or retrofitting with these refrigerants. AC R-134 Manifold Gauge Sets & Replacement Parts for Car AC Gauges Relevant Characteristics Between R12 and R134a, R12 vs R134a Refrigerant: What is the Difference? At room temperature R410a has a pressure of nearly 200 psi, while R134a is around 70 psi. If you still find it difficult to use R134a in a home AC system, you can check out a comparison of R12 vs R134a fittings to know the refrigerant that best fits the AC system. Next, add a can of R12a from the low side fitting while running your A/C. PDF R134a R513A - Tecumseh Products Not so fast. The problem in all of this is the sentence As long as the system is functioning correctly and not leaking. Who in their right mind would take a tight, cold, R12-based system and convert it to less-efficient R134a? The hose length is 60 inches and comes with a 1-year warranty. They behave in the same way when used in any form of refrigeration or air conditioning plant. This ability has encouraged R12 in a wide variety of applications and over a wide range of temperature variables. With the knowledge of the differences, youll be able to draw a comparison between R12 vs R134a efficiency. Another difference is that yf Evaporators must meet SAE Spec J2842, which was not an issue in R-134a systems. Also, the EPA 609 certification can be easily obtained by taking an online exam. What's the difference between these and how do. If your car does not have a high pressure cut-out switch in the AC system then youll need to have one installed (call us if you need help). If youre going to go to all that effort on a vintage car with an A/C system that hasnt been used in years, it usually behooves you do a full-on rejuvenation of the system and replace the compressor with a new compact rotary-style unit, replace the condenser with the largest parallel-flow condenser and big fan thatll fit in the nose of the car, make all new hoses, and flush the evaporator. Subtract or 0.25 pounds from this number. These two refrigerants are very similar. Thank you! The effect that R134a has on global warming makes this gas an unattractive product to many technicians. However, theyre still used in older plants, systems, and the automotive industry. Also, the fittings and hoses should be perfectly compatible with R410A. Many older automotive systems still use R12, and as youre still able to purchase individual small cans of this refrigerant via on-line marketplaces, its use in many classic motor vehicles will likely continue. R-134a entirely dominated the automotive market by 1994. Besides, R134a refrigerant was manufactured after R12 was banned to help reduce the harshness of the old chemical (R12) on the ozone layer. R134a is called tetrafluoroethane (HFC). On the high side, R134a pressure runs about 10% higher pressure than R12 at equivalent temperatures. 21, 1439 AH. R-12 and R-134a use different size fittings in order to avoid mixing the two types of refrigerant. Generally the system will be initially charged with approximately 80% to 85% of the original amount of R12, using R134a. R12, on the other hand, is called chlorofluorocarbon (CFC). A/C R12-to-R12a Refrigerant Recharge Results - Forums By using a qualified a/c shop with the proper equipment you odds are in your favor of having the job done correctly the first time. R134a is an HFC or tetrafluoroethane, and its chemical formula is CH2FCF3. This gas is then cooled via environmental means, and the gas slowly loses heat and reverts to a liquid state. This means that the tiny droplets of oil from the compressor that end up in the refrigerant will be returned via the compressors refrigerant; they wont block pipes. Lets take you through the advantages, disadvantages, and differences of these two refrigerants a detailed comparison including R12 vs R134a performance. Only licensed air conditioning companies and technicians may purchase this refrigerant. The main difference between R12, R134a, and R1234yf is their effect on the environment. Yes R12 systems did cool better than R134a, but there are differences and it is not wise to go back wards. It also means that rotary, centrifugal, and reciprocating compressors can be used with R12. R12 connectors were of the screw type, while R134a has push-on connectors similar to air tools. There is R744, which is literally carbon dioxide (CO2). Once you take these precautions, it would be possible to use R134A gauges R410A systems seamlessly. Of course, the receiver/drier needs to be replaced, as it does any time an A/C system is opened. R134a has an ozone depletion potential of zero and a global warming potential of 1430. In addition, there was the lubricant issue. However, there wereand aresome challenges to using it in an automotive A/C system designed for R12. Gauges are used to read the pressure of various liquids and gases in a cooling system, as well as vacuum pressure in the process of testing or charging the device. Dont do it. The problem is that some inexpensive available refrigerantsammonia and propane, for exampleare poisonous and/or flammable. Because of this products greenhouse gas attributes, its manufacture has been banned in the European Union since 2011, and motor manufacturers stopped using it in motor vehicle air conditioning at that time. The original expansion valves work very well with R134a. In contrast, the most likely reason youd consider recharging with an alternative refrigerant is because the refrigerant leaked out of your car and youre trying to avoid doing a full-on A/C rejuvenation which includes finding the leak and properly changing refrigerants. However, some old air conditioning units still use them. Why and How to Use HVAC Manifold Gauges - Mega Depot R134a was the replacement refrigerant for R12. Ive always liked them. In many parts of the world, its now viewed as a greenhouse gas, and its use is discouraged. I did a beer cooler with a target temp of 36 degrees, these are largely different pressures than you'll see in automotive which has a max desired temp of 60 degrees. So, along with R134a came a new oil: Polyalkylene Glycolor PAG oil. You might find that the system doesn't get as cool even after properly charging it. R134a has a boiling point of -14.9 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas R410 boils at -61.9 degrees. Welcome to rxmechanic.com. Most importantly, the oil used in the plant must always be compatible with the refrigerant used. But once youre on that path, you can improve the system with a new compressor and parallel-flow condenser which, in most cases, will allow you to get good results with R134a. Ed. Its unlikely that air conditioners or refrigeration plants will be converted from R12 or R134a to R22, but it can be done if reclaimed R22 refrigerant can be located. There are many thousands of older air conditioning and refrigeration plants that use these refrigerants. dye and seal. Energy usage: R134a is less efficient in cooling compared to R12. 2021 Complete Guide. While R513A is a viable option for new and existing equipment, it is not a "drop- in" replacement for R12 or R134a. Its improbable that any new installation will be built that uses this refrigerant as its use is deemed highly undesirable in many countries and international environmental treaties discourage its use. Chemistry. Whether R134a performs as well as R12 in any given a/c system depends upon system components and the amount of R134a used. The most common influences which effect the capability of R134a to perform well are the condenser, in some cases the the superheat setting of the expansion valve or the amount of R134a. The Internet is a large and often-strange place, and if you want to search for sites that claim that R12 isnt harmful to the ozone layer, and that the whole thing was a conspiracy by DuPont because its patent on R12 was about to expire, youll find them. Remove the old mineral oil from the compressor by turning it upside down, side to side, and turn the front hub on the clutch assembly. This is a remarkable read about the history of R12 to R134a, and the reasons and (few) exceptions to not convert to R134a. Get it as soon as Thursday, Apr 20. No, its not possible to mix these two refrigerants. Its highest value is 1. SureBilt R-134a High and Low Side Service Port Repair Kit $ 5. R134a vs R12 - What is the Differences? - Rx Mechanic The problems that arise are related to the oils used in the system and the fact that they have different charge weights and different boiling points. Thats simply not true. Both of these refrigerants wont be used in new air conditioning or refrigeration plants, but theyll continue to be used in existing plants and the automotive industry. ZENY 3,5CFM Single-Stage 5 Pa Rotary Vane Economy Vacuum Pump 3 CFM 1/4HP Air Conditioner Refrigerant HVAC Air Tool R410a 1/4" Flare Inlet . However, if it is taken close to a fire flame or any electrical heating element, it disintegrates into toxic products. The reason is that the vehicles, for instance, manufactured currently configure the engine for R1234yf refrigerant, making no provision for replacement. Theres a lot of misinformation surrounding R12. Unfortunately, taking the longer view of things, even if you do leak-test a car thoroughly and properly all A/C systems leak eventually, so any can of R12 you put into a car will likely wind up in the atmosphere, an eventuality that I am less and less comfortable with. Hence, the effect of R12 on global warming is up to 10,000 times higher than carbon dioxide. See your PT chart. With the differences between the two refrigerants in mind, it goes without saying that charging an R12 system with R134a can have some serious negative effects. Certainly no one selling cans of R12 on Craigslist is asking for your EPA 609 card. When ever possible you should ask the technician to note the same information on your repair bill and keep a copy in your glove box for future reference. R134a is a pure refrigerant that is sometimes used in blends, while R410a is itself a blend. A qualified technician should vacuum out the gas and the refrigerant changed for something more modern and environmentally sympathetic. You should keep in mind that recharging your air conditioner improperly could result in more serious damage. Even if youre OK with that, if the system needs work, any refrigerant in it will need to be recovered. We learned the theory behind refrigeration and air conditioning, which centers on this wonderfully useful bit of physics: When liquid boils and evaporates into a gas, it expands and cools.