Heating and Air Conditioning: Service Precautions

WHEN HANDLING REFRIGERANT
1. R-134a liquid refrigerant is highly volatile. A drop on the skin of your hand could result in localized frostbite. When handling the refrigerant, be sure to wear gloves.
2. If the refrigerant splashes into your eyes, wash them with clean water immediately. It is standard practice to wear goggles or glasses to protect your eyes, and gloves to protect your hands.
3. The R-134a container is a highly pressurized, never leave it in a hot place, and check that the storage temperature is below 52 °C (126 °F).
4. A leak detector is often used to check the system for refrigerant leakage. Bear in mind that R-134a, upon coming into contact with flame (this detector burns propane to produce a small flame), produces phosgene, a toxic gas.
5. Use only recommended lubricant for R-134a A/C system and components. If lubricants other but recommended one used are system failure may occur.
6. The PAG lubricant absorbs moisture from the atmosphere at a rapid rate, therefore the following precautions must be observed:
- When removing refrigerant components from a vehicle cap immediately the components to prevent A/C system from the entry of moisture.
- When installing refrigerant components to a vehicle, do not remove the cap until just before connecting the components.
- Complete the connection of all refrigerant tubes and hoses without delay to prevent the A/C system from entry of moisture.
- Use the recommended lubricant from a sealed container only.
7. If an accidental discharge in the system occurs, ventilate the work area before resuming service.




WHEN REPLACING PARTS ON A/C SYSTEM
1. Never open or loosen a connection before discharging the system.
2. Seal the open fittings with a cap or plug immediately in disconnected parts to prevent intrusion of moisture or dust.
3. Do not remove the sealing caps from a replacement component until it is ready to be installed.
4. Before connecting an open fitting, always install a new sealing ring. Coat the fitting and seal with refrigerant oil before making the connection.

WHEN INSTALLING CONNECTING PARTS




FLANGE WITH GUIDE PIN
Check the new O-ring for damage or something missed (use only specified one) and lubricate using compressor oil. Tighten with hand the nut by pushing the one side pipe. Tighten the nut to specified torque.

HANDLING TUBING AND FITTINGS
The internal parts of the refrigeration system will remain in a state of chemical stability as long as pure moisture-free refrigerant and refrigerant oil are used. Abnormal amounts of dirt, moisture or air can upset the chemical stability and cause problems or serious damage.

THE FOLLOWING PRECAUTIONS MUST BE OBSERVED
1. When it is necessary to open the refrigeration system, have everything you will need to service the system ready so the system will not be left open any longer than necessary.
2. Cap or plug all lines and fittings as soon as they are opened to prevent the entrance of dirt and moisture.
3. All lines and components in parts stock should be capped or sealed until they are ready to be used.
4. Never attempt to rebend formed lines to fit. Use the correct line for the installation you are servicing.
5. All tools, including the refrigerant dispensing manifold, the gauge set manifold and test hoses should be kept clean and dry.