Refrigerant Handling Precautions

^ R-12 refrigerant and R-134a refrigerant must never be mixed, even in the smallest amounts, as they are incompatible with each other. If the refrigerants are mixed, compressor failure is likely to occur.

^ Use only specified lubricant for the R-134a A/C system and R-134a components. If lubricants other than those specified are used, compressor failure is likely to occur.

^ The specified R-134a lubricant absorbs moisture from the atmosphere at a rapid rate, therefore the following handling precautions must be observed:

^ When removing refrigerant components from a vehicle, immediately cap (seal) the component to minimize the entry of moisture from the atmosphere.

^ When installing refrigerant components to a vehicle, do not remove the caps (unseal) until just before connecting the components. Also, complete the connection of all refrigerant tubes and hoses without delay to minimize the entry of moisture into the system.

^ Use the specified lubricant from a sealed container only. Containers must be re-sealed immediately after dispensing the lubricant. Lubricant in containers which are not properly sealed will become moisture saturated. Such lubricant is no longer suitable for use and should be properly disposed.

^ Avoid breathing A/C refrigerant and lubricant vapor or mist. Exposure may irritate eyes, nose and throat. Use only approved service equipment meeting SAE standards to discharge R-134a Systems.

^ If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate the work area before resuming service.

^ Always wear eye and hand protection (goggles and gloves) when working with any refrigerant or air conditioning system.

^ Do not store or heat refrigerant containers above 125° (52°C).

^ Do not heat a refrigerant container with an open flame; if container warming is required, place the bottom of the container in a pail of warm water.

^ Do not intentionally drop, puncture, or incinerate refrigerant containers.

^ Keep refrigerant away from open flames: hazardous gas will be produced if refrigerant burns.

^ Refrigerant will displace oxygen, therefore be certain to work in well ventilated areas to prevent suffocation.

^ Do not introduce compressed air to any refrigerant container or refrigerant component, because contamination will occur.

^ R-134a in the presence of oxygen and under pressure may form a combustible mixture. Therefore, never introduce compressed air into any R-134a container, cylinder, A/C component, recover/recycle equipment, or other service equipment. This includes "empty" containers.