What Type of Freon Does My Vehicle’s A/C System Take?
So Many Types of Freon -- Who Knew?
Air conditioning systems have changed the type of gas used to cool your car. Putting the proper freon in your vehicle's air conditioning system is very important. With different types of freon taking different oils and different charge amounts. This is why the proper freon and the correct amount of freon added is important to your vehicle.
What is R-12 Refrigerant?
R-12 air conditioning systems were first used until R-134A was released. R-12 production stopped worldwide by January 1, 1996, making it very expensive. The reasoning behind why to get rid of R-12 was that it was very harmful to the atmosphere. Vehicles can be retrofitted, but it will require different metering valves, system oil, and possible an air conditioning compressor.
What is R-134A?
R-134A was a replacement for R-12. R-134A was an effective replacement and not nearly as harmful to the environment. Though it did run under different pressures, it was an option that was non-flammable and that was important to the safety of people in vehicles involved in car accidents. You still must have a 608 or 609 certification to purchase R-134A as an effective replacement.
What is R-1234yf?
The new move to R-1234yf is completely an environmental move. R-1234yf has 300 times lower global warming potential than R-134A! Now as safety goes, it is a flammable gas that will light with an open flame but will not continue burning if the flame goes out. In 2013, General Motors started the use with full conversion in 2018. Most manufacturers followed and it is estimated that by 2025 all new vehicles will contain R-1234yf.
Your Local Vehicle A/C Specialists
With the weather warming up, it's the perfect time to make sure your vehicle's A/C is functioning properly. If you have questions regarding which type of freon your car, truck, or SUV takes, give the experts at Mad Hatter Auto Repair a call! In Omaha, call (402)-330-2286, and if you are in Council Bluffs, call (712) 322-7500. We'd be happy to help you out!