Refrigerant System Identification

REFRIGERANT SYSTEM IDENTIFICATION
Two refrigerants (R-12 and R-134a) are used in today's air conditioning systems. The refrigerants are not compatible and while system operations and procedures are the same for both, the equipment to service is unique and cannot be used interchangeably.






The label stating A/C refrigerant use in the vehicle is attached in the engine compartment. An R-134a refrigerant system will have gold R-134a non-CFC tags in addition to the refrigerant charge tag.

If a component has been used with R-12, it cannot be used again in an R-134a system. If used in an R-134a system, it cannot be put into a R-12 system. Contamination can occur and performance can be adversely affected because each system uses a different oil designed for that system.

REFRIGERANT IDENTIFIER
Prior to recovering or charging the refrigerant from any vehicle, you must use the Rotunda Refrigerant Identifier or equivalent. The Rotunda Refrigerant Identifier or equivalent is used to identify gas samples taken directly from the refrigeration system or storage containers. The identifier will display either R-12 or R-134a if the purity is better than 98% by weight. The unit will display FAIL if neither of the two gases have been identified or if they are not at least 98% pure. If the gas detected contains a hydrocarbon (flammable material), a horn will sound and the unit will display "HC." After analysis is made and displayed, the identifier purges the unit of the sampled refrigerant gas and is ready for the next sample.

If neither R-12 nor R-134a has been identified as 98% pure, do not service the A/C refrigeration system. Always refer to the refrigerant identifier manufacturer's instructions for proper tool usage.