An Update on the Future of Refrigerant – R-134A to R-1234YF from RedDOT.
The conversion from R-134A to R-1234YF has everything to do with increasing concerns about the environmental impact of these refrigerants. Three decades ago, R-12 was the industry standard. It was found to cause a depletion of the ozone layer, so R-134a was adopted since it did not contribute to ozone depletion. This solved the problem…or so we thought.
Several years later, it was concluded that many man-made gases were contributing to global warming, and R-134a was one of those contributors. A search for a refrigerant that is both friendly to the ozone layer and doesn’t contribute to global warming was started. R-1234yf solves both of those problems.
The transition away from R-134a refrigerant continues to be a key focus for the heavy-duty vehicle industry as we work toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions. While R-134a remains approved for off-highway applications, its phase-out for newly manufactured vehicles is on the horizon. By 2028, all newly produced off-highway vehicles will no longer use R-134a, marking a significant shift in mobile HVAC systems.
Note – R134a and R1234yf are NOT interchangeable
The EPA originally approved R-1234yf for use in passenger cars at the end of 2020, and since then, it has fully replaced R-134a in that market. However, R-1234yf is not yet approved for Class 6, 7, and 8 trucks. The EPA currently has an application under review for its approval in these larger vehicle classes. Once approved, this transition will play a vital role in reducing the environmental impact of mobile HVAC systems. For context, R-134a has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1,430, whereas R-1234yf has a GWP of only 4. Additionally, while R-134a remains in the atmosphere for around 13 years, R-1234yf breaks down in just 11 days, significantly reducing its environmental footprint.
The good news is that both refrigerants perform very similarly in mobile HVAC applications, but R-1234yf offers a clear environmental advantage.
What Technicians Need to Know
- Newer systems have very small capacities and are much less prone to leakage. This means that technicians need to take care not to overcharge the system. Many OEMs recommend service only every three years. The days of an annual top-off are over.
- Newer systems require newer equipment to service them. Refrigerant recovery machines must comply with the latest regulatory standards and are to be operated only by licensed technicians. These machines can detect which type of refrigerant is present. Refrigerant types are not to be mixed.
- The usage of dyes and sealants is discouraged. Dyes and sealants are considered contaminants and will reduce the performance and longevity of the lubricant. Use refrigerant sniffers for leak detection and repair leaking equipment per SAE and EPA guidelines.
- BG Frigi-Quiet® for R-1234f, PN 702, is not approved for use in HEV or EV vehicles. These vehicles require the use of lubricants that pass proprietary electrical insulation performance standards, which PN 702 does not possess.
This change in automotive refrigerant technology has been the talk of the industry for several years.
R-1234yf will be the industry standard for the foreseeable future. As the industry prepares for these regulatory changes, we encourage customers to stay informed and take advantage of resources like the Mobile Air Climate Systems Association (MACS), which offers a comprehensive certification program on its website.
For more information on Air Conditioning, Filtration & Pressurization, Heating or Refrigeration, call the mobile HVAC specialist Arctic Traveler Canada at 800-295-4156.
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