Technician Safety Information

Safety Instructions For Handling Refrigerant R 134a


WARNING: Although R 134a at normal temperature is non-toxic, non-flammable and not explosive in air in any mixture ratio, it is still essential to follow various safety precautions.


R 134a must be drawn off, cleaned and returned to the A/C system with a service station following the relevant operating instructions.

Avoid all contact with liquid or gaseous R 134a. Wear protective goggles and gloves when working on the refrigerant circuit. R 134a acting on the skin can cause frostbite. Wash off thoroughly with cold water. If R 134a gets into the eyes, take out contact lenses (if worn) and rinse with plenty of water. Then seek immediate medical attention. Likewise seek immediate medical attention if you experience problems after inhaling R 134a fumes.

R 134a is heavier than air and if it enters the atmosphere can result in a previously imperceptible risk of asphyxiation or in heart palpitations (particularly in workshop pits) as it is colorless and odorless in gaseous form. Turn on extraction systems.

Prerequisite for air conditioner to function effectively is optimum cleanliness when working on the air conditioner and optimum evacuation procedure (at least 30 minutes de-humidifying from refrigerant circuit) on air conditioner. R 134a absorbs moisture very easily. Therefore seal off opened pipes, condenser, evaporator, compressor and drier bottle immediately with plugs.

With replacement parts, the plugs may only be removed immediately before the lines are connected.

In the event of warranty claims, the old parts must be provided with plugs to be able to determine the cause of the damage.

If an A/C system has been completely drained due to leakage, accident or repairs, the drier bottle must be replaced because too much moisture may have penetrated.

Store filled pressurized refrigerant bottles in areas away from direct sunlight and other heat sources (max. 50 °C). In the event of fire, carbon dioxide (CO2), extinguishant powder and a sprayed water jet are deemed to be suitable extinguishants. Cool reservoirs at risk with a sprayed water jet (risk of bursting!).


CAUTION: After each refill of an A/C system, check that protective caps of filling valves are hand-tight. They serve as additional seals.