Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Handling Refrigerant-12

Air conditioning systems contain Refrigerant-12. This is a chemical mixture which requires special handling procedures to avoid personal injury.

Always wear goggles and wrap a clean cloth around fittings, valves,and connections when performing work that involved opening the refrigerant system.

Always work in a well ventilated area and do not weld or steam clean on or near any car installed air conditioning lines or components.

If Refrigerant-12 should come in contact with any part of the body,flush the exposed area with cold water and immediately seek medical help.

All Refrigerant-12 drums are shipped with a heavy metal screw cap. The purpose of the cap is to protect the valve and safety plug from damage. It is good practice to replace the cap after each use of the drum for this same reason.

If it is necessary to transport or carry any container of Refrigerant-12 in a vehicle, do not carry it in the passenger compartment.

If the occasion arises to fill a small Refrigerant-12 drum from a large one, never fill the drum completely. Space should always be allowed above the liquid for expansion.