Heating and Air Conditioning: Service Precautions
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Safety Warnings
WARNING: Take the following precautions when repairing an air conditioning system containing R-134a:
- Always wear safety goggles.
- Avoid contact with liquid refrigerant R-134a. R-134a vaporizes at approximately -25 °C (-13 °F) under atmospheric pressure and will freeze skin tissue.
- Never allow refrigerant R-134a gas to escape in quantity in an occupied space. It will displace the oxygen needed to support life.
- Never use a torch in an atmosphere containing R-134a gas. R-134a is non-toxic at all normal conditions, but it decomposes when exposed to high temperatures such as a torch flame. During decomposition it releases irritating and toxic gasses (as described in the MSDS sheet from the manufacturer). Decomposition products are hydrofluoric acid, carbon dioxide and water.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.
WARNING:
- Before disconnecting any heater water hoses, shut OFF the engine and wait until engine is fully cool. Failure to comply with this warning may result in serious injury or burns from hot liquid escaping from the engine cooling system.
- Use extreme care and observe all safety and service precautions related to the use of refrigerants as outlined on refrigerant tank and on recovery and charging equipment. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.