What are the commonly used refrigerants in automobiles today?
2 Answers
Currently, the commonly used refrigerants in automobiles are: 1. Freon 12: It is a medium-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant widely used in small and medium-sized refrigeration systems in China. It is colorless, transparent, odorless, almost non-toxic, non-flammable, non-explosive, and very safe. 2. R134A: It is widely used for initial installation in new refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment and for replenishment during maintenance. It is currently one of the most widely used medium-to-low temperature environmentally friendly refrigerants. 3. Natural refrigerants: Among various natural refrigerants, alkanes have attracted the attention of scientists worldwide as natural refrigerants, and their application technologies have been extensively studied. Propane, isobutane, and normal butane are some of the components obtained from nature.
I've worked in auto repair shops for over a decade, and handling automotive air conditioning refrigerants is routine for me. Currently, R134a is commonly used, replacing the older R12, as it's more environmentally friendly. R134a is non-flammable, safe, and reliable, suitable for most vehicles. However, professional operation is required during maintenance—don't try adding refrigerant yourself, as it can easily lead to system contamination or leaks. Issues might even become noticeable when using the heater in winter. Newer models are mostly switching to R1234yf because of its lower greenhouse effect, complying with EU environmental standards. But be cautious when using it, as it's slightly flammable and must be handled properly. Regular AC maintenance is crucial for car owners. When checking refrigerant levels, go to a qualified shop to avoid unprofessional handling by small workshops. Aging refrigerant can lead to poor cooling performance, increased power consumption, and higher fuel usage. Overall, choosing refrigerant should follow regulatory updates, with safety always being the top priority. Remember, if your AC has issues, don't panic—professional diagnostics can save you both hassle and money.
