How to Add R134 to Your Car

R134 is the name commonly given to R134a, or tetrafluoroethane, a freon gas refrigerant similar to R-12, but with less potential damage to the ozone layer when released into the atmosphere. It is used in car air-conditioning systems to lower the temperature of the car's passenger area. R134 should only be used in air-conditioning systems designed for it, and not mixed with R-12. Cars manufactured since 1995 require R134. Cars may occasionally need to be topped up with R134, which you can do yourself at home.

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Can of R134
Recharge service hose
Low-pressure gauge
Safety glasses
Work gloves

Instructions

- 1
  
  Find the service fitting on the car's air-conditioning system under the hood of your car. This is where you will connect the recharge service hose.
- 2
  
  Put on your safety glasses and work gloves. Then fasten a low-pressure gauge to the recharge service hose.
- 3
  
  Expel the air from the hose by holding the can in an upright position and gently opening the valve of the hose, then close the valve. This will fill the hose with R134. Do not tip the can, as this may allow liquid R134 to drip into the hose. Only the gas should go into your car air-conditioning system, never the liquid.
- 4
  
  Start the car and turn the air conditioner on its maximum setting.
- 5
  
  Insert the hose into the service fitting of your car's air-conditioning system, then open the valve on the service hose.
- 6
  
  Allow the gas to pass into the car air-conditioning system. This may take several minutes.
- 7
  
  Close the valve on the service hose when the gauge on the hose approaches 40 psi (pounds per square inch). Never let the gauge go beyond 50 psi or you will damage the air conditioner.
- 8
  
  Turn off your car. Set the can of R134 aside with the hose and gauge intact for next time.

Tips & Warnings

If you find you are refilling your car with R134 on a regular basis, take your car to a mechanic to look for leaks.
Never let any coolant, including R134, get on your skin or into your eyes. If this happens, seek medical attention.

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How to Add R134 to Your Car

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