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Note for handling R134a refrigerant

Work on the refrigerant circuit may only be carried out by experts! 

Avoid all contact with liquid or gaseous R134a. Wear safety goggles and gloves when working on the refrigerant circuit.

WARNING: Although R134a at normal temperature is non-toxic, not inflammable and not explosive in air in any mixture ratio, it is still essential to follow various safety precautions.

As a gas, R134a is colorless, odorless and heavier than air. If it enters the atmosphere, this may result in an imperceptible danger of asphyxiation or in cardiac palpitations, especially in workshop pits. Ventilate rooms adequately; if necessary, turn on installed extractor systems.

Store filled refrigerant pressure flasks so that they are not subject to direct sunlight or other heat sources (at maximum 45°C). Also avoid exposing them to mechanical claim (e.g. by dropping).

Do not weld or solder on to filled heating and air conditioning systems or in rooms into which R134a may have leaked. Exposure to flames or high temperatures (≥ 50°C) may give rise to toxic decomposition products (fluorine gas). For this reason, do not smoke either.

In the event of fire, carbon dioxide (CO2), extinguishing powder and a sprayed water jet are deemed to be suitable extinguishing agent. Cool reservoirs at risk with a sprayed water jet (risk of bursting!  ).

If the protective caps on the filling valves are difficult to open, there is a risk of injury from leaking valve inserts (high pressure).

The filled refrigerant circuit of the A/C system is subject to excess pressure. Before carrying out repairs on the A/C system, it is absolutely essential to draw off the refrigerant.

R134a must be drawn off, cleaned and returned to the air conditioning using an A/C service station following the relevant operating instructions.

For a properly functioning A/C system, it is essential to have the greatest possible levels of cleanliness when working on the A/C system and the longest possible suction process (at least 30 minutes dehumidification from refrigerant circuit) before each filling of the A/C system.

R134a absorbs very small amounts of moisture. Therefore, seal off opened pipes, air conditioning condenser, evaporator, air conditioning compressor and dryer flask immediately with seal plugs.

With replacement parts, the seal plugs may only be removed immediately before the lines are connected. In the event of warranty claims, the used parts must be provided with plugs to be able to determine the cause of the damage.

Installation note: 

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