PRECAUTIONS FOR REFRIGERANT HFO-1234yf (R1234yf)
Compatibility
The parts used in the refrigerant cycle, the compressor oil, etc. of an HFO-1234yf (R1234yf) system are not compatible with a conventional HFC-134a (R134a) system.
HFO-1234yf (R1234yf) Refrigerant
Always use HFO-1234yf (R1234yf) as the refrigerant.
Note
Do not charge the system with refrigerant near open flames, as HFO-1234yf (R1234yf) is combustible.
When charging the system with refrigerant, make sure that the area is well ventilated (especially be careful in areas where the gas can easily accumulate, such as under lifts and in garage pits, as the gas is heavier than air).
Follow any local regulations regarding combustible gases.
Be sure to use a refrigerant recovery unit that is compatible with HFO-1234yf (R1234yf) systems.
Tech Tips
The shape of the service port for refrigerant charging has an exclusive design conforming to international standards for HFO-1234yf (R1234yf) to prevent improper refrigerant charging.
Compressor Oil
As the compressor motor is part of the refrigerant cycle, make sure to use compressor oil which has good electrical insulation performance (ND-OIL 11) to prevent the high-voltage electricity that drives the compressor motor from leaking.
Note
Even if a small amount of any other oil than ND-OIL 11 has been used (for example, ND-OIL 8, ND-OIL 12), electrical insulation performance may be reduced significantly, possibly leading to electricity leakage.
When parts of the air conditioning system are removed, quickly block off any areas that are exposed to the outside air with plugs, vinyl tape, etc., as the oil used for HFO-1234yf (R1234yf) systems absorbs moisture easily.
Do not allow the compressor oil to spray, as the oil used for HFO-1234yf (R1234yf) systems has harmful effects on acrylic resins.
Evacuation
When evacuating the system, be sure to use a refrigerant recovery unit, refrigerant recycler and refrigerant charger that are compatible with HFO-1234yf (R1234yf) systems.
Refrigerant Gas Leak Inspection
Use a gas leak detector to check for refrigerant gas leaks.
Tech Tips
Be sure to use a gas leak detector that is compatible with HFO-1234yf (R1234yf) systems.
Turn the power switch off when checking for refrigerant leaks.
Tech Tips
If the engine is running when checking for leaks, the leaking gas will be diluted by the air from the fan and blower and detection will be more difficult.
If the air conditioning system is operating when checking for leaks, the refrigerant pressure in the system will decrease, making it harder for gas to leak.
If the air conditioning system is operating when checking for leaks, an electronic gas leak detector may react to a sudden change in humidity due to the humid air from the drain hose and a faulty judgment will be made.
PRECAUTIONS RELATED TO REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION OF PARTS
In case refrigerant gets in your eyes
Do not rub your eyes with your hands or a cloth.
Consult an eye doctor.
Handling of Refrigerant (Container)
Do not heat the container. If the container is directly heated or put into boiling water, the pressure inside the container will become abnormally high and the container may burst.
Do not drop or strike the container.
Do not bring the container anywhere near your face. Always wear eye protection.
Pipe Installation
Always use new O-rings.
Tech Tips
When removing an O-ring, use an object with a soft tip so as not to damage the piping.
Apply a sufficient amount of compressor oil (ND-OIL 11) to the O-ring.
Route the hoses in the way they are naturally shaped. Do not twist or forcibly bend the hoses.
Do not use cloth gloves, etc. as fibers attached to O-rings can lead to refrigerant gas leaks.