The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved hydrofluoroolefin (HFO-1234yf) as an acceptable substitute chemical for R-12 and other chlorofluorocarbon refrigerants in new motor vehicles. The chemical is intended to replace R-134a, R-12 (“freon”) and other refrigerants since it is believed to have far less global warming potential. However, the “1234yf” rule only applies to new vehicles. It may not be used in retrofitted vehicles or by “do-it-yourselfers” to recharge vehicle air conditioners, pending further review.
Questions may be directed to Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.