What are the disadvantages of R-1234yf refrigerant?

Author: Felicita Parker  |  Last update: Saturday, December 6, 2025

Cons:
  • More costly and complicated to maintain. 134a is about $10 per pound. The new refrigerant costs about 15 times as much. ...
  • It's mildly flammable. However, it will not ignite without a heat source greater than 1650 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the SAE, the refrigerant is safe for passenger use.

What are the disadvantages of 1234YF refrigerant?

Higher Cost: One of the major drawbacks of R1234YF is its higher price. While R134a costs around $5 per pound, the new refrigerant costs approximately 10 times more. Considering that the average vehicle uses about one to one and a half pounds, the overall cost for a recharge can be significant.

Is R-1234YF being phased out?

R-1234yf is in the newer vehicles. As of 2021 all Vehicles will have the new R-1234yf refrigerant in the vehicle. Advantage Automotive can Service Vehicles will R-134a and R-1234yf. There is no known replacement for the R-1234yf as of today.

What is the life expectancy of R-1234YF?

R1234yf has an atmospheric life of 11 days compared to a 13 year lifespan for R134a. R1234yf compares in efficiency to R134a and has the same cooling capacity. Vehicles using R1234yf are expected to use less fuel and produce 20-30% less CO2 which means a significantly reduced carbon footprint. R1234yf is safe to use.

Which is better compressor R134a or R-1234YF?

The results also shows that the compressor working with R134a performed better than that working with R1234yf when operating under high condensing and low evaporating temperatures. However when the condensing temperature gets lower, R1234yf outperformed R134a.

R-134a vs R-1234yf: What's the difference and how to determine your car’s refrigerant type

What would happen if I put R-134a in a R-1234yf system?

Still, the answer is an emphatic, “No.” Not only would a retrofit of this type negate the environmental benefits of R-1234yf, but it would also be a violation of Federal Law under Section 203 of the Clean Air Act: “tampering” with a vehicle's emissions control device.

What is the best refrigerant for a car AC system?

In most cars that are on the road today, R134a refrigerant makes the A/C system blow cold on hot days. Selected for its low flammability and safety, as well as because it's kinder to the environment, almost every car built since 1994 is equipped with R134 refrigerant. However, kinder is the key word.

What year did they start using 1234yf?

General Motors began introducing vehicles to the market utilizing this new system in 2013 with full conversion in 2018. Chrysler, Honda, and Subaru models followed in 2017. It is anticipated that by 2025 all vehicles will contain 1234YF.

How much does a 1234yf service cost?

An evacuate and recharge of the 1234YF for a standard system is $400.00, If you have a dual unit system the price is $450.00.

Can you use PAG 46 in a 1234yf system?

In with the new

The new refrigerant type uses ND-oil 12, also a PAG 46 oil but with additives specifically for the R1234yf type refrigerant.

Can I convert 1234yf to 134a?

You can convert an empty R-1234yf system to R-134a.

Why was R-134a banned?

Why Is R-134A Being Phased Out? When Is the Phaseout Expected to Conclude? Like a lot of '90s relics, R-134A has not aged well. It was known then that 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane could potentially contribute to acid rain and that its ozone layer depletion potential was high.

Why is R-1234yf so expensive?

Switching to R1234yf refrigerant is a step towards a greener future, but it comes with higher costs due to advanced equipment, stringent regulations, and specialized training.

What precautions should be taken during 1234yf?

Avoid breathing gas. Provide adequate ventilation. Wear appropriate respirator when ventilation is inadequate. Put on appropriate personal protective equipment.

What is the alternative to 1234yf refrigerant?

Indeed, according to Koura, R444A lowers the cabin temperature by around 2°C less than R1234yf, and reaches a temperature of 22°C four minutes faster. Furthermore, the manufacturer claims that this refrigerant is more economical.

Can you use dye in R-1234yf systems?

Modern R-1234yf air conditioning systems have new compatibility requirements for fluorescent leak detection. OEM-Grade Tracerline® R-1234yf dyes are completely compatible and perfect for diagnosing the latest A/C systems.

Is it illegal to put 134a in a 1234yf system?

Vehicles with R-1234yf have different service fittings than R-134a vehicles to prevent cross-contamination with different refrigerants. Also, it's illegal to put R-134a or any other refrigerant into a car originally equipped with R-1234yf.

Can you flush a R-1234yf system?

As standard, all MAHLE ArcticPRO® air conditioning service units have an inte- grated flushing function that allows fast, low-cost flushing of the air conditioning system with the refrigerants R134a or R1234yf. An external flushing unit and parts from a flushing kit will be required— both are available separately.

Will AutoZone recharge my AC?

An AC leak will lead to warmer air from your vents over time. In most cases this can be fixed with a proven stop leak additive to seal up any leaks. When it's time for an AC recharge, turn to AutoZone.

Do you need a license to buy R-1234yf?

If you are purchasing less than 2 pounds of either R-134a or R-1234yf, you are not required to have a license to purchase either refrigerant. However, if you are working with 10- and 25-pound single-use recyclable cylinders you will need Section 608 Technician Certification.

Is 1234yf here to stay?

“More than a trend, R-1234yf is here to stay and is widely accepted as the 'future of automotive refrigerants — in use now.

Is 1234yf explosive?

Hazard statements : Extremely flammable gas. Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated. May displace oxygen and cause rapid suffocation.

Which car brand has the best AC?

Best Car AC – Toyota

The AC performance in Toyota cars is impressive as even the SUVs like the Fortuner cools down in no time. In fact, just like the Maruti cars, Toyota also offers tinted or UV-cut windows that avoids the cabin from getting too hot in summers.

What is the most expensive refrigerant for air conditioners?

Air Conditioner Freon Refill Cost Guide
  • Refill AC Unit Service – $250 to $4,759.
  • R410a – $90 to $120 per pound.
  • R22 – $200 to $250 per pound.

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