New A/C Refrigerant Means Changes To Certification Test For Mechanics

by Andrea L. Algar
Motorheads Performance

A major announcement was made to certified technicians last week that ASE's testing on Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling will be modified due to upcoming changes in refrigerants that we use in A/C cooling systems.  This is the first substantial change to be made in two decades, and it will affect every shop in some fashion.


Automotive A/C System Diagram
Photo Credit: autotechsform.com

 ASE testing is administered to mechanics and technicians who are certified through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. ASE's testing is designed to have technicians demonstrate that they are properly trained and knowledgeable in various types of automotive service and repairs. Technicians typically certify themselves only in the area of specialty they have. The new regulations and test changes may not affect every ASE certified technician. A mechanic who works in a transmission shop may have ASE certification in transmissions, so A/C tests may not apply to them. There are rarely changes to the tests themselves unless there are major changes are made within the automotive industry, so when changes are made, it's news!

As you may remember, R-134a refrigerant replaced R-12 almost 20 years ago. The change was made in response to claims that R-12 was depleting our ozone, and a safer alternative was sought. A new refrigerant called HFO-1234yf (boy that's a mouthful) is making its debut this year in some new automobile models. Although it will be slow to fully integrate, the changes will most certainly be felt soon.

The reason? In order to comply with the EPA, dealerships and repair shops will need to comply with new regulations which will be released later this year. ASE is on-board with the program, and will be changing their tests to include questions on the new HFO-1234yf refrigerant. The Cadillac XTS is reportedly the first U.S. car that will come with factory installed HFO-1234yf system. Other makes and models will follow with the new refrigerant.

Why is the change being mandated? Simply put, because of the environmental initiatives which have become focused on global warming. Gases are all now categorized, being rated according to how they are believed to affect climate change. This rating is called the GWP, or Global Warming Potential. The lower the level, the less it is to affect climate change and thus global warming. R-134a has a GWP of 1300 and is considered too high. I don't even know what the rating on R-12 was, but I imagine it may have been even higher. The new HFO-1234yf is seen as desirable because it has a GWP of only 4.

Apparently there were other alternatives which European automakers came up with, one called R-744 achieving a GWP of 1, but their system relied on CO2 and needed operating pressures that were considered too high to integrate without having to use specialized components and requiring anyone handling the system to have specialized training. It is uncertain just how far regulations and guidelines will push change for older vehicles, or whether they will be grandfathered in as they've done in previous transitions.

Facts About The New HFO-1234yf System

The new HFO-1234yf system has unique service fittings, as well as different performance requirements. A dedicated refrigerant recovery and recycling machine will be needed for the new refrigerant. And, because the new recovery procedures, the machine will not be allowed to recover refrigerant until it first checks the purity. If the refrigerant does not pass the purity test, special recovery-only equipment must be used to evacuate the system until the refrigerant can be disposed of, again with new regulations on that. In addition to the new recovery-recycling machine, the new special recovery-only equipment, and equipment for the storage of non-pure refrigerant, new leak detectors and refrigerant identifiers will also be required. This will be a big cost for shops, regardless of their size, and will most likely increase the cost of A/C charging and A/C repairs dramatically. Unlike previous changes, it will be illegal to retrofit F-134a systems to the new HFO-1234yf system, and ASE literature warns, "the two refrigerants should never be mixed, no matter the scenario."

So, HFO-1234yf has won the hearts of those worried about global warming, and it is slated to have all the new regulations and guidelines for it by the end of 2012. In the meantime, ASE tests are being modified so that they will be in compliance with the new system requirements. Visit the ASE website for additional information on requirements for ASE Refrigerant Recovery Program, which is designed to meet the EPA's 609 Program, and the A-7 Heating & Air Conditioning tests.

RESOURCE:
ASE - Refrigerant Recovery Program
ASE - Auto & Light Truck Certification

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andrea L. Algar is co-owner of a classic car performance and restoration design shop in Leesville, Texas. Motorheads Performance specializes in repairs, maintenance, performance upgrades and restorative work on cars and trucks from the 1920’s through 1970’s. Her husband Guy L. Algar is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years experience. He holds 5 ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and has been working on old cars and trucks for over 37 years. Together they share their passion for old cars and trucks with other enthusiasts from around the country.