A/C Service Precautions
REFRIGERANT (R12) HANDLING WARNINGS- Always wear eye protection.
- Do not let refrigerant get on your skin or in your eyes; if it does:
- Do not rub your eyes or skin.
- Splash large quantities of cool water in your eyes or on your skin.
- Rush to a physician or hospital for immediate treatment. Do not attempt to treat it yourself.
- Keep refrigerant containers of (R-12) stored below 104°F (40°C).
- Do not handle or discharge refrigerant in an enclosed area near an open flame; it may ignite and produce a poisonous gas.
ENVIRONMENTAL PRECAUTIONS
- The ozone is a fragile layer surrounding the earth which acts as a shield against the sun's ultra-violet radiation. Chlorine from chemicals called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) destroy the ozone in the stratosphere. Automotive air conditioning systems currently use chlorofluorocarbons as the refrigerant.
- Auto air conditioning service equipment has been developed to minimize the release CFCs to the atmosphere. All service procedures should be performed using this equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions.
SERVICE TIPS AND PRECAUTIONS
1. Always disconnect the negative cable from the battery whenever replacing air conditioning parts.
2. Keep moisture and dirt out of the system. When disconnecting any lines, plug or cap the fittings immediately; don't remove the caps or plugs until just before you reconnect each line.
3. Before connecting any hose or line, apply a few drops of refrigerant oil to the 0-ring.
4. When tightening or loosening a fitting, use a second wrench to support the matching fitting.
5. When discharging the system, use a Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling System; don't release refrigerant into the atmosphere.
6. Add refrigerant oil after replacing the following parts; (see specifications for quantity)
- Condenser
- Evaporator
- Line or hose
- Receiver/Dryer
- Compressor