Posted By safetybod Does anyone know if Regrigerant 12 (Dichloroflouromethane) is still allowed to be used? I know there is a CFC free, ozone friendly replacement- Refrigerant 134a - but I am unsure as to whether the former is still allowed ? Thankyou in advance

Posted By Paul Leadbetter Don't know for sure but they probably wouldn't have gone to the trouble of finding a replacement unless they had to! Paul

Posted By Lynne Ratcliffe R12 is still allowed to be used - it is in many refridgeration units , air con units etc in the world today. R12 is not allowed to be used - it cannot be put into refridgeration units, air con units being manufactured today. R12 cannot be used to 'blow' foam, however R12 blown foam is still OK to use. So the question is it OK to be used rather depends upon the usage of the word USE.

Posted By John Lewis Hi safetybod It is never as easy as it first appears. There are a host of alternative refrigerants to replace R12 and it is very confusing. Probably the best option is to use what you have got until it "dies" and then replace with a new piece of kit ready installed with a more environmentally friendly gas. I went through all this is the late 90's when my MD wanted to go green. It was an absolute nightmare because most of the gases, although broadly compatible functionally, would have eaten the seals and internal components. Also unless completely (and expensively) purged the oils all act against each other as well to make a corrosive mix. Net result? Leave well alone and just replace when the unit fails as most will before the substances become banned for use rather than just supply. Just make sure your contractor does not simply release the gas to avoid paying to have it recycled. Regards John