Best R134A Refrigerants of 2026
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With the changing environmental regulations and heightened concerns about global warming, the auto industry has been undergoing significant shifts in its use of refrigerants. The long-standing choice, R134a, has been the go-to refrigerant for many vehicles' air conditioning systems for decades. However, as of model year 2021, R134a is being phased out in new light-duty vehicles in the United States. This phase-out is due to the EPA's final rule under SNAP in July 2015. Despite these changes, many vehicles still run on R134a, and knowing the best options for this refrigerant remains essential.
Before diving into the best R134A refrigerants available, it's crucial to be aware of some vital information about this substance. For instance, purchasing R134a refrigerant is not open for everyone. Only technicians with specific certifications (Section 608 or Section 609) can legally buy it. Also, while R134a itself is a non-flammable material, it's essential to approach it with caution as overexposure can cause various health concerns.
While R134a remains in use, a shift towards more environmentally friendly refrigerants is apparent. R1234YF is fast becoming the preferred alternative for R134a in automotive applications. Many auto manufacturers are now adopting R1234YF due to its reduced environmental impact.
If you're considering this switch or are curious about R1234YF, we have prepared an in-depth article detailing the best R1234YF refrigerants available.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 9 R134A Refrigerants
ZeroR AC Refrigerant R134a Replacement
ZeroR AC Refrigerant is a versatile solution that works effectively with R134a systems. It’s designed for easy installation, fitting seamlessly with standard R134a can taps. Each 6oz can is lightweight yet delivers performance equivalent to 16oz of R134a, making it a practical choice for your air conditioning needs. Additionally, this refrigerant is eco-friendly, being made from 100% natural gas, unlike traditional options. It also boasts a safety rating similar to the newer R1234YF, ensuring safe handling under normal conditions. With ZeroR AC Refrigerant, you can recharge your AC system efficiently and responsibly.
ZeroR R134a Eco-Friendly AC Recharge Kit with Hose
The ZeroR AC Recharge Kit is designed for vehicles with R134a air conditioning systems, so make sure to check your owner's manual or under your hood before buying. This kit helps you recharge your AC by adding refrigerant gas combined with a small amount of UV dye, which won’t affect your vehicle’s performance but isn’t enough for professional leak detection. The refrigerant is a natural hydrocarbon blend, safe for the ozone and environmentally friendly, while still working well with R134a systems. Plus, the kit includes self-sealing cans and a 24-inch hose with a gauge, making it easy to store unused gas and monitor system pressure during recharging.
Mudder 6015 R134A Brass Refrigerant Tank Adapter to R12 Fitting Adapter
The Mudder Refrigerant Tank Adapter is a practical and convenient tool for charging and servicing air conditioning systems. It includes 2 sets of 4 pieces, consisting of 2 pieces of the 6014 vacuum pump adapter and 2 pieces of the 6015 R134A refrigerant tank adapter. These adapters are made of solid brass, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion. The tight and secure connection provided by these adapters allows for quick and easy connection and disconnection of high flow. With the Mudder Refrigerant Tank Adapter, you can adapt between R12, R22, and R134A systems, making it a versatile and essential tool for any HVAC technician or DIY enthusiast.
Errecom Extreme Ultra A/C Leak Stop
The Errecom Extreme Leak Stop is designed to quickly seal small refrigerant leaks in your vehicle’s A/C system, saving you time and hassle. You can easily check if your leak is fixable with a simple 5-minute vacuum test. Its unique polymer-free formula ensures it won’t cause damage or blockages inside your A/C system, protecting important parts like expansion valves and Schrader valves. Plus, this product is reusable with a patented refill system, so once you have it, refilling is easy and cost-effective. Trusted by professionals worldwide, it offers a reliable and safe solution to keep your A/C running smoothly.
National Refrigerants R1234yf 8 oz Can
The National R1234yf Can is designed for cars made after 2015 that use R1234yf refrigerant, making it easy to keep your vehicle's A/C system running smoothly. The 8 oz size is perfect for quick top-ups, whether you drive a car, SUV, or light truck. This refrigerant is environmentally friendly, offering a low global warming potential, so you can cool your ride while being kind to the planet. Plus, it meets SAE J2844 standards, ensuring safety and reliable performance whether you're a professional mechanic or doing the job yourself at home.
ENVIRO-SAFE R134a Refrigerant Replacement 2 Cans
The ENVIRO-SAFE R134a Refrigerant helps you restore your vehicle’s air conditioning to its original cooling power, making your drives more comfortable on hot days. This product has been trusted for nearly three decades, so you can count on its reliability. Each can provides the same cooling power as one pound of standard R134a refrigerant, giving you an efficient way to recharge your AC system. It also works at lower pressure levels, which can improve your AC’s performance and help it run more efficiently, saving you energy and reducing wear.
Generic R134A Industrial Replacement Freon 12oz 6-Pack
The Generic R134A Freon 6-Pack helps you bring your air conditioning system back to its original cooling strength, making your space comfortably cold again. It is a trusted product with over 27 years of use, so you can rely on its quality. This refrigerant works at a lower pressure, which means your AC runs more efficiently and may save energy. Plus, it offers better cooling performance than standard options, so your AC cools more effectively. Using this product means you get a reliable and efficient way to recharge your AC and enjoy cool air.
REAXOAL 3 PCS Filter Drier with Charging Valve 25GR 1/4 X 1/4
The REAXOAL Filter Drier Set is made from high-quality materials, ensuring it lasts long and keeps your refrigeration system running smoothly. It helps remove moisture and impurities, which protects your system from damage and keeps it clean. This filter also prevents acid buildup, which can harm your equipment over time. Plus, it's designed for easy installation and operation, so you can set it up and maintain it without hassle. Overall, this set offers durable, reliable protection for your refrigeration system while being user-friendly.
ZeroR R290 Refrigerant 8 oz Cans 3 Pack
The ZeroR R290 Refrigerant Pack is designed specifically for refrigeration systems that require R290, making it ideal for retail food refrigerators and freezers that use this type of refrigerant. If your system calls for R290, this product offers a reliable substitute to keep your unit running efficiently. Made proudly in the USA, you can trust the quality and manufacturing standards behind this refrigerant. Additionally, it is EPA approved under regulation 40 CFR Part 82.17, ensuring it meets important environmental and safety standards. The cans also feature R134a threaded connections, which can make installation easier for users familiar with this type of fitting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is refrigerant R134a being phased out?
Yes, R134a refrigerant is being phased out in new light-duty vehicles manufactured or sold in the United States as of model year 2021. This is due to regulations implemented by the EPA.
2. Can you still buy R134a refrigerant?
Yes, you can still purchase R134a refrigerant for automotive applications. However, you will need to provide your 608 or 609 certification to buy this product.
3. What refrigerant is replacing R134a?
R513A refrigerant is a suitable replacement for R134a. It has a significantly lower global warming potential (GWP) and is considered an excellent alternative to R134a.
4. Are all R134a refrigerants the same?
Yes, all R134a refrigerants are the same. The only difference may be the connector type, with regular R-134A having a 1/4" flare connector and the Auto (Mobile Air Conditioning) cylinder having an SAE connector.
5. What is the new refrigerant law for 2023?
The new refrigerant law for 2023 requires AC manufacturers to use 10% reclaimed refrigerant annually, and VRF manufacturers to use 15% reclaimed refrigerant annually. These percentages will increase in subsequent years.
6. Why can't I buy R134A?
The sales restriction on R134A refrigerant is established by EPA regulations. Only EPA-certified technicians are allowed to purchase refrigerants like R134A, which are used as substitutes for ozone-depleting substances.
7. Can you convert R-134a to R-1234yf?
No, it is illegal to convert an R-134a system to R-1234yf. The industry has not performed tests or published information regarding the compatibility and performance of such conversions.
8. What happens if you mix 134a with 1234yf?
Mixing R-134a with R-1234yf can alter refrigerant pressure and potentially cause evaporator freeze-up on pressure control systems, leading to reduced system airflow.
9. Can you mix different brands of R134a?
No, it is not recommended to mix different brands of R134a refrigerants. Mixing different automotive refrigerants can have negative effects on the environment and may cause damage to your car's A/C system.
During our r134a refrigerant research, we found 24 r134a refrigerant products and shortlisted 9 quality products. We collected and analyzed 19,840 customer reviews through our big data system to write the r134a refrigerants list. We found that most customers choose r134a refrigerants with an average price of $45.31.
The r134a refrigerants are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of r134a refrigerants, including ZeroR, Mudder, ERRECOM, National Refrigerants, ENVIRO-SAFE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 543 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
David Davis has rich experience as a mechanic and a general repairman in the automotive industry. It has given him plenty of knowledge in automobile repair, auto parts, and all kinds of tools. In his spare time, he enjoys assembling and disassembling parts for cars.