Best R134A Refrigerants of 2026

David Davis Avatar
David Davis
Last Updated: Jan 11, 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

ZeroR AC Refrigerant R134a Replacement Cover #TOP 1
ZeroR AC Refrigerant R134a Replacement
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ZeroR R134a Eco-Friendly AC Recharge Kit with Hose Cover #TOP 2
ZeroR R134a Eco-Friendly AC Recharge Kit with Hose
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Mudder 6015 R134A Brass Refrigerant Tank Adapter to R12 Fitting Adapter Cover #TOP 3
Mudder 6015 R134A Brass Refrigerant Tank Adapter to R12 Fitting Adapter
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 9 R134A Refrigerants

#TOP 1

ZeroR AC Refrigerant R134a Replacement

3-Z1343
White
3 Cans
ZeroR AC Refrigerant R134a Replacement Cover
ZeroR AC Refrigerant R134a Replacement - Eco-Friendly, 100% Natural Hydrocarbon Gas - Compatible and Easy to Install with R134a A/C Recharge Systems - 3 Cans (6oz Each)

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.

What We Like
Affordable price
Good product quality
Works effectively in AC systems
Easy to use
Resealable cans
#TOP 2

ZeroR R134a Eco-Friendly AC Recharge Kit with Hose

2-Z134K-A
black
2 Cans
ZeroR R134a Eco-Friendly AC Recharge Kit with Hose Cover
ZeroR AC Recharge Kit R134a Replacement – Eco-Friendly Refrigerant Gas with 24-Inch Charging Hose Tool for SSV Cans, 2-Pack

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.

What We Like
Excellent cooling performance
Affordable two-pack price
Accurate, included gauge
Compatible with multiple vehicles
Easy AC system recharge
#TOP 3

Mudder 6015 R134A Brass Refrigerant Tank Adapter to R12 Fitting Adapter

Mudder-Refrigerant Tank Adapter-01
Brass
2 Sets
Mudder 6015 R134A Brass Refrigerant Tank Adapter to R12 Fitting Adapter Cover
Mudder 4 Pcs 6015 R134A Brass Refrigerant Tank Adapter to R12 Fitting 1/2 Female to 1/4 Male Flare Valve Core and 6014 Vacuum Pump Adapter 1/4 Inch Flare Female to 1/2 Inch Male

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.

What We Like
Perfect fit for AC vacuum pump
High quality brass construction
No leaks, accurate threads
Compatible with R134a gauges
Affordable price
#TOP 4

Errecom Extreme Ultra A/C Leak Stop

TR1163
Errecom Extreme Ultra A/C Leak Stop Cover
Errecom Extreme Ultra | A/C Leak Stop for Vehicle A/C Systems | Works with All Refrigerants and Lubricants | Includes R1234yf and R134a Adapters | 0.2 fl oz (6 mL) Cartridge

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.

What We Like
Effective leak sealing
Polymer-free, non-damaging formula
Reusable and refillable system
Trusted OEM-approved quality
#TOP 5

National Refrigerants R1234yf 8 oz Can

National Refrigerants R1234yf 8 oz Can Cover
National Refrigerants R1234yf 8 oz Can Automotive A/C Recharge

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.

What We Like
OEM compatibility
Compact 8 oz size
Low global warming potential
Meets SAE J2844 standards
#TOP 6

ENVIRO-SAFE R134a Refrigerant Replacement 2 Cans

ESREF2
ENVIRO-SAFE R134a Refrigerant Replacement 2 Cans Cover
ENVIRO-SAFE R134a Refrigerant Replacement | 2 Cans (6oz) with Piercing Valve for AC Recharging

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.

What We Like
Restores original cooling power
Long-established trusted product
Equivalent to 1lb R134a per can
Lower operating pressure
#TOP 7

Generic R134A Industrial Replacement Freon 12oz 6-Pack

Generic
6315X6
Generic R134A Industrial Replacement Freon 12oz 6-Pack Cover
R134A Industrial Replacement Freon | 12 oz Cans with SELF Seal Valve. AC Recharging (6 Cans) Made in The USA! Coolest Product Out! Guaranteed Satisfaction. 12 oz cans Qty 6

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.

What We Like
Restores original cooling
Proven product history
Lower operating pressure
Enhanced cooling performance
#TOP 8

REAXOAL 3 PCS Filter Drier with Charging Valve 25GR 1/4 X 1/4

AXO106
3PCS
REAXOAL 3 PCS Filter Drier with Charging Valve 25GR 1/4 X 1/4 Cover
REAXOAL 3 PCS Filter Drier Refrigerant Liquid Line 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.

What We Like
Durable material
Moisture adsorption
Impurity filtration
Acid buildup prevention
Easy installation
#TOP 9

ZeroR R290 Refrigerant 8 oz Cans 3 Pack

R290
ZeroR R290 Refrigerant 8 oz Cans 3 Pack Cover
ZeroR - R290-8 oz Cans, 3 Pack - for Systems Designed for R290 - Made in USA

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.

What We Like
Designed for R290 systems
Made in the USA
EPA approved refrigerant
R134a threaded connections
Buying Guide Image

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.

Editor's Notes

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.

Written by
David Davis Avatar

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.