Where to get R134a?
Discussion
(Disclaimer - I understand the rules and legalities around draining, filling, supplying AC refrigerants and intend to act responsibly)
I need to repair and re-fill a couple of AC systems on two of my cars and have acquired the gear to do so - all I need is the gas, which from my initial search looks to be the only thing more expensive than printer ink.
Between the two cars which are both currently completely empty, they will take a total of about 2kg of R134a, so the little 150g top ups won't cut it. I also appreciate the 10-12kg cylinders require a F certificate to purchase, which is understandable.
Anyone know of the best place to get some R134a other than this type of thing which is £59 for just over 500g... https://www.halfords.com/motoring/engine-oils-and-...
It states it's good for about 2-3 cars, but that is not a full refill, that is an assumed minor top up, so I'd need 4 of those at £240 which just seems like madness.
Or is that it?
Any suggestions.
Taking either car to an A/C place for filling is not an available option.
I need to repair and re-fill a couple of AC systems on two of my cars and have acquired the gear to do so - all I need is the gas, which from my initial search looks to be the only thing more expensive than printer ink.
Between the two cars which are both currently completely empty, they will take a total of about 2kg of R134a, so the little 150g top ups won't cut it. I also appreciate the 10-12kg cylinders require a F certificate to purchase, which is understandable.
Anyone know of the best place to get some R134a other than this type of thing which is £59 for just over 500g... https://www.halfords.com/motoring/engine-oils-and-...
It states it's good for about 2-3 cars, but that is not a full refill, that is an assumed minor top up, so I'd need 4 of those at £240 which just seems like madness.
Or is that it?
Any suggestions.
Taking either car to an A/C place for filling is not an available option.
You might find it difficult.
BOC sell it, but apparently it is a 'restricted product'
"Some gas products are subject to restrictions due to potentially hazardous properties and require further verification checks before we can commence supply. Once these have been conducted your delivery address will be released to accept these products.
Products subject to restrictions will be highlighted in the catalogue, also during checkout your delivery address will be validated and you will be informed of any restrictions that may apply.
To discuss these restrictions contact customer services on 0800 111 333 or use the enquiry form."
Appears you need to hold various bits of paper before you can buy it.
www.gov.uk/government/publications/using-r134a-air...
There's a couple of bigger cylinders on ebay, but no mention of whether they will sell to anybody or whether you would need the bits of paper.
BOC sell it, but apparently it is a 'restricted product'
"Some gas products are subject to restrictions due to potentially hazardous properties and require further verification checks before we can commence supply. Once these have been conducted your delivery address will be released to accept these products.
Products subject to restrictions will be highlighted in the catalogue, also during checkout your delivery address will be validated and you will be informed of any restrictions that may apply.
To discuss these restrictions contact customer services on 0800 111 333 or use the enquiry form."
Appears you need to hold various bits of paper before you can buy it.
www.gov.uk/government/publications/using-r134a-air...
There's a couple of bigger cylinders on ebay, but no mention of whether they will sell to anybody or whether you would need the bits of paper.
Edited by paintman on Wednesday 5th January 15:46
You need to go and get a Fgas certification to buy and handle refrigerant gasses such as r134a all through there's small cans for topping up that bypass this needs for some reason
No supplier should legally sell you Large quantities without certification
And are you sure you need 2kg for two cars?
What the hell are they most card are around the 400g- 700g mark
No supplier should legally sell you Large quantities without certification
And are you sure you need 2kg for two cars?
What the hell are they most card are around the 400g- 700g mark
I don't trust my cars with people, especially not my Corvette.
I've had too many bad experiences with people not treating my car with the care and attention I desire. Scuffing feet over sills and against door cards, leaning over body panels with dirty greasy overalls covered in swarf, causing scratches, leaving finger prints everywhere, slamming doors, pressing down on bonnets leaving small finger print dents etc, etc, etc.
One is a restored show car I chase specs of dust around with an anti-static mop and the other one I want to do myself, given I've already purchased all the DIY gear, gauges, manifolds, vacuum pump etc - I just need the gas.
I try and avoid using external vendors and services as much as possible - many times bitten, shy forever.
I've had too many bad experiences with people not treating my car with the care and attention I desire. Scuffing feet over sills and against door cards, leaning over body panels with dirty greasy overalls covered in swarf, causing scratches, leaving finger prints everywhere, slamming doors, pressing down on bonnets leaving small finger print dents etc, etc, etc.
One is a restored show car I chase specs of dust around with an anti-static mop and the other one I want to do myself, given I've already purchased all the DIY gear, gauges, manifolds, vacuum pump etc - I just need the gas.
I try and avoid using external vendors and services as much as possible - many times bitten, shy forever.
Edited by 25th QV on Thursday 6th January 18:13
a main car dealer's parts department might have plenty of AC gas in bottles for you to buy. It is unlikely they will consider the legalities of doing so although they will probably ask you to bring the bottle back.
Make sure it's a large privately run operation, a PLC might be more savvy, a small dealer might not have the gas.
Make sure it's a large privately run operation, a PLC might be more savvy, a small dealer might not have the gas.
Dynion Araf Uchaf said:
a main car dealer's parts department might have plenty of AC gas in bottles for you to buy. It is unlikely they will consider the legalities of doing so although they will probably ask you to bring the bottle back.
Make sure it's a large privately run operation, a PLC might be more savvy, a small dealer might not have the gas.
You're likely to have more luck with a garage that you use regularly than just going into one that doesn't know you from Adam.Make sure it's a large privately run operation, a PLC might be more savvy, a small dealer might not have the gas.
Or if you really don't want anyone else touching your cars even if you are standing with them then do the appropriate course & get the certificates.
Quick look at BOC's prices says this is expensive stuff in the garage use sizes, their smallest size is 12kg priced at £416.18 plus VAT so as near as dammit £500. Plus you need an account with them & there is a monthly bottle rental charge.
ETA You'll also need an empty container to draw what's in the system out & store in.
Don't forget you'll also need the correct type & quantity of oil to put into the system.
Edited by paintman on Friday 7th January 13:46
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