The usage of R12 instead of R134a as a replacement for Freon (chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs) in air conditioners is uncommon and generally not recommended due to several reasons. It is important to note that R12 (dichlorodifluoromethane) and R134a (tetrafluoroethane) are both types of refrigerants used in air conditioning systems, but they differ in their environmental impact, availability, and compatibility with modern equipment.
Environmental Impact: R12 is a CFC, which is known to deplete the ozone layer and contribute to global warming. As a result, the production and use of R12 have been phased out globally due to the Montreal Protocol, an international agreement aimed at protecting the ozone layer. R134a, on the other hand, is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) that has a lower impact on the ozone layer but still contributes to global warming. As environmental concerns have grown, there has been a shift towards using more environmentally friendly refrigerants.
Regulatory Restrictions: The use of R12 has been phased out and is highly regulated in many countries due to its harmful effects on the ozone layer. Its production and importation have been banned or severely restricted, which has led to a scarcity of R12 in the market. Consequently, R12 is typically much more expensive than R134a due to limited supply and higher production costs associated with the necessary environmental controls.
Equipment Compatibility: Air conditioning systems designed for R12 are not compatible with R134a without significant modifications. R134a operates at higher pressures than R12, requiring different components and lubricants to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. Retrofitting an older R12 system to work with R134a can involve replacing the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and other components, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Despite these factors, there may be isolated cases where individuals or industries continue to use R12 due to specific requirements, equipment limitations, or lack of awareness about the environmental impact. However, it is generally recommended to use approved alternatives like R134a or newer refrigerants that have a lower environmental footprint, such as hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) like R1234yf.
It's crucial to prioritize the use of environmentally friendly refrigerants to reduce the overall impact on the ozone layer and climate change.