Refrigerant FAQ & Buyer's Guide

Whether you're an HVAC technician ordering for a job or a business stocking refrigerant, this guide answers the questions we hear most. Jump to the section that matters to you.

Refrigerant Compatibility & Selection

What refrigerant does my system use?

Check the nameplate on your outdoor condensing unit or air handler — it lists the approved refrigerant type. If the label is missing, consult your equipment manufacturer's documentation. Never mix refrigerants or use an unapproved substitute; doing so can damage compressors and void warranties.

What is replacing R-410A, and when?

The U.S. EPA is phasing down high-GWP refrigerants under the AIM Act. R-410A (GWP ~2,088) production and import limits are being reduced starting in 2025, and new residential equipment must transition to lower-GWP alternatives. The two primary  replacements are:

  • R-454B (Puron Advance / EcoFluor R454B) — GWP ~466; adopted by most major residential equipment OEMs as the primary R-410A successor. Mildly flammable (A2L).
  • R-32 — GWP ~675; widely used in mini-split systems globally; mildly flammable (A2L).

Important: R-454B and R-32 are not drop-in replacements for existing R-410A equipment. They are designed for new systems engineered for those refrigerants. Using them in older R-410A equipment is not approved.

Can I use R-454B in my existing R-410A system?

No. R-454B operates at different pressures and uses different oil formulations than R-410A. It is approved only for newly manufactured equipment designed specifically for R-454B. Continue using R-410A for existing R-410A equipment until the system is replaced.

What about R-134A for automotive and commercial refrigeration?

R-134A remains widely used in automotive A/C (pre-2021 vehicles), medium-temperature commercial refrigeration, and certain chillers. It is not approved for residential HVAC systems.

What is R-404A used for?

R-404A is a common refrigerant for low- and medium-temperature commercial refrigeration — walk-in coolers, display cases, and transport refrigeration. It is being phased down due to its high GWP (~3,922).

Where can I see all refrigerants you carry?

Browse our full inventory in the All Refrigerants collection.

EPA Certification & Purchasing Rules

Do I need EPA Section 608 certification to buy refrigerant?

For refrigerants sold in containers larger than 2 lbs, federal law (EPA Section 608) requires that purchasers hold a valid EPA 608 technician certification. This applies to HFCs such as R-410A, R-32, R-404A, R-134A, and HFO blends. We are required to verify certification before fulfilling orders for these container sizes. By placing an order, you confirm that you hold the required certification.

What about small containers (2 lbs or under)?

Small cans of 2 lbs or less (such as automotive R-134A top-off cans with a self-sealing valve) are exempt from the EPA 608 purchase certification requirement and may be purchased by the general public. Check individual product listings for container size details.

What types of EPA 608 certification are there?

EPA 608 certifications are issued by an EPA-approved testing organization and come in four types:

  • Type I — Small appliances (under 5 lbs of refrigerant)
  • Type II — High-pressure systems (R-410A, R-22, R-134A, etc.)
  • Type III — Low-pressure systems (R-11, R-113, etc.)
  • Universal — Covers all three types above

For most HVAC work involving R-410A, R-454B, or R-32 equipment, a Type II or Universal certification is required.

How do I verify or obtain EPA 608 certification?

Certification is administered by EPA-approved organizations such as ESCO Group, ICE (Industry Competency Exam), and others. You can find a testing provider at epa.gov/section608. Certification does not expire once earned.

Are there purchasing restrictions for R-1234YF?

R-1234YF is used in post-2021 automotive A/C systems. Purchasing regulations differ by state and application. Check your state regulations and the individual product listing for details.

Shipping & Handling

How is refrigerant shipped?

Refrigerants are classified as hazardous materials (Hazmat) and are shipped via FedEx/UPS Hazmat Ground or Hazmat Freight (10 cylinders or more) in compliance with DOT regulations. All shipments of 10 lb or over require a signature upon delivery — please ensure someone is available at the delivery address to receive the package.

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes — we offer free Hazmat Ground shipping to the contiguous 48 states (lower 48). Sorry, we do not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories.

Can you ship refrigerant by air (USPS, UPS Air, FedEx Air)?

No. Compressed refrigerant cylinders are prohibited from air transport under DOT and IATA regulations. All orders ship via ground freight only.

How long does shipping take?

Most in-stock orders ship within 1 business day. Transit time via ground is typically 1–5 business days depending on your location. Please see the map below for estimated shipping times to your destination. You will receive a tracking number by email once your order ships.

What if my cylinder arrives damaged?

Inspect your delivery before signing. If you notice visible damage to the cylinder or packaging, note it on the delivery receipt and contact us immediately. Do not attempt to use a damaged cylinder.

Do you ship to Canada or internationally?

At this time we ship within the contiguous United States only. We do not ship internationally or to Alaska, Hawaii, or U.S. territories.

Storage & Safety

How should I store refrigerant cylinders?

  • Store upright in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, open flames, and direct sunlight.
  • Keep storage temperatures below 125°F (52°C).
  • Store away from incompatible materials (strong oxidizers, strong bases).
  • Keep valve caps secured when the cylinder is not in use.
  • Follow all Safety Data Sheet (SDS) guidelines for the specific refrigerant.

Are A2L refrigerants (R-454B, R-32) dangerous?

A2L refrigerants are classified as "mildly flammable" — they have a lower flammability risk than propane or other A3 refrigerants but are not completely non-flammable like R-410A. When handled according to manufacturer guidelines and used only in equipment designed for A2L refrigerants, the risk is minimal. Always follow SDS guidelines and ensure adequate ventilation when working with these refrigerants.

Where can I find Safety Data Sheets (SDS)?

SDS documents are available from the refrigerant manufacturer (e.g., Chemours, Honeywell, Arkema). Links to SDS documents are included in product listings where available, or you can request them by contacting us.

What should I do in case of a refrigerant leak?

Evacuate the area, ventilate thoroughly, and avoid breathing vapors. For large leaks or if anyone experiences symptoms of exposure (dizziness, difficulty breathing), call emergency services. Refrigerant vapors displace oxygen and can cause asphyxiation in confined spaces. Refer to the product's SDS for full emergency procedures.

Returns & Satisfaction

What is your return policy?

Due to the hazardous nature of refrigerants and DOT regulations, we are unable to accept returns of opened or partially used cylinders. Unopened cylinders in original condition may be eligible for return within 30 days of delivery — please contact us before shipping anything back to receive a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA).

What if I ordered the wrong refrigerant?

Contact us as soon as possible. If your order has not yet shipped, we can cancel or modify it. If already shipped, return eligibility depends on whether the cylinder is unopened and in original condition. We are happy to help you identify the correct refrigerant for your equipment — just reach out via our contact page.

My order is missing an item or arrived incorrect — what do I do?

We stand behind every order. If there is a discrepancy between what you ordered and what arrived, contact us within 5 business days of delivery and we will make it right. Please have your order number ready.

Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee?

Yes. We are committed to providing quality refrigerants at competitive prices with reliable Hazmat shipping. If you have any issue with your order, contact our team and we will work with you to resolve it promptly.

Still have questions? Contact our team — we're here to help you find the right refrigerant and get it to you fast.

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