Fridges: freon and replacement gas

[roam]

We don’t know if our fridge is gassed with Freon or a replacement. I suspect its Freon. Is it possible to test the gas? If yes, how?

If it is Freon, can the system be de-gassed to remove the Freon so we can re-gas using r134a with a new compressor? Or is that just too simplistic?

thanks

 

[steve28]

if you are using a system that has r12 then you will need to replace the lot, i have heard of cases where r40 is used instaed and topped up with the r12.
i suggest you speak to penguin marine
http://www.penguinfrigo.co.uk/categories/Marine_and_Vehicle_Refrigeration-45-1.html

they are the experts in the field and are normaly happy to advise

 

[philip_stevens]

There is a good thread here from the USA

with a few other links.

It sounds as though you can re-gas with R134a (after system evacuation - vacuum pump) but it will be slightly less efficient.

I know from my MN days, that there is a different expansion valve for R134a compared to R12 and R20.

If I could find my Refrigerant Gas book I could find the details.

 

[philip_stevens]

More info on gas temps and pressures here

and general info here

"R-134a operates at significantly higher pressures than R-12"
"the existing mineral oil requires lubricant replacement for R-134a"

Hope all this helps.