[Gmcnet] Duracool compatibility

[Ulmer, James D - Denver, CO]

Summary:

1. It is illegal to intentionally vent ANY refrigerant into the
atmosphere
This includes R-12, R-134a, and DuraCool. For DuraCool, it is kind of a
Catch 22. There are no particular regulations about venting propane into
the atmosphere but they are ones about venting "refrigerants". Once
installed in an A/C system, DuraCool becomes a refrigerant and can not
be vented. Licensed technicians will tend to be very fussy about this
since the fines are large.

2. DuraCool is NOT approved as a SNAP (or 'drop-in') replacement for
R-12 so it can not legally be installed in an R-12 system.

3. DuraCool is an allowed replacement in an R-134a system.

To legally convert an R-12 system:

1. Evacuate the system and recover any R-12

2. Convert the system to R-134a (install R-134a fittings on the access
ports)

3. Charge the system with DuraCool according the manufacturer's
instructions.

4. Install a label indicating the type of refrigerant 

Big Jim