BMW X5: Instructions For Handling Refrigerant R 134A

WARNING: Although R 134a at normal temperature is non-toxic, non-flammable and not explosive in air in any mixture ratio, it is still essential to follow various safety precautions.

The filled refrigerant circuit of the A/C system is subject to gauge pressure. When carrying out repairs on the A/C system, it is absolutely essential to draw off the refrigerant.

Do not weld or solder on filled A/C systems or in rooms into which R 134a may have leaked. Exposure to flames or high temperatures (< or = 50 ºC) may give rise to toxic decomposition products (fluorine gas). For this reason, do not smoke either.

R 134a must be drawn off, cleaned and returned to the A/C system with a service station following the relevant operating instructions.

Avoid all contact with liquid or gaseous R 134a. Wear protective goggles and gloves when working on the refrigerant circuit. R 134a acting on the skin can cause frostbite. Rinse affected body parts thoroughly with cold water. If R 134a gets into your eyes, likewise rinse with plenty of water and, if necessary, remove contact lenses if worn. Then seek immediate medical attention. Likewise seek immediate medical attention if you experience problems after inhaling R 134a fumes.

As a gas, R 134a is colorless, odorless and heavier than air. If it gets into the atmosphere, this may result especially in workshop pits in an imperceptible danger of asphyxiation or in cardiac palpitations. Ventilate rooms adequately; if necessary, turn on installed extractor systems.

For a properly functioning A/C system, it is essential to have the greatest possible levels of cleanliness when working on the A/C system and the best possible evacuation (at least 30 minutes dehumidification from refrigerant circuit) before each filling of the A/C system.

R 134a absorbs moisture very easily. Therefore seal off opened pipes, condenser, evaporator, compressor and drier bottle immediately with plugs.

With replacement parts, the plugs may only be removed immediately before the lines are connected.

In the event of warranty claims, the old parts must be provided with plugs to be able to determine the cause of the damage.

If an A/C system has been completely drained by leakage, accident or repair, the drier element must be replaced as excessive moisture may have entered the system. See.

Store filled pressurized refrigerant bottles in such a way that they are not exposed to direct sunlight or other heat sources (max. 45 ºC). Also avoid exposing them to mechanical stress (e.g. by dropping).

In the event of fire, carbon dioxide (CO2), extinguishant powder and a sprayed water jet are deemed to be suitable extinguishants. Cool reservoirs at risk with a sprayed water jet (risk of bursting!).

IMPORTANT: After each refill of an A/C system, check that protective caps of filling valves are hand-tight. They serve as additional seals.

Instructions For Handling Refrigerant Oil (For Refrigerant R 134A)

WARNING: Observe the following points when handling refrigerant oil:

• Wear protective goggles.
• Wear gloves made from impermeable plastic.
• Do not swallow.
• Do not inhale.

Action to be taken after contact with refrigerant oil:

• After contact with eyes, rinse thoroughly with plenty of water and take out contact lenses (if worn). Then seek immediate medical attention.
• After contact with the skin, wash body parts affected with plenty of soap and water.
• Do not induce vomiting if oil is swallowed, seek immediate medical attention.
• If inhaled, introduce the person affected to fresh air. Seek medical attention if problems persist.

WARNING: Refrigerant oil is non-combustible and non-explosive at normal temperatures. In spite of this, the following precautions must be observed:

• Do not store in the vicinity of flames, heat sources or strongly oxidizing materials.
• Suitable extinguishants: carbon dioxide (CO2 ), dry extinguishant, foam.

IMPORTANT: Refrigerant oil is hygroscopic and must therefore be stored in suitable containers that are sealed airtight

Recycling:

Dispose of drawn-off refrigerant oil as hazardous waste.

Observe country-specific waste-disposal regulations.

Absorb escaping refrigerant oil with fluid-binding material.

Notify the relevant authorities if larger amounts of refrigerant oil are discharged into above-ground water supplies, drainage systems or subsoil.

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