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What Is Refrigerant R409?

Refrigerants are known by numbers and letters. Refrigerant R409 is a blend of pure refrigerants and is technically known as R409A. It is used in appliances that require a high-pressure refrigerant.

  1. Composition

    • R409A is a refrigerant made up of a mixture of chemicals. R409A is 60 percent chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22), 15 percent chlorodifluoroethane (HCFC-142b) and 25 percent chlorotetrafluoroethane (HCFC-124) by weight.

    Description

    • R409A is a colorless liquid with a faintly sweet odor that turns to gas at ambient (room) temperature. It is not flammable but can have adverse effects on human beings. Exposure can cause dizziness and loss of consciousness, with high levels causing depression of the nervous system and abnormal heartbeats. Suffocation may occur in unventilated spaces. Skin contact could cause frostbite and irritation.

    Uses

    • R409A is used to replace R12 refrigerant in equipment such as older style car air conditioners to comply with EPA regulations.

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