When done according to the rules and regulations, recharging your car AC at home is safe and nothing should go wrong. During recharging, however—mainly due to carelessness or unsuitable tools—unpleasant situations can occasionally occur. It’s worth being prepared for them. In this guide, we summarize the risks that may arise and exactly what to do if a problem does occur.
What risks should you be aware of?
Three types of risk can occur during AC recharging:
- Frostbite or chemical burn injury: the gas or liquid suddenly expands and cools, and on contact with skin or eyes can cause frostbite or a cold burn.
- Fire and explosion hazard: some refrigerants can be flammable or are under high pressure.
- Oxygen deficiency: the release of a large amount of refrigerant in an enclosed space can displace oxygen, which may even lead to loss of consciousness.
The good news is that these situations can be almost entirely avoided by working carefully in a well-ventilated area. Still, the following advice is important in case anything does go wrong.
- What to do if the gas contacts your skin
If the recharge gas comes into direct contact with your skin, immediately remove the contaminated clothing and shoes, then thoroughly wash the affected skin area with plenty of water and soap. Because the refrigerant cools sharply as it suddenly evaporates, it can also cause a cold-burn (frostbite) injury. If redness, pain, blisters or signs of frostbite appear, see a doctor.
- What to do if the gas gets in your eyes
If the gas gets in your eyes, immediately rinse them with lukewarm, clean water for at least 15 minutes, holding the upper and lower eyelids apart. If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately. After rinsing, if there’s any sign of pain, blurred vision, a burning sensation, redness or corneal damage, seek medical attention without delay.
- What to do if you inhale the gas
If a large amount of refrigerant is released in a poorly ventilated space, breathing difficulty, dizziness, headache or loss of consciousness may occur. In such a case, move to fresh air immediately; oxygen supply and medical help are advised as needed.
- What to do if the gas gets in your mouth
Swallowing refrigerants is rare but can be serious: symptoms may include vomiting, breathing problems and loss of consciousness. If a small amount gets into the mouth, rinse with water and seek medical help immediately.
Poison Centre Notification (PCN) – why it matters
For hazardous substances, the PCN (Poison Centre Notification) is a mandatory data submission. It’s required so that in an emergency—such as poisoning—the national poison center can quickly obtain information. In Hungary, the responsible organizations are the National Institute of Pharmacy and Nutrition (OGYÉI) and the National Center for Public Health and Pharmacy (NNGYK).
Contact: CLP Helpdesk – cl**********@*******ov.hu, +36-1-476-1135.
Our company has made the required notification for its products in accordance with the law.
What do the pictograms on the canisters mean?
The products distributed by Alaska Refrigerants clearly indicate their hazards; the necessary markings and pictograms can be found on the canisters:
- GHS02 (flame): flammable (flammable gases, liquids, aerosols).
- GHS04 (gas cylinder): compressed, liquefied or dissolved gases.
- GHS07 (exclamation mark): irritant, sensitizing, moderately toxic, acute health hazard.
These icons are not decorations on the canister—they provide precise and important information so users can take the necessary precautions.
Recharging your AC at home is safe if you work in a well-ventilated area, with protective equipment, away from open flames. It’s worth reading the first-aid advice above before starting, so you know the right step to take in an emergency. With proper preparation, the risks can be minimized and the recharge will go smoothly.
This article provides general information and does not replace professional medical care. In case of injury or suspected poisoning, always contact a doctor or the poison center.
