Small Containers of Automotive Refrigerant - What you need to know

Amended Regulation for Small Containers of Automotive Refrigerant - Use and Sale
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Air Pollution, Climate Change
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Small Containers of Automotive Refrigerant
To reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from do-it-yourself automobile A/C re-charging, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted a regulation to reduce refrigerant emissions from the do-it-yourself servicing of motor vehicle air conditioners (MVAC) such as those in cars and pickup trucks. This regulation became law in the State of California on January 1, 2010, and amended on April 13, 2017, and on July 1, 2024, respectively.

The purpose of the regulation is to reduce GHG emissions. The current automotive refrigerant (R-134a) is a highly potent GHG and its global warming potential (GWP) in a single 12-ounce container is equivalent to the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from 150 gallons of gasoline. The regulation helps prevent unnecessary releases of refrigerant into the atmosphere and applies to automotive refrigerants with a GWP value greater than 150. It applies to containers holding more than two ounces and less than two pounds of refrigerant by weight.

What does the regulation require?

The regulation has four requirements:

  • Use of a self-sealing valve on all containers.
  • Phase-in of reclaimed refrigerant requirements for manufacturers starting January 1, 2025. Manufacturers must use certified reclaimed refrigerant in small containers of automotive refrigerant. [Section 95366.2 and 95369f]
  • Collection of $10 deposit per container from consumers and a recycling program for used containers. (Ending in January 1, 2025) [Section 95366.1]
  • Procedures and parameters for spending unclaimed deposits. Unclaimed deposits must be spent on specified activities or a combination of activities repairing MVAC systems and recovery/reclamation of refrigerants or foams with GWP valuer greater than 150. [Section 95367.2]

In order to certify products for sale in California, manufacturers must submit an application to CARB including information that shows their products meet these requirements.

Who must comply with the regulation?

This regulation affects retailers who sell the product, and companies that package, distribute, or market the small cans of refrigerant, and the consumers who recharge MVAC systems using this product.

When does the regulation take effect?

The regulation took effect January 1, 2010, was amended on April 13, 2017, and on July 1, 2024, respectively. The current amendments became effective on July 1, 2024.

What are the consequences of not complying?

Penalties may be assessed for any violation of this regulation pursuant to Health and Safety Code section 38580. Each day during any portion of which a violation occurs is a separate offense. Additionally, any violation of this subarticle may be enjoined pursuant to Health and Safety Code section 41513. Lastly, the Executive Officer may revoke any Executive Order issued pursuant to this subarticle for a violation of this subarticle.

Where can I find more information about the regulation?

For any further information, contact Van Tsan at (279) 842-9951. For urgent matters, please contact Dongmin Luo at (916) 277-0834. To obtain this document in an alternative format or language, please contact the CARB’s Helpline at (800) 242-4450 or at helpline@arb.ca.gov. TTY/TDD/ Speech to Speech users may dial 711 for the California Relay Service.