Window Air Conditioner Coolant Dangerous?
Question:We were moving a window air conditioning unit that is about 3 years old and dropped it. One of the coils was punctured and all the coolant burst out in a giant white cloud. A friend of mine is freaking out, claiming that the coolant is dangerous and we should throw away the clothes and furniture it came in contact with because it will eventually make us sick.
I've read freon was non-toxic but I have also read that most air conditioners after 1995 do not contain freon any more. So is the stuff currently used non-toxic or should we burn everything LOL. Thanks.
Answers:
If you burn it the fumes will be disputed into the air.So I dont no what to do with it sorry. But I have heard its dangerous.I have a cealing fan and try not to use the air conditioner.
The replacement coolant is not that dangerous.
I would simply "air out" everything and ventilate the area as the coolant will evaporate and dissipate into the air. (That is why it has to be under pressure in order to remain a liquid!!)
Your a/c contained R-134A. The Dupont MSDS says the only risk is frostbite unless you have pre-existing centeral nervous system or cardiovascular problems. and says to wash the clothes you were wearing. I would probably just do a general cleaning of the area.
What you saw when the A/C lost it's refrigerant was a combination of gas and oil. There is absolutely no concern in regards to getting sick.
Your clothes etc can be cleaned normally with detergents which remove oil.
The only thing dangerous in your home is your freaked out friend.
Cars have r-134a, not home units. Your system still has R-22 refrigerant in it. (Freon is a brand name). Even so, all your have to do is clean the areas affected if your worried. You'll be fine.
More Related Questions & Answers...