Regulatory Information

California Regulatory Information for Consumers

California has its own rules and regulations for manufacturing and selling “small cans” of refrigerant in the state. As a consumer, it’s important that you’re aware of these regulations and how a vehicle A/C system recharge works so that you remain compliant with the law . Under California guidelines signed into law in January 2009, any manufacturer or marketer of “small cans” of refrigerant must be certified by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to sell the product in the state. The certification requirements included compliant containers with self-sealing valves, new consumer usage instructions, and an approved used can deposit and recycling program.

As of January 1st of 2025, California passed new changes into the law. Retailers are no longer required to collect a deposit on sales of small containers of automotive refrigerant and consumers can now dispose of used refrigerant containers on their own without having to return them back to the retailer.

On this page, you will find regulatory information about:

  • A/C recharging
  • Approved A/C recharge products in California

The Basics: Helpful Hints and Tips for Recharging

A/C Recharging is Fast and Easy!

  • Check for/and repair leaks before recharging.
  • Using a gauge ensures proper fill levels.
  • Do not overcharge or undercharge the A/C system – both conditions will produce poor cooling performance. Too much refrigerant will raise system pressures and may result in compressor or other component damage.
  • Check vent temperatures while charging. Cooler air should result as you add refrigerant.

If you have added a can of refrigerant and are not getting cooler air – STOP! – and see a professional! You may have leaks requiring repairs to the system.

A/C RECHARGING GUIDE
Click here for A Do-It-Yourself Step-by-Step Guide for A/C Recharging

CARB Placard
Click here for CARB Placard 

Which products are approved for use in California?

The following products are approved for use in California:

  • CERT350CA-1
  • CE001RA11X-1CA
  • CE003RA11X-1CA
  • AF001KA16A-1CA
  • AF009KA19A-1CA
  • AF004RA11X-1CA
  • AF003RA11X-1CA
  • AF008RA11X-1CA
  • EZ004KA17A-1CA
  • EZ007KA9X-1CA
  • SZ001KA16A-1CA
  • SZ003RA11X-1CA
  • SZ001KA16A-1CA

California Regulations / Deposit and Return

Be Aware, California!

The State of California has determined that R-134a, the refrigerant used in your car’s A/C system, contributes to Global Warming.

Effective January 1, 2010, California law requires all purchasers of small containers of refrigerant marked for deposit and return to pay a $10.00 per container deposit at time of retail purchase and return all purchased, used containers for recycling within 90 days to the retailer where purchased for a $10.00 per container refund with valid proof of purchase.

It is illegal to destroy or discard used or unused small refrigerant containers under Section 95360 et seq. of the California Code of Regulations.

AT THIS TIME, THE DEPOSIT AND RETURN PROGRAM APPLIES TO SPECIALLY MARKED CONTAINERS AND ONLY IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA. Returned containers are recycled and unused refrigerant recovered.

View the consumer video on recharging and deposit:

California-Approved Products

  • AF-1CA | Arctic Freeze® R-134a Trigger Recharge Kit (CA)
  • AF-22CA | Arctic Freeze® Ultra Synthetic R-134a+ With Trigger Dispenser (CA)
  • AF-2CA | Arctic Freeze® Ultra Synthetic R-134 a + With Trigger Dispenser (CA)
  • AF-3CA | Arctic Freeze® Ultra Synthetic R-134 a + (CA)
  • 345CA | R-134a Sub-Zero® Synthetic Auto A/C Recharge (CA)
  • 343CA | R-134a With Sub-Zero® Synthetic A/C Booster (CA)
  • 347CA | R-134a With Sub-Zero® Synthetic A/C Booster (CA)
  • MAC-134CA | R-134a EZ Chill® with charging Hose and Gauge (CA)
  • MAC-134RFLCA | R-134a EZ Chill® Refill
  • SD-134CA | EZ Chill® with Oil and Leak Sealer (CA)
  • SD-134RFLCA | EZ Chill® with Oil and Leak Sealer (CA)
  • RLS-3CA | R-134a with Leak Sealer and UV Dye (CA)
  • 350CA | R-134a 1st Charge with ICE 32® (CA)
  • 340CA | R-134a High Mileage with Stop Leak (CA)
  • HMR-134CA | R-134a High Mileage (CA)
  • 301CA | R-134a Refrigerant (CA)
  • GBM-3CSCA | R-134a Trigger Dispenser Charging Hose With Gauge (CA)
  • 306CA | R-134a Quick Cool California Approved
  • 401GMCSCA | Recharge Hose With Gauge Handle (Metal) (CA)
  • 307CA | R-134a Plus Complete System Treatment (CA)
  • 334CA | R-134a with Leak Detection Dye (CA)
  • 308CA | Refrigerant with Stop Leak
  • RLS-134CA | Arctic Freeze R-134a with Stop Leak

California Regulatory Information for Retailers

Selling Small Cans of R-134a Automotive Refrigerant

California Regulations on Small Cans of R-134a Refrigerant

Retailers located in California now have special requirements necessary for the sale of R-134a refrigerant to be used in automotive A/C systems. These regulations are fully explained in the downloadable guide below.

Retailer Forms and Information

  • CARB Placard (English)
  • CARB Placard (Español)

Hazardous Materials Permits

California Supply Chain Disclosure

Global Warming and Refrigerant

Be Cool, but Be Responsible!

Did you know refrigerant R-134a is a greenhouse gas? If leaked into the atmosphere, it contributes to global warming.

You should know the mobile A/C industry is working on long-term replacements for R-134a. Until then, we join with the State of California in the following measures to ensure proper, responsible use.

    • Effective January 1, 2010, an instant $10 California deposit and return program will begin
    • Returned, used containers will be recycled to recover remaining refrigerant
    • It is illegal to destroy or discard used or unused small refrigerant containers under Section 95360 et seq. of the California Code of Regulations
    • A new, self-sealing valve on cans of R-134a will help you avoid accidental discharges
    • Better product instructions and education resources will help you do the job properly