Discover why we’ve moved from the existing system to an innovative self-sealing valve system.

In this article, we’ll explain:

  • Why self-sealing valves are safer for the environment.
  • Which AC leak sealer products you need to buy a DVA-1 self-sealing valve for.
  • The differences between the 2018 gauge and pre-2018 gauge.

Read on to find out more about our self-sealing valves and why they are a better choice for both you and the environment.

An industry-wide transition

Transition background

From January 1, 2018, EPA regulations required that products containing R-134a refrigerant must come in cans with self-sealing valves. To meet these requirements, A/C Pro updated its entire refrigerant product lineup.

An innovative solution

Many old refrigerant can designs used a piercing valve system. When they were activated by a gauge or can tap attached to them, they remained active until all the refrigerant they contained had been used. If the user of the product removed the gauge or can tap before all the refrigerant was used, R-134a would leak into the atmosphere. Self-sealing systems prevent this potential leakage.

Gauges

Look for our DVA-1 Adapter icons on products that do not contain a gauge.

See below for more information about when you’ll need the DVA-1:

Do I need to buy a DVA-1 self-sealing valve if I have a:

Kit (can and gauge bundle)

DO NOT BUY A DVA-1

Refill with piercing valve and piercing gauge

DO NOT BUY A DVA-1

Refill with piercing valve and self-sealing gauge

DO NOT BUY A DVA-1

Refill with self-sealing valve and self-sealing gauge

DO NOT BUY A DVA-1

Refill with self-sealing valve and piercing gauge

BUY A DVA-1 WHEN USING A PIERCING GAUGE WITH THESE CANS OF R-134A

ACP-101V (ACP101-S6)

ACP-102V (ACP102-6)

ACP-102CA (ACP102CA-6)

ACP-105V (ACP105-6)

ACP-105CA (ACP105CA-6)

ACP-307V (ACP307-1)

ACP-307CA (ACP307CA-1)

MRL-3V (ACP400-6)

Your previous generation gauge will still work

The DVA-1 adapter will let you use your piercing-style gauge with the new self-sealing valve cans. Just attach the DVA-1 to the self-sealing valve, then attach your gauge to the DVA-1.

Our new gauge works with both

If you have refrigerant refill cans, the A/C Pro universal gauge will work with previous generation cans as well as the newer self-sealing type.

Existing System

New Self-Sealing System

A big difference

The Pre-2018 piercing gauge:

  • Works with piercing valve cans
  • Automatically permanently unseals the can as it's being attached
  • Requires an adapter to work with 2018 self-sealing valve cans

The 2018 universal gauge:

  • Works with both piercing and self-sealing valve cans
  • Accesses the can contents only when trigger is depressed
  • Never requires an adapter