Additionally, some countries have banned the use of R-12 altogether due to its ozone-depleting properties. Before purchasing R-12 or R-22 refrigerant, consult your local regulations to find out if any licensing requirements apply.
It is worth noting that the production and consumption of R-22 in developed countries are being phased out under the Montreal Protocol due to its high ozone depletion potential (ODP). In these regions, alternatives such as R-410A, R-32, and R-452A are usually recommended and may require certain certifications for handling and servicing equipment that use these alternative refrigerants.