Actually, nothing is exactly “the same” as R-12; however, the EPA has designated some alternative replacements as "acceptable" under the SNAP program.
Choosing & Using Alternative Refrigerants for MVACs | Ozone Depletion Alternatives/SNAP | US EPA
Your local Pep Boys should sell Freeze 12, however you still need an EPA 609 MVAC license to purchase it.. For example, using a motor vehicle A/C refrigerant accepted under SNAP as a CFC-12 substitute requires, among other things, the use of a new label and new fittings unique to the alternative, and the CFC-12 must first be removed from the system. Note that there is no do-it-yourself (DIY) exemption from SNAP requirements. Both service technicians and DIYers who use alternatives found unacceptable under SNAP or ignore use conditions, have violated the Clean Air Act. Do not allow anyone to use the EPA “banned” replacement refrigerants listed in the above link, especially those with propane or butane blends!
