Who Can Legally Buy Refrigerant in the UK?

In the UK, only businesses that hold F-Gas certification can legally buy bulk fluorinated refrigerant. Suppliers must verify your certification before selling, and individuals without certification cannot purchase HFC refrigerant. This guide explains exactly who qualifies and what is required.

The legal requirement

UK F-Gas regulations restrict the sale of bulk fluorinated greenhouse gases to undertakings (businesses) that hold the relevant F-Gas certification, or that employ certified personnel. The aim is to ensure refrigerant is only handled by people trained to install, service and recover it without releasing emissions.

Who qualifies to buy refrigerant?

• F-Gas certified companies – holding company certification for refrigeration and air conditioning work.
• Businesses employing F-Gas certified engineers – the individual holds a recognised qualification (e.g. C&G 2079 / Cat I-IV).
• Equipment installers and service companies with valid certification.

For the certification routes themselves, read our F-Gas certification guide.

Who cannot buy refrigerant?

• Members of the public without certification.
• Businesses that cannot provide valid F-Gas certification details.
• Anyone seeking banned disposable cylinders (prohibited regardless of certification).

What suppliers must check

A compliant supplier will request and record your F-Gas certification details at the point of sale. This is a legal obligation, not optional. Expect to provide certificate numbers when ordering. See how this works in practice in our compliant buying guide.

Buying refrigerant in the UK

Refrigerant Gas Supplies Ltd supplies F-Gas compliant refrigerant to certified UK engineers and businesses – browse the full refrigerant gas range. You will be asked for F-Gas certification details to complete a purchase.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy refrigerant without F-Gas certification?

No. Bulk fluorinated refrigerant can only be sold to F-Gas certified businesses or those employing certified engineers. Suppliers must verify certification before selling.

Can the public buy refrigerant gas in the UK?

No. Members of the public without F-Gas certification cannot legally buy bulk HFC refrigerant.

What certification do I need to buy refrigerant?

You need valid F-Gas certification – either company certification or an individual qualification such as City & Guilds 2079 (Category I-IV) held by an employed engineer.

What will a supplier ask for?

A compliant supplier will request and record your F-Gas certification details at the point of sale as a legal requirement.