R134a replaced R12 in the 1990s because it does not harm the ozone layer. It boils at about −26 °C at atmospheric pressure, which makes it a good fit for medium-temperature applications such as reach-in chillers, visi coolers and beverage coolers. It is non-flammable (A1), which made servicing simple and familiar for a generation of technicians.
Its drawback is climate impact. With a GWP of roughly 1,430, a leak of a few hundred grams has a sizeable warming effect. As HFCs are phased down under the Kigali Amendment, new commercial cabinets are moving to hydrocarbons such as R290 and R600a, or to HFO blends, and R134a is gradually becoming a legacy refrigerant.
Many existing units in Indian shops and kitchens still run on R134a, and it remains widely available for service today. It is not a drop-in swap with hydrocarbons: converting a unit means a compatible compressor, safe electrics and a new charge calculation, so it is rarely worthwhile on small cabinets.