The present invention provides a novel lubricating composition comprising a polyoxyalkylene glycol having a cap of a fluorinated alkyl group on at least one end thereof. The composition has a molecular weight between 300 and 3,000, a viscosity of about 5 to about 150 centistokes at 37.degree. C., and a viscosity index of at least 20. The composition is miscible in combination with tetrafluoroethane in the range between -40.degree. C. and at least +20.degree. C.The novel lubricating composition is particularly useful with tetrafluoroethane in refrigeration and air-conditioning applications. As such, the present invention also provides a composition for use in refrigeration and air-conditioning comprising: (a) tetrafluoroethane; and (b) a sufficient amount to provide lubrication of at least one polyoxyalkylene glycol having a cap of fluorinated alkyl group on at least one end thereof. The lubricant has a molecular weight of about 300 to about 3,000, a viscosity of about 5 to about 150 centistokes at 37.degree. C., and a viscosity index of at least 20. The lubricant is miscible in combination with the tetrafluoroethane in the range between about -40.degree. C. and at least about +20.degree. C.