Are you ready for the transition to A2L refrigerants?
In case you haven’t heard, the industry is transitioning to mildly flammable A2L refrigerants, because of traditional refrigerant’s global warming potential (GWP). In this guide, we’ll explain what refrigerants are, the history of refrigerants, and the transition to A2L refrigerants and their impact on HVAC equipment.
What Are Refrigerants?
A refrigerant is a fluid that cycles through the lines of your HVAC system, changing from a liquid to gas to liquid again as it absorbs heat and releases it along its journey, bringing cooler air to your spaces.
History of Refrigerants
The first refrigerants, used in the early 1800’s until about 1930, were flammable, toxic or both. They included hazardous ingredients such as ammonia, sulfur dioxide, methyl chloride or propane, and resulted in many fires, poisonings and even fatalities.
In 1928, R-12, a non-flammable, non-toxic refrigerant was created. This became the industry standard and was used for many years. In the 1950’s, R-12 was replaced with R-22 as it didn’t wear out compressors as much nor require as large of pipes. However, by the early 1970’s, it was discovered that these types of refrigerants, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), were causing a breakdown in the ozone layer.
In 1989, the Montreal Protocol went into effect, which called for a drastic global phasedown in the production of CFCs and HCFCs, so the industry began switching over to R-410A and similar hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
However, shortly after the transition to HFCs, it was discovered that, although they have an ozone-depletion potential of zero, they are actually potent greenhouse gases with a medium to high global warming potential (GWP).
In late 2021, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a rule that mandated an 85% economy-wide phasedown in HFC refrigerants over the next 15 years.
The EPA ruling has pushed major refrigerant manufacturers to develop suitable alternatives to HFCs, with no chlorine and with low GWP. Newer A2L refrigerants, such as R-454B and R-32, fit this requirement, as they are chlorine-free, have a low GWP, and have similar pressures to R-410A.
Transitioning to A2L Refrigerants
The move to A2L refrigerants is happening now and will accelerate as it gets closer to 2036. Even though the EPA has issued their rules to move away from high GWP refrigerants, state and local legislation will need to allow the use of the more flammable A2L refrigerants. Each state handles the code-making process differently, so it is important to understand your local building codes for A2L allowance, before making the switch to a new refrigerant.
As with any major change, there are questions about how this change will affect you. You will want to be aware of any risks associated with using A2L refrigerants, how the switchover will impact your existing HVAC systems, and the financial burden of it all.
A2L Flammability
So how flammable are A2L refrigerants? And should you be concerned? The A2L subgroup, as categorized by ASHRAE Standard 34, are a class of refrigerants that have lower toxicity and flammability than other refrigerants, making it the second-safest category. Although flammable, A2L’s are difficult to ignite, with a low energy release and a low flame propagation speed. They’re not likely to ignite, however, they are slightly more flammable than HFC refrigerants, which introduces new costs and equipment challenges.
A2L Refrigerant + HVAC Equipment
The transition to more flammable refrigerants will require redesigned compressors, expansion valves, electrical components and refrigerant charge size. A2L HVAC equipment will also require refrigerant detection systems, which use multiple control boards with sensors to detect refrigerant leaks and shut off the compressor, while also activating the fan to dissipate the refrigerant. This added safety feature will increase the cost of each piece of HVAC equipment. Most of your existing HVAC equipment will need to be replaced, although your ductwork can remain as long as it’s in good condition.
Efficiency standards are also evolving as regulations change. Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios (SEER) are much higher now than they were a 20 years ago, which means larger coils, VRF (variable refrigerant flow) & two-stage compressors and ECM motors, all contributing to rising equipment costs.
Financial Impact
The costs of replacing your HVAC equipment due to the transition to A2L refrigerants coupled with increasing efficiency standards can be significant. Those who haven’t had a maintenance mindset with their HVAC equipment are going to change their minds pretty quick. Regular maintenance will become necessary to extend the lifespan of your existing equipment, if you’re not ready for switch to A2L refrigerants.
The transition to mildly flammable refrigerants may seem daunting as well as expensive, but your HVAC tech can walk you through it and help you to transition in the most cost-effective way. And remember, you don’t have to make the transition right now if you have regular maintenance and adopt a proactive approach to equipment care! SyncQuip Mechanical is here to help.