Many refrigerants high GWP, or Global Warming Potential. For instance have, one pound of 410A released into the air has more warming potential than 2,000 pounds of Carbon Dioxide. Unfortunately, many new low-GWP refrigerants are likely to be flammable. A2Ls have lower flammability than other A2 or A3 options.

A2L is a classification of refrigerant. “A” refrigerants have lower toxicity than “B” refrigerants. “2L” are more flammable than “1” but less than “2.”

EQUIPMENT CURRENTLY USING R-410A OR R-22? No. In fact, it should be clear that A2L refrigerants should only be used in systems specifically designed to use refrigerants of their type and characteristics, and that all appropriate equipment manufacturer guidelines for refrigerant use in equipment, as well as applicable standards and regulations, should be followed.

Equipment designed to take advantage of A2L refrigerants can increase system efficiency and help facilities control energy costs and meet future efficiency mandates.

Yes. Major manufacturers are already changing equipment, and the marketplace will continue to respond to regulations and mandated targets. Planning for changes now, including new safety procedures for handling A2L refrigerants, will be vital to best practices in compliance, sustainability, and cost-efficiency for your facilities.

Businesses in the United States may see clearer impacts by 2023, as major manufacturers have already committed to delivering new equipment that use A2L refrigerants. Lower GWP thresholds can be expected going forward.

Owners and facility managers can maintain systems and plan to replace equipment to fit their business strategy. A good preventive maintenance provider can evaluate system life expectancy and advise you on current refrigerant mandates, supply, and market expectations.