Why we need new refrigerants
In 1987, at an international meeting known as the Montreal Protocol,
new regulations concerning chemicals with ozone depleting properties were
adopted by participating nations. As a result the existing refrigerant
(R-22) used currently in residential and light commercial air conditioning
systems was targeted as an ozone depleter due to the chlorine molecules
it contains. Because of this fact it is one of the many chemicals scheduled
for eventual phase out by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Phase Out Schedule
The phase out of the Production of new R-22 Refrigerant will begin in
year 2004. The level of new R-22 refrigerant manufacturers will be allowed
to produce will be gradually reduced until all production of new refrigerant
R-22 is stopped in year 2020. After year 2020, manufacturers will only be
allowed to recycle existing refrigerant to meet future demand.
The New Refrigerant
The new refrigerant R-410A has surfaced as the preferred replacement
by most manufacturers of air conditioning equipment. It is also marketed
under the brand name Puron. It is easily distinguishable in its pink
container as opposed to the R-22 green container.
Cost
Currently R-410A refrigerant is more expensive than R-22. It is expected
once factories are re-tooled to produce R-410A equipment to meet the demand,
our government will begin to tax the use of R-22 out of existence. This scenario
has already played out with other refrigerants.
Compatibility
R-410A and R-22 equipment cannot be cross matched. That is, if a 410A
condenser or heat pump is installed, the indoor coil must be equipped with a
410A metering device.
How This Affects My Buying Decision
Consumers should now more than ever plan and schedule their purchase
carefully to avoid down time. Both the indoor cooling coil and the outdoor
condenser must be replaced when converting to 410-A. This is a much longer
process than just replacing an outdoor unit.
Most manufacturers are on board with new 410-A products, and some have
aggressive plans for complete phase out of their R-22 product line well
before the 2010 deadline. With over 10 years of installed product operating
in the field, the new 410-A systems have proven to be every bit as reliable
and efficient as the R-22 products are.
Installation and Service
Installation and service technicians must be certified and trained to
install and service 410A equipment. Higher operating pressures require special
gauge manifold sets and hoses, as well as compatible leak detection and reclaim
equipment. Deep vacuum and 410A specific driers are critical to the long term
performance of the equipment. The synthetic polyol ester oil (POE) used in these
units is extremely hygroscopic (absorbs water easily). Proper evacuation to 500
microns is essential. Consumers should ask to see technicians' certification to
insure the proper level of training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is R-410A?
A. R-410A is a mixture (blend) of refrigerants that create near identical properties of
R-22, but are free of ozone depleting chlorine molecules. (50% R-32 and 50% R-125)
Q. Why do we need it?
A. R-410A was developed to replace the ozone depleting R-22 refrigerant now used in
most residential and some commercial air conditioning equipment. Phase out schedules
for R-22 were established at the 1987 Montreal Protocol and will begin in the year
2004 and continue through 2030.
Q. Will my existing unit work with 410A?
A. The operating pressure of R-410 is 50-70% higher than R-22. This requires
not only a specially designed compressor and metering device, but also thicker walls
on refrigerant tubing for safety. Therefore, R 410A may only be used in equipment
specifically designed for the new refrigerant.
Q. Does servicing a 410A unit differ from R-22?
A. The following service changes apply:
- Special equipment such as gauge manifold sets and hoses and
compatible leak detection and reclamation equipment is required for the
installation and service of R-410A systems.
- Vacuuming R-410A systems and the installation of 410A specific
driers is critical to long term performance of the R-410A equipment.
The synthetic polyol ester oil (POE) is extremely hygroscopic (absorbs
water easily), and evacuation to 500 microns is essential.
- Removal of any suction line filter is imperative
after 72 hours of run time. The POE will break
down drier desiccants and the resulting sludge
will permeate the system. Manufacturers will
eventually void warranties on returned compressors
which contain such sludge.
- Replacement of failed parts must be done with like components rated
for higher pressures (IE pressure control metering device).
- Pink is the industry designated color for R-410A. Comparable
operating pressures for like results at a 90 degree ambient are as
follows:
| Refrigerant |
Pressure |
| R-22 |
78-250 |
| R-410A |
140-400 |
Low pressure cut out setting is 50PSI
High pressure cut out setting is 610PSI
Q. Who has R-410A equipment?
A. Most manufacturers are on board with at least one line of R-410A equipment.
Contact Us
Climate Masters of BCS
(979) 775-6572
TACBLD010069E
Email us at: info@cmastersofbcs.com
