What’s the Big Deal About the Refrigerants in My AC System?

Keri, what’s happening with refrigerants in commercial building air conditioning?

The most common refrigerants used in air conditioning are fluoride-containing hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) – and the EPA is phasing them out due to their high global warming potential (GWP). Next-generation refrigerants, which are non-ozone-depleting with ultra-low GWPs and very short atmospheric lives, must fully phase in by 2036.

Why is that so difficult?

It’s hard to beat HFCs for their cooling efficiency. For many owners replacing HFCs means balancing doing what’s right and what stakeholders expect with what is feasible based on operating budget and other business priorities.

What’s the solution?

Manufacturers are developing new HFO refrigerants – (hydrofluoro-olefins and hydrochlorofluoro-olefins) that don’t warm the planet.  Every OEM will make replacement recommendations based on a variety of factors, including availability and cost.

What options do building owners have?

In general, they have three choices:

1. Upgrade technology. Buy and install new equipment that uses new preferred refrigerants and refrigerant substitutes. Also, updating to newer controls and building management systems can make regulatory compliance easier.
2. Change out refrigerants. Some units may be retrofitted to use HFO refrigerants. That gets tricky, so be sure to ask an expert like Trane.
3. Carry on as usual. Regulations allow building owners to continue using installed HFC air conditioners.

What can building owners do?

Contact Trane and we can help you and your operations understand the options, evaluate the choices, and determine your next steps.