What Is Refrigerant?

What Is Refrigerant?

Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in commercial HVAC systems to facilitate the transfer of heat, enabling efficient cooling and heating processes. It plays a critical role in absorbing and releasing heat at various stages of the heat exchange cycle, allowing the HVAC system to cool or heat large commercial spaces effectively. Understanding the properties and regulations of different refrigerants is essential for compliance and system performance.

HVAC refrigerant circulates through components such as the condenser, compressor, evaporator, and expansion valve. It undergoes a phase change from liquid to gas and back, which allows it to efficiently absorb and release heat, thus cooling or heating the environment.

Types of HVAC Refrigerant

Refrigerants are categorized into three main types:

• CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons): Known for their ozone-depleting potential and their very high global warming potential (GWP).
• HFCs (Hydrofluorocarbons): Used as a replacement for CFCs and have no ozone depleting potential but still possess elevated GWP.
• HFOs (Hydrofluoroolefins): The latest development with lower GWP and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP).
• Nonfluorinated or “Natural Refrigerants”: They are alternatives to synthetic fluorine or chlorine based refrigerants. Unlike other refrigerants, natural refrigerants can be found in nature but are commercially generated through industrial processes

CFCs, like R-22, are banned because they are detrimental to the ozone layer, and HFCs are being phased down proactively to reduce their GWP to prevent future climate change impacts. The newest generation of HVAC refrigerants, HFOs, was developed in response to EPA regulations and is being used in newer HVAC equipment. These compounds have lower global warming potential and zero ODP.

It's important to speak to your HVAC professional when considering a refrigerant transition because knowing which refrigerants are compatible with your equipment is crucial for operation and maintenance.

Trane Handles Refrigerant Responsibly

In commercial settings, a significant percentage of refrigerant emissions occur if leaks develop and during equipment disposal. To address this, Trane promotes responsible refrigerant management, encouraging the reclamation and recycling of refrigerants. This program allows dealers to return used refrigerant to Trane Supply in exchange for new cylinders, minimizing environmental impact.

Resources for Refrigerant

• Refrigerant Transition Management
• Understanding A2L Refrigerants: A Q&A with Steve Kujak
• What HVAC Technicians Need to Know about the Refrigerant Transition
• HVAC Refrigerant Regulations: Three Success Strategies Every Building Owner Should Know
• Video: Refrigerants – For Building Comfort and Regulation Compliance

For more information on commercial HVAC systems and refrigerant management, contact your local Trane representative for expert guidance and support.