When it comes to refrigerant choice, R32 is certainly the most talked about. With the continuing rising cost of R407C and R410A, maintaining existing equipment is becoming increasingly more expensive for systems that are no longer considered up to date. No wonder more and more of our clients are requesting our advice in what air conditioning system suits them now and for the foreseeable future.

Legislation

The HVAC industry is facing its largest challenge yet. The requirements of the 2014 EU fluorinated greenhouse gas (F-gas) regulations, which include the phasing out of HFC’s, means that manufacturers need to not only reduce refrigerant emissions in their systems but also make them increasingly more energy efficient.

Advancing heat exchanger technology, improved design and manufacturing processes, more rigid preventative maintenance all aid the overall aim, but the most important element is utilising refrigerant with a lower GWP (Global Warming Potential).

How is GWP measured?

The Global Warming Potential (GWP) was developed to allow comparisons of the global warming impacts of different gases. Specifically, it is a measure of how much energy the emissions of 1 ton of a gas will absorb over a given period of time, relative to the emissions of 1 ton of carbon dioxide (CO2). The larger the GWP, the more that a given gas warms the Earth compared to CO2 over that time period.

From 2009 to 2012 HFC sales in the EU averaged 183 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent a year. This provides the baseline for the phase down, the following shows what percentage HFC baseline will be available to the EU market every year until 2030:

With stricter regulations, rising costs of legacy refrigerants and a move by manufacturers to invest in their new R32 systems, now is definitely the time to consider your options with regard to your air conditioning systems.

Would an R32 system be right for you?

Of course, R32 has many advantages but there are some pit falls too and a considered approach needs to be taken before investing in new equipment.

JCW have been installing complex HVAC through to simple air conditioning systems for over 20 years and have gained an enviable reputation for technical expertise and professional service within this field. Our customers have peace of mind in that we remain one step ahead with regard to new technology and that we will always offer a balanced view and choice of system.

With this is in mind we decided to share some of our knowledge and experience with our customers in the form of our new eBook - A Guide to R32 Refrigerant. This eBook covers:

• Current legislation with regard to HFC gases (Hydro-Fluoro-Carbon)

• The differences in refrigerant available

• The pros and cons of R32

• What the future may hold for HVAC systems

• Some pointers with regard to Project Planning and Service Provider Selection

• Answer some Frequently Asked Questions

If you would like to download this free eBook, simply click here for your copy.