Why use R410-A REFRIGERANT?

Concerns about the hole in the ozone layer have impacted many products we use, and air conditioners are no exception. Many air conditioning systems use a HCFC (hydrochlorofluorocarbon) refrigerant, a substance known to cause of depletion of the ozone layer. The EPA currently limits the amount of HCFC that may be produced, and intends to prohibit use of HCFCs by 2030.

The refrigerant R-410A is one of the substitutes currently accepted as a replacement for the commonly used HCFC-22 (also known as R-22).

Air conditioners use a system of compressors, coils, fans, pipes and controls to remove heat from the home. A refrigerant is the medium used to transfer heat through this closed loop system. In the past, refrigerants like HCFCs containing chlorine were widely used because of their excellent heat transfer properties with respect to the refrigeration cycle. While air conditioners don't normally release chlorine gas, it can often escape into the atmosphere through a leak or during service of the unit. Because of the potential damage to the ozone layer, several countries have agreed to reduce and eventually eliminate the production of HCFCs.

An air conditioner using R-410A has slightly different specifications than traditional cooling systems. Higher pressures are needed for the refrigerant to have the same cooling effect. This increased pressure requires design changes in the compressor and piping. An unfortunate consequence is that R-410A may not be substituted into existing systems.

Efficiency of the new refrigerant is comparable with the older product. There are models currently available that have a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) of 18.