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Keeping cool during a British summer is essential, and your air conditioning unit’s refrigerant plays a crucial role. This guide breaks down the different types of refrigerants (often called “AC gas“), helping you make an informed decision.
Refrigerant is the working fluid in your AC unit. It absorbs heat from inside your home and releases it outside, creating a cooling effect. The type of refrigerant significantly impacts the unit’s efficiency, environmental impact, and running costs.
Let’s look at the main players:
R-22 (Freon): This older refrigerant has been phased out in the UK and most of the world due to its ozone-depleting properties. It’s now illegal to install systems using R-22, and finding replacement gas can be difficult and expensive. If your system still uses R-22, it’s likely nearing the end of its lifespan and a replacement is advisable.
R-410A (Puron): This was the standard replacement for R-22. It’s a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) and doesn’t deplete the ozone layer like R-22. However, it has a high Global Warming Potential (GWP), meaning it contributes to climate change. While still widely used, it’s being phased down in favour of more environmentally friendly options.
R-32: This is the current leading refrigerant. It has a significantly lower GWP than R-410A (approximately one-third), making it a much more environmentally responsible choice. It’s also more energy-efficient, meaning lower running costs for you. Many new AC units are designed specifically for R-32.
Feature | R-22 (Freon) | R-410A (Puron) | R-32 |
---|---|---|---|
Ozone Depletion | High | None | None |
Global Warming Potential (GWP) | High (1810) | High (2088) | Medium (675) |
Efficiency | Lower | Moderate | Higher |
Availability | Limited/Banned | Widely Available (but phasing down) | Widely Available |
Typical Lifespan of AC Unit (with proper maintenance) | 10-15 years (if still operational) | 10-15 years | 10-15 years |
Regardless of the refrigerant, regular maintenance is crucial for a long AC unit lifespan (typically 10-15 years). This includes:
For new AC installations, R-32 refrigerant is the clear winner. Its lower GWP (675 compared to R-410A’s 2088) translates to a significantly reduced environmental footprint. This is crucial as regulations are increasingly favouring refrigerants with lower environmental impact. In terms of running costs, R-32 systems often offer a 5-10% improvement in energy efficiency. Over a typical 10-15 year lifespan of an AC unit, this can result in substantial savings on your energy bills. If you’re still using an R-22 system, replacement is a high priority. The cost of R-22 refrigerant is rising due to the phase-out, making repairs expensive. Upgrading to an R-32 system not only eliminates this issue but also provides the benefits of improved efficiency and a much lower environmental impact. Choosing R-410A, while currently available, means investing in a technology that is actively being phased down, making it a less sensible long-term investment than R-32.
If you’re buying a new AC unit, choose one that uses R-32. It’s the most environmentally friendly and efficient option currently available. If you have an older R-22 system, consider replacing it with a modern R-32 unit. While R-410A is still available, its phase-down means it’s not a future-proof choice.
By understanding the different refrigerant types, you can make an informed decision and ensure your home stays cool efficiently and responsibly.
If you’re still unsure about what air conditioning gas you need or are considering upgrading to a more energy-efficient and eco-friendly system, we can help. At Be Cool Refrigeration, we specialise in installing and maintaining air conditioning units that use the latest refrigerants like R410A and R32, ensuring your system is both cost-effective and environmentally responsible.
Contact us today for expert advice or to schedule your installation. Let’s help you stay cool while reducing your energy costs and carbon footprint!
Address:
Office 7, 35/37 Ludgate Hill
London, EC4M 7JN
Expert Insights, Maintenance Tips, and the lates updates on Air Conditioning & Refrigeration.
Address:
Office 7, 35/37 Ludgate Hill
London, EC4M 7JN
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