Different types of air conditioning refrigerant

Currently, there are two types of air conditioning refrigerant being used in residential cooling systems. R-22 and R410A.

R-22 has been used extensively in residential, commercial and industrial applications for decades. R-22 is a Hydro chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), which has been linked to Ozone depletion. For this reason, the import, export and manufacture of R-22 and other HCFC’s has been controlled globally, with Australia adopting a gradual phase out. Since 2016, Australia has been decreasing imports of R-22 on a progressive basis with the aim to have a total phase out by 2020, however, there will be some small volumes permitted for existing appliances until 2030.

R410A is a mixture of difluoromethane and pentafluoroethane, which is the industry choice to replace R-22 in central air conditioning systems. This is because it is less reactive with the environment while having the same home cooling characteristics of R-22. It contains only fluorine, and therefore does not contribute to Ozone depletion.

R401A is not interchangeable with R-22 – you must choose one or the other, and your air conditioning equipment is designed to operate with it. This newer system is dependable and efficient.

• Less reactive with the environment
• Will replace R-22 by 2020
• Cannot be used with R-22 systems
• Quiet and dependable

If you are concerned about what refrigerant is being used in your system, contact us today for a free no-obligation quote and assistance in changing over your system.