R-454b Will Be The New Refrigerant Of The Future Starting 2025

Summary

This video discusses the HVAC industry's shift from older refrigerants like R22 and R410A to newer alternatives such as R454B. Highlighting the environmental impact of refrigerants, the presenter explains the dangers of ozone depletion and global warming potential. The need for technician training on safely handling these mildly flammable A2L refrigerants is emphasized, alongside upcoming regulatory changes effective January 1, 2023. While R22 and R410A will remain available for servicing, the industry is moving toward more eco-friendly options, positioning R454B as a promising solution for sustainable HVAC practices.

Takeaways

• 😀 The HVAC industry is transitioning from R22 refrigerant to R410A and now to R454B and R32 to minimize environmental impact.
• 🌍 R22 contains chlorine, which contributes to ozone layer depletion, while R410A has zero ozone depletion potential but a high global warming potential (GWP).
• 📉 The goal is to develop refrigerants with both low ozone depletion potential and low global warming potential, ideally below a GWP of 500.
• 🔄 R454B (Option XL41) is emerging as a preferred alternative due to its lower GWP of 465 and no ozone depletion potential.
• 🏗️ New regulations effective January 1, 2023, require updates to residential codes to allow the use of mildly flammable A2L refrigerants.
• 👨‍🔧 Training and certification for HVAC technicians are essential to safely handle new refrigerants like R454B, which require different handling protocols.
• 📅 Existing refrigerants like R22 and R410A will remain available for servicing current systems, countering misleading claims about their legality.
• 📊 Historical context: The transition from R12 to R22 to R410A illustrates a progressive shift toward environmentally safer options in refrigerants.
• 🚫 Halons, previously used for fire suppression, are banned due to their harmful environmental effects, emphasizing the importance of using safer alternatives.
• 📺 The video encourages viewers to stay informed about HVAC changes and subscribe for updates on new developments in the industry.

Q & A

What major transition is the HVAC industry undergoing?

The HVAC industry is transitioning from R22 refrigerant to R410A and is now moving towards R454B and R32 refrigerants.

Why is R22 being phased out?

R22 is being phased out because it contains chlorine, which contributes to ozone layer depletion.

What are the environmental impacts of R410A?

While R410A has no ozone depletion potential, it has a higher global warming potential (GWP) than R22, which raises environmental concerns.

What are the benefits of using R454B as a refrigerant?

R454B has zero ozone depletion potential and a significantly lower GWP of 465, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

What is the goal for the global warming potential of refrigerants?

The goal is to reduce the GWP of refrigerants below 500 to mitigate their impact on climate change.

What challenges does the transition to R454B pose?

The transition requires updates to residential codes, training for technicians, and the design of new equipment to safely handle A2L mildly flammable refrigerants.

Will R22 and R410A still be available for service after their phase-out?

Yes, R22 and R410A will still be available for servicing existing equipment until at least 2030.

What organizations are providing training for technicians regarding the new refrigerants?

Organizations such as AHRI and ESCO are creating classes to educate technicians about the new refrigerants and their proper handling.

What changes are needed in residential codes for the new refrigerants?

Current residential codes do not allow the use of A2L mildly flammable refrigerants, requiring updates to accommodate the new refrigerants.

How will the 2022 California Energy Code affect refrigerant usage?

Starting January 1, 2023, manufacturers will need to focus on producing systems that utilize R454B, which may influence broader market changes across the country.