R32 Refrigerant: the Greener, Cleaner Gas that Powers Your Air Conditioners
In today's world, embracing change isn't always easy for everyone. However, it is a firm fact that the power of technology enhances people's lives and drives progress.
When it comes to transitioning new equipment over from older R410A refrigerants to R32, the switch poses no new obstacles for installers.
The installation procedures, including piping and testing, remain unchanged.
While there might be a need for some slight adjustments in terms of tooling, such as components such as recovery systems and leak detectors, you won't need to buy a new air conditioner!
But why exactly did this change happen?
Keep reading to find out why R32 is becoming the preferred alternative globally.
Why did we switch to R32?
When it comes to keeping your air conditioning unit running smoothly and efficiently, the type of refrigerant gas used plays a crucial role. Until recently, the prevalent gas utilised in air conditioning units was R410A.
However increasingly, due to the pressure and the ongoing efforts to phase down environmentally harmful hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which include R410A, a shift towards a more suitable and sustainable alternative has taken place.
R410A has been found to possess a high global warming potential, resulting in adverse environmental effects such as elevated average temperatures and ozone layer depletion.
In response, international agreements have prompted the exploration of alternative refrigerants that are less harmful to the environment to achieve the ambitious goal of reducing HFC refrigerant usage by 79% by 2030.
What exactly is the R32 refrigerant?
R32 Refrigeration, sometimes called difluoromethane, is a colourless, odourless, mildly flammable refrigerant that is soluble in water.
It is free of highly toxic substances and abides by universal safety classification standards.
As a single component refrigerant, R32 has balanced energy efficiency, better environmental impact safety, and contributes to substantial energy savings (up to 10%!).
Additionally, R32 has a low global warming potential (GWP), boasting a significantly lower impact on global warming in comparison to its blended predecessors.
Recognising these benefits, an increasing market number of manufacturers have embraced R32 as the preferred refrigerant, transitioning away from the outdated R410A.
With the adoption of R32, the air conditioning industry is taking a significant step towards mitigating climate change and preserving our planet's delicate ecosystem for generations to come.
It's important to note that, like any refrigerant, R32 must be handled with utmost care and safety at all times.
Proper ventilation is crucial when charging and recovering R32 from air conditioning units to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved.
Why switch to R32 refrigerant?
Lower Global Warming Potential (GWP)
In the realm of climate science, the concept of Global Warming Potential (GWP) serves as a vital tool for evaluating and contrasting the varying impacts of different gases on our planet's temperature rise.
By quantifying the amount of heat absorbed by these gases within a specific timeframe, GWP enables us to gauge their contribution to global warming.
Essentially, the higher the GWP value assigned to a particular gas, the greater its potential to induce an overall increase in temperatures.
As part of a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the environmental impact of refrigerants, the industry is embracing the adoption of R32.
Lower Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP)
The ODP serves as a measure of environmental impact of carbon dioxide on the ozone layer, a delicate protective layer that shields us from the majority of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays.
When the ozone layer becomes thinner, it allows these harmful UV rays to penetrate the atmosphere and reach the Earth's surface.
The consequences of increased UV rays reaching our planet include a higher risk of developing diseases such as skin cancer, eye cataracts, and immune deficiency disorders.
Therefore, it is reassuring to know that many manufacturers have already switched to refridgants that possess an ODP of 0.
Decreased Flammability
The level of flammability of gases serves as a crucial factor in assessing their overall hazardous nature.
While R32 exhibits superior heat absorption and release capabilities with a low GWP, it is important to note that R32 is slightly more prone to flammability than R410A.
This demands the proper handling of pressure and ventilation during charging and recovery to prevent the accumulation of gas that could potentially ignite when exposed to an open flame.
Nevertheless, it is important to note that this gas remains highly resistant to ignition. In regular, everyday situations, R32 poses no threat to air conditioning units or the overall environment.
It is only under exceptionally specific conditions that ignition could potentially occur.
Are there any safety precautions I need to take for R32 refrigerant?
As consumers, there is nothing you need to worry about. However, professional air conditioning servicing companies and installersdo have several factors they need to consider, particularly ventilation.
Due to the flammability of these refrigerants, there are strict regulations in place regarding their handling during transportation, storage, and work environments.
Ultimately, the process of installing R32 systems is not significantly different from that of R410A, except for the added requirement of providing ventilation during transportation and fitting.
Aside from that, many of the tools commonly used for R410A can also be utilised for R32, and most providers and installer will already be familiar with the necessary safety measures will already be familiar.
While a few adjustments and precautions are necessary, the fact that R32 has been in use for several years means that modern equipment has been developed to accommodate it.
Does this mean I can replace/recharge the coolant on my own?
Recharging the refrigerant of an air conditioning unit may seem like a straightforward and cost-effective task at first glance.
However, it is crucial to understand that this process is highly hazardous, so you should NEVER attempt it yourself.
The average homeowner lacks the necessary expertise to perform a refrigerant level recharge safely.
It is safer to rely on air conditioner professionals as:
These experts possess the knowledge and experience to optimise the functionality of your entire air conditioning system.
It ensures your air conditioning unit is correctly charged.
They carry out comprehensive maintenance checks during regular intervals and during gas recharge.
They can promptly identify and resolve any potential issues that your air conditioning systems may have.
Ina nutshell, seeking the assistance of a professional air conditioning servicing company not only safeguards you from costly mistakes but also extends the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
Go Greener, Cooler, Safer with 338 as Your Preferred Aircon Professionals
By embracing R32, we can take a significant step towards reducing our carbon footprint and preserving the planet for future generations.
Its lower global warming potential and improved energy efficiency make it a desirable choice for environmentally-conscious individuals and businesses.
Ready to experience the benefits of R32 refrigerant and ensure your air conditioning system is in expert hands?
338 Aircon Servicing Singapore is a highly recommended Aircon Company in Singapore, with many delighted customers and reviews over the years on Google and Facebook.
We provide an extensive range of Aircon Services including Aircon Servicing, Aircon Repairs, Aircon Installation of the best aircon brands, Chemical Overhaul, Gas Top-up, Aircon Leaking Water, and Aircon Not Cold Fix, and more.
We have a team of professional technicians who are equipped with over 15 years of knowledge and experience in the Aircon industry, completing thousands of aircon works for both residential (Landed, Condo, and HDB) and commercial clients.
Ready to take the leap towards a sustainable and comfortable environment?
WhatsApp or call us at +65 8855 4141 for a transparent quotation and honest pricing that serves all your aircon needs!