When to Make the Conversion to New Refrigerants

The challenges of climate change mean finding more sustainable options, and restaurants, grocery retailers, and any commercial business relying on refrigeration are now facing restrictions on the types of refrigerants available.

With some of the most common ones being phased out, you might wonder when you should do your commercial refrigeration conversion, so the Solid Refrigeration Team has the details below!

What Types of Refrigerants Are There?

The age of your refrigerator system will most likely affect the type of refrigerant you're using, with older models using outdated options. Transitioning means choosing a product that offers performance, safety, reliability, cost, and environmental effects, while still adhering to the EPA's stringent requirements.

There are six common types of refrigerants used in most commercial refrigeration. R-12 and R22 are now banned in new models due to the hydrofluorocarbons, an ozone-depleting gas. Other options, including, R-290, R-134A, R-404A, and R-450A, are all eco-friendly and considered great alternatives.

When Is the Right Time to Convert Your System?

The EPA is beginning to enforce stricter limits on hydrofluorocarbons because they are directly related to global warming due to their greenhouse gases. Government regulations are requiring an 85% reduction in the use of these chemicals by 2036.

Since hydrofluorocarbons make up most of the old refrigerants on the market and because they're often leaked through the piping of the appliances as they are compressed, this is a major concern.

The consensus is to start considering doing the transition sooner than later, and following the EPA's regulations by choosing eco-friendly alternatives is recommended. While class I and II refrigerants are being converted out, the EPA recommends R-290 because it's a non-toxic and natural option that doesn't contain ozone-depleting properties. It's also more energy efficient and can reduce energy costs by 28%.

R600a

R600a (Isobutane) has been around for many years and is used for geothermal power generation. It does not contribute to ozone depletion and is an equally excellent replacement for R12 and R22.

R-413

This is a zeotropic blend of R-218 and R-134a and is a refrigerant designed for R12 replacement in medium to high-temperature refrigeration units.

R-744

R-744 is a natural refrigerant made up of a carbon dioxide-based compound and is an excellent replacement for R134a for use in ultra-low, low, and medium temperatures.

How Do You Choose the Right Option?

Your options will come down to what type of system you have and what qualities you're looking for as your alternative solution. When used appropriately, your cooling system will function optimally for years to come, and it's always recommended to reach out to a professional to ensure you are getting the correct refrigerant for your conversion.

Your Refrigerator Experts in the Twin Cities

Trying to keep up with the EPA's regulations with your commercial refrigeration system can be a confusing experience, so the pros at Solid Refrigeration are here to help! Our main goal is to help keep your systems in the best condition possible, and with over 15 years in the business, you know you are working with a trusted name.

You never have to worry about quality, working refrigerators with our 24/7 emergency services and complete energy audits. We're happy to answer all your questions, so give us a call at 952-854-2850 or contact us online to connect with our team.