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Why Are We Replacing R-410A?

What is R-410A?

 

Forane® 410A Refrigerant (R-410A) is a near-azeotropic refrigerant mixture composed of two hydrofluorocarbons (HFC), R-32 and R-125, which does not deplete the ozone layer and is suitable for all types of air conditioners. Forane® 410A is widely used in new residential and light commercial air conditioning systems, heat pumps, dehumidifiers, chillers and other HVAC applications. Since R-410A has higher cooling capacity and pressure than R-22, it is not suitable for R-22 equipment.

Why are we moving away from R-410A?

The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act was enacted in December 2020. In October 2021 and 2022, the EPA issued a final rule (the Allowance Allocation Rule) that focuses on the first area – the phase down of HFC production and consumption.

Companies affected include those that use HFCs, especially in refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment, foams, aerosols, fire suppressants, or the six applications designated in the AIM Act as eligible for allowances.

In October 2021, EPA granted several petitions asking for a GWP limit of 750 on refrigerants used in new residential and light commercial air conditioners as of 01/01/2025. Under the AIM Act, the Agency has up to two years to issue a final regulation in those sectors. While the petitions as drafted would preclude use of R-410A, we expect that the refrigerant will continue to be available to service existing units for some time.

 

What is the replacement for R-410A?


A lower GWP replacement for R-410A is Forane® R-32. Forane® 32 is a Zero Ozone Depleting Potential (ODP) stand-alone refrigerant for air conditioning and heat pump applications. 

Slightly flammable (A2L according to the ASHRAE 34), Forane® R-32 can be used in new equipment designed specifically for mildly flammable refrigerants as a replacement for R-410A equipment. Its low density allows for the option to operate using a smaller refrigerant charge. Consequently, there is a double advantage of Forane® R-32 versus other high-density solutions.

Benefits of R-32 include: 

 
  • Low GWP (AR4 675)
  • Higher capacity and better efficiency over R-410A
  • Zero glide, unlike the R-400 series blends
  • Easier reclaim (no fractionation)
  • Globally available and used among many OEMs
  • Already in use in a number of blends on the market
  • Manufactured in Calvert City, Kentucky
 

Is there a retrofit for R-410A?

There is no retrofit or drop-in replacement for R410A. Forane® R-32 is a replacement for R-410A

Download the Forane® R-32 Brochure

Find the features, benefits and basic safety information all on an easy to manage tri-fold brochure.

Download the brochure
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