Why Correcting Misinformation is Key to a Successful A2L Transition

The transition to A2L equipment is quickly approaching, and misinformation about A2Ls is coming with it. Already, in many parts of the country, A2L equipment is being installed, and even more states have approved A2Ls for installation (see AHRI’s map of A2L-approved states). Our industry must educate the entire channel about the transition before more rumors can spread.

Debunking Misinformation: A Contractor’s Misguided Plea to Congress

Recently, a contractor contacted his member of Congress asking for help stopping the transition, but his reasons were nearly 100% false.

Message edited for grammar and clarity

Nearly every line of this message contains factually incorrect statements that could be used to scare consumers about these new refrigerants. Here are a few facts to correct the record:

• Congress directed the EPA to move the industry away from high-GWP refrigerants like R-410A, R-404A, and R-134a. While the EPA approves using A2Ls, the regulations only require that new refrigerants meet low-GWP thresholds.

• A2Ls do not contain propane or methane. Propane and methane are saturated hydrocarbons that burn very quickly because they are saturated molecules. Hydrofluorocarbons and hydrofluoroolefins are unsaturated molecules bonding carbon, fluorine, and hydrogen together. While fluorine is non-flammable on its own, hydrogen and carbon are, and low-GWP refrigerants reduce the ratio of non-flammable fluorine to flammable carbon and hydrogen, allowing the hydrogen and carbon to burn. Still, because the molecules are unsaturated, they burn much slower than the common saturated hydrocarbon gases we’re more familiar with as flammable gases.

• It is correct that if a leak were to occur indoors, the gases would spread through the ventilation system, as can happen with existing refrigerants. A2Ls get their monicker from ASHRAE’s toxicity and flammability classification system; A1 refrigerants like R-410A and others have the same “lower toxicity” rating as new A2Ls.

• R-32 and R-454B have an equal or greater heat transfer efficiency than R-410A. Similarly sized systems will require less A2L refrigerant than current R-410A systems.

• Tonnage is a measurement of delivered cooling capacity; a 4-ton system will provide the same cooling ability regardless of the heat transfer capacity of the refrigerant used. The size of the unit will not change based on the refrigerant used. The most significant impact on efficiency and comfort is the quality installation of equipment, ductwork, insulation, and controls.

The Importance of Clear Communication: Preventing Misguided Information in the HVACR Industry

While this is only one example of misinformation, it is evidence that we as an industry must do more to provide clear and correct information to the public about the benefits of this transition and the continued use of cooling and heating technologies in use today. If we leave the messaging in the hands of others, we are more likely to see additional transitions away from current technologies to refrigerants like propane.

Stay Informed and Prepared with HARDI Distributor Resources

HARDI is continuously working to provide accurate resources for distributors and their customers:

• Check out HEAT.U training courses to ensure your employees are up to date on transition dates, A2L storage, and transportation regulations.

• If you have questions about A2L refrigerants use AskA2L, an interactive chat that leverages AI to produce accurate and real-time guidance on unique A2L questions. (Also, the source of the screenshots in this post).

• Read HARDI's latest insights and news on the HFC transition.

If you have further questions about the A2L transition, please reach out to HARDI's VP of Government Affairs, Alex Ayers.