As the HFC Phasedown is in full effect, you may have heard of the class of low GWP refrigerants called A2L’s. A2L refrigerants are currently being phased into the HVACR industry to replace HFC refrigerants. Although A2L’s seem to be a new class of refrigerant, more than 68 million air conditioners use this group as of December 2018 (Source: ACHR NEWS Network). Systems are transitioning from A1 refrigerants to A2L refrigerants in air conditioners and heat pumps due to the new regulations and the positives of their low GWP level.
The main difference in an A2L refrigerant and an A1 refrigerant, such as R-410A and R-134a, is the ability to propagate a flame. Although it is difficult to ignite A2L gases, precautions must be taken when handling these refrigerants.
A2L refrigerants have helped the HVACR industry be able to safely meet the strict GWP requirements in applications and combat the negative affects refrigerants have on global warming potential. The HFC Phasedown has been implemented to help improve the GWP level of the refrigerants we are using in our residential and commercial systems. A2L’s help reduce the HFC use in the short-term and long-term future, while also helping satisfy energy efficiency, safety, and environmental standards. By transitioning to these low GWP A2L refrigerants, we are working together to help protect the environment.
Examples of A2L Refrigerants: R-32, R-1234yf, R-1234ze, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, R-454C, R-455A, R-457A.
Source: https://www.achrnews.com/articles/141733-understanding-a2l-refrigerants-for-air-conditioners