R-32 Refrigerant: The New HVAC Standard vs. R-410A

If you’re installing a new HVAC unit, it may use R-32 refrigerant. While R-410A was introduced during the phase-out of R-22 Freon, even more environmentally friendly alternatives have since been developed. 

The new R-32 refrigerant is known for its lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), which allows greater HVAC efficiency. We’ll look at how R-32 is becoming the new standard and its benefits.

Why R-32 Refrigerant Is the Future of HVAC Systems

Since the late 1980s, regulations over refrigerants have become tighter as they were found to contribute to ozone layer depletion. Freon was phased out and banned in 2020. Since then, improved formulations have been developed and manufacturers have produced more eco-friendly refrigerants and air conditioning systems that work with them. These include R-32, known as difluoromethane (consisting of hydrogen, carbon, and fluorine) which will replace previous versions like the R-410A and R-22 systems and coolants.

The benefits of R-32 vs. R-410 or R-22 refrigerant include:

• Most Balanced Refrigerant: R-32 is the most balanced refrigerant when considering its environmental impact versus energy efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

• More Eco-Friendly: While R-410A has an ozone depletion potential of 0, it has a high GWP. However, R-32 has a smaller environmental impact and a GWP of just 675 (compared to R-410A’s GWP of 2,090).

• Improved Efficiency: Since R-32 refrigerant more efficiently conveys heat, it may reduce electricity consumption by about 10% compared to AC units that use R-22.

• High Operating Pressure: A high operating pressure (about 174 to 377 psi) is similar to R-410A. However, R-32 is more efficient at exchanging heat and delivers a higher capacity.

• Not Highly Flammable: The lower flammability rating of R-32 compared to other HVAC refrigerants makes it a safer alternative. However, it can still be a fire hazard in some circumstances (it is an A2L refrigerant).

• Stability: R-32 is a single-component refrigerant, which contributes to energy efficiency and stability. Single-component refrigerants retain their chemical composition longer than blended refrigerants.

• Less Refrigerant Required by Volume: A lower volumetric refrigerant charge means less is needed compared to R-410A to achieve the same system performance. This also contributes to a reduced environmental footprint and lower costs.

• Low Toxicity: Exposure to some refrigerants can cause serious burns and respiratory symptoms. However, R-32 has a low toxicity, so a leak presents fewer health hazards. It’s also safer for contractors to work with.

• More Readily Available: High-GWP refrigerants like R-410A will become more scarce, like R-22 did. This means they’ll become more expensive. As alternatives like R-32 become more readily available, they will be more affordable and accessible.

R-32 Refrigerant Is Not New, Though It is Becoming the New Standard

Although it’s often branded as the next generation of HVAC refrigerants, R-32 was brought to market in 2012 by Daikin. R-32 has been made to be a low-GWP refrigerant with the least environmental impact of modern solutions. 

R-32 is part of R-410A and makes up one-half of its formulation. The other half is R-125, a refrigerant with fire suppression properties superior to pure R-32. Nonetheless, the low-GWP nature of the R-32 AC refrigerant has made it more appealing in residential and commercial air conditioning applications.

The mild flammability of R-32 has become less of a concern with advances in AC unit safety. It has a low burning velocity, so ignition of the refrigerant is difficult. You’d need a high concentration of it in a direct flame, which would still be slow and unsustainable. Millions of HVAC units that require difluoromethane have been installed and used without any safety issues. 

What the New HVAC Standard Means for Homeowners

The new AC refrigerant provides an opportunity to improve comfort, energy efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Homeowners face different choices as they install new HVAC systems. As R-410A becomes obsolete and R-22 is phased out or banned, you will have to consider more long-term solutions.

A new HVAC unit isn’t inexpensive, but upgrading to an R-32-compatible system can yield long-term savings. It can help lower monthly energy bills and avoid the higher costs of maintaining an old system. Installing an energy-efficient unit can also qualify you for utility and government HVAC rebates.

Whether your goals are financial or to be more eco-friendly, professional guidance is essential. A Hansen HVAC contractor can help you decide whether to repair or replace your current system and help you find a cost-effective long-term solution. The goal for your home is to rely upon a future-proof system that complies with current standards and is adaptable to future advances, saving on the cost of early replacement.

Refrigerant Standards Are Ever-Evolving

Research and development into finding more efficient, safer refrigerants are ongoing. The HVAC industry is focused on discovering new types and considering their impact from production to disposal or recycling. Homeowners may not always find themselves in the loop. However, they can stay informed on the latest developments and options by consulting with HVAC professionals and choosing new systems compatible with different refrigerants or that are upgradeable.

R-32 refrigerant represents a big step towards a more efficient, sustainable, and safe alternative.

Contact Hansen Super Techs

At Hansen Super Techs, we’re committed to keeping up with the latest technologies to ensure you enjoy a comfortable home. We install the newest HVAC systems for homeowners in Mobile, Baldwin County, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Our licensed technicians also provide 5 Star rated repair and maintenance services that enable your AC and heater to run reliably all year long.

Contact Hansen Super Techs today to request service or ask about a new HVAC unit or new refrigerant.