A1s are Out – the Time for A2Ls is Here.
A1 refrigerants are being phased-down, and A2L refrigerants are now taking their place!
What Happened to A1 Refrigerants?
A1 refrigerants are being phased-down, and A2L refrigerants are now taking their place!
A1 refrigerants, being non-flammable, are the most commonly used refrigerants in the industry, from residential and commercial air conditioning to refrigeration systems and automotive HVAC. A1’s have been the standard for decades, but are being phased out due to pollution and climate change concerns.
The AIM Act, or the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act, seeks to phase down the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are used in A1 refrigerants, and to introduce other low-risk refrigerants with less environmental impact, such as A2Ls.
Understanding the AIM Act and Its Environmental Impact
The phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) is a critical step toward mitigating climate change and also reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act is an agreement the US Government has entered into which contains a phase-down of A1 refrigerants and other high carbon emission substances, and also introduces newer, low emission technologies.
Here’s a breakdown of the AIM Act’s key components and implications:
I. The AIM Act’s Phasedown Timeline
Under the AIM Act of December 27, 2020, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is directed to phase down the production and consumption of HFCs in the United States. The goal is to reduce HFC levels to 15% of their baseline by 2036 through a structured allowance allocation and trading program. This stepwise approach ensures a gradual transition, allowing industries to adapt while achieving significant environmental benefits.
II. Final Rule for High-GWP HFCs
The AIM Act’s Final Rule, effective October 5, 2023, restricts the use of higher Global Warming Potential (GWP) HFCs in specific applications, including:
- Aerosols
- Foams
- Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, and Heat Pump (RACHP) products and equipment
The rule categorizes affected sectors into sub-sectors, each with distinct compliance dates and GWP limits. For RACHP applications, there is further differentiation between “Products” and “Systems,” ensuring tailored regulations for each category. This targeted approach helps streamline the transition to environmentally friendly alternatives.
III. Introduction of SNAP 26
In alignment with the AIM Act, the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program introduced new rulings in October 2023. SNAP 26 adds lower-GWP refrigerants that are acceptable for use under specific conditions, including:
- HFC-32
- HFO-1234yf
- R-454A
- R-454B
- R-454C
- R-455A
- R-457A
- R-516A
- HFO-1234ze(E)
These refrigerants, including hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs), represent a significant advancement in reducing the environmental footprint of refrigeration and cooling technologies.
Why It Matters
The AIM Act and associated rulings like SNAP 26 are pivotal in the global effort to address climate change. By phasing down high-GWP HFCs and introducing innovative alternatives, the United States is leading the way toward a more sustainable future. These measures not only help reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also promote technological advancements in the cooling and refrigeration industries.
Refrigeration Systems is a leader in research and development of new A2L refrigerant technologies. We are dedicated to being at the front of the pack in adhering to these new guidelines and developing better technologies to suit the needs of our modern age.
Contact us at (208) 922-5070 or email us at troyb@rae-corp.com to learn more about how we can meet your refrigeration needs!