Reason 1 - Performance
R290 is a high-performance refrigerant!
- Higher Thermal Conductivity
- Higher Refrigerant Performance
- Lower Runnings Costs
- Lower High Side Compressor Pressures
- More Consistent Performance
- Easier to Size/Verify Proper Capillary Tube & Charge Amounts
- No Glide*
- Less Unpredictable Temperature Variations
Many other styles of commercial refrigeration have already adapted R290, problem-free, and have seen great results.
*Glide = The total temperature glide of a refrigerant blend is defined as the temperature difference between the saturated vapor temperature and the saturated liquid temperature at a constant pressure. Another definition is the temperature difference between the starting and ending temperature of a refrigerant phase change within a system at a constant pressure. – ACHR News.
Reason 2 – Eco-Friendly
It’s eco-friendly!
- R290 is classified as a hydrocarbon (HC) refrigerant, which is a natural, non-toxic refrigerant and the top alternative to hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants.
- Eco-friendly
- Ultra-Low GWP (Global Warming Potential)
- Zero ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential)
- Commercial Market Acceptance – Commercial refrigeration manufacturers have transitioned complete product lines to R290 and increasingly, retailers are beginning to request or demand such refrigerants.
- Due to its eco-friendly properties, its projected to have long-term approval as a commercial refrigerant.
Reason 3 – 50 State Compliance
Our investigation into R290 was intensified with the government’s announcement of the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP), which listed R404a on their Unacceptable Refrigeration Listings.
Although Federal Courts vacated the SNAP listings, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) did not, and adopted the vacated rules from SNAP, listing a phase out date of R404a on January 1, 2020. Since then, many states have pledged their own actions.
Transitioned to R290 in 2020-2021: California, Colorado, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, and Washington
Transitioning to R290 in 2022: Maine, Rhode Island, Virginia, All Provinces & Territories of Canada
U.S. Climate Alliance Member (Proposed Action): Connecticut, Hawaii, Oregon, and Pennsylvania
U.S. Climate Alliance Member: Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Wisconsin
Proposed Action: Texas
R448a is considered a transitory/temporary/interim refrigerant. R290 and other hydrocarbon refrigerants are considered ‘final solution’ refrigerants.