For commercial HVAC systems, refrigerants aren’t just technical details; they’re vital to system performance, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability. Choosing the right one can help reduce utility costs, extend equipment life, and keep your facility running smoothly. Yet many decision-makers don’t realize how big an impact refrigerant selection can have, until something goes wrong. This blog explores what you need to know about refrigerants and why the right one makes all the difference.
Refrigerants are what cycle through HVAC systems to absorb and release heat. Without them, climate control wouldn’t exist. But not all refrigerants are created equal. Their chemical makeup affects how well a system performs, how much energy it uses, and how long the equipment lasts.
The wrong refrigerant, or an outdated one, can reduce system efficiency, increase wear and tear, and drive up costs.
Here’s a quick breakdown of commonly used refrigerants:
· R-22: Phased out due to its ozone-depleting potential. Still found in legacy systems but costly and difficult to source.
· R-410A: A high-efficiency, ozone-safe refrigerant with a high Global Warming Potential (GWP).
· R-32: Offers better energy efficiency and lower GWP than R-410A. Becoming popular in newer systems.
· R-1234yf/ze: Ultra-low GWP HFO refrigerants that support green building goals.
Each refrigerant has tradeoffs. Some offer environmental benefits, while others provide performance advantages. The key is to match the right refrigerant to your system and your sustainability goals.
Modern refrigerants like R-32 can significantly reduce energy usage while improving performance. In contrast, aging systems using R-22 often consume more power, require more maintenance, and face higher repair costs. Over time, these inefficiencies impact the bottom line.
The right refrigerant also protects critical components like compressors and coils, extending your HVAC system’s life and reducing unplanned downtime.
With the phasedown of high-GWP refrigerants under the AIM Act and increasing demand for ESG compliance, businesses must act now. Selecting environmentally responsible refrigerants isn’t just a best practice; it’s becoming a legal and operational requirement.
Navigating refrigerant choices isn’t easy. That’s where Nextech comes in.
As a nationwide commercial HVAC service partner, we evaluate systems, recommend upgrades, ensure compliance, and handle refrigerant management end-to-end. Our technicians are trained, EPA-certified, and committed to helping your business stay efficient, sustainable, and operational 24/7.
Refrigerants may be hidden inside your HVAC system, but their impact is anything but invisible. For better performance, lower costs, and a greener footprint, make informed decisions, and choose a service partner who knows how to guide you. Learn more about refrigerant planning or schedule a system evaluation at Nextech, your trusted commercial service provider.
