HC refrigerants have an A3 safety rating, meaning there are flammability issues. Even so, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officially gave Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) approval to R-290 (propane), R-600a (isobutene), and R-441A (a blend marketed by ComStar International as HCR 188c).
There is no question that ongoing training is needed in the HVACR industry. The real question may be: How qualified are those doing the training? RSES has proposed an answer through the development of its RSES Certified Trainer (RCT) program.
Across the HVACR industry, contractors and trade associations are welcoming veterans in an organized and conscientious way, with numerous success stories resulting from their efforts.
Hydrocarbon Refrigerants – A Study Guide for Service Technicians from RSES has been developed to assist the refrigeration technician in understanding the requirements to safely maintain and service systems that utilize flammable refrigerants.
