The reclamation of HFC refrigerants is now essential so that existing HVAC systems, and systems that can be sold through 2025, can be serviced for the next couple of decades.

In early March, a California man became the first to be arrested for smuggling and then selling banned refrigerant across the U.S. border.

At the AHR Expo, manufacturers talked about their plans for switching to low-GWP refrigerants for commercial refrigeration equipment and displayed some of their solutions.

Growing demand for recovered HFCs highlights the importance of proper refrigerant recovery. Unfortunately, counterfeit recovery cylinders are emerging amid this increasing need.

New A2L-related code requirements will impact HVAC system installation and include warning labels, ventilation, leak detection, and limits on refrigerant amounts for comfort air conditioning.

At an educational session at the AHR Expo, industry experts discussed the latest status of the AIM Act and also provided insights into which states have updated their building codes to allow the use of A2Ls.

In comments to EPA’s proposed rule regarding HFC management, many HVACR stakeholders expressed concern over issues including tracking cylinders, training technicians, and reclaiming refrigerant.

AHRI launched an interactive US map showing state codes for A2L refrigerants, alongside a video series on low-GWP refrigerant transition.

The transition to A2Ls will likely serve as an interim solution. Europe has already embraced propane in certain heat pump systems, and the U.S. may follow suit, albeit with a different low-GWP refrigerant.