In the constantly evolving world of refrigerant options, the HVACR industry is preparing for the inclusion of mildly flammable or flammable refrigerants in an increasing number of applications. But the expanded use of these refrigerants won’t happen overnight, as there is a multistep approval process they must undergo to be approved for new applications.
Refrigerants are classified by ASHRAE as A1 (nonflammable), A2L (mildly flammable), B2L (toxic, mildly flammable), and A3 (flammable). The main allure of using A2L, B2L, or A3 refrigerants in place of A1 refrigerants lies in their reduced global warming potential (GWP).