Refrigerants

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Contractors hoping for a final word on the newest refrigerants will have to wait — but maybe only a bit longer. Research continues and most of the studies are focusing on low-GWP HFCs and HFOs. But the good news is that what is currently being worked on could well represent the last generation of refrigerants.

A couple of manufacturers in the refrigeration sector — Mainstream Engineering and ICOR — are making announcements of developments in that sector.

Nowhere in refrigeration has change taken place faster in terms of system design and refrigerants than in the supermarket sector. But through it all, those who design, install, service, and maintain such changing technologies still need to understand how these systems’ components operate and how to do proper maintenance.

HVACR industry associations, manufacturers, end users, and fluorocarbon producers met with senior White House officials to show support and voluntary commitments to phase down HFCs. Industry coalition the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy and the White House hosted the event Sept. 16 at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.

The rule deems certain HFC refrigerants unacceptable in specific applications on or after Jan. 1, 2016. 

Commercial refrigeration systems, whether utilized in supermarkets or restaurants, seem to be constantly changing. 

The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) Connect event showcased some of the newest products that those who work in the food sector will more than likely see on a future install or service call.

For this focus on supermarkets and restaurants, The NEWS asked a number of contractors where they are in the mix and where they see the refrigeration sector heading. Here is what they had to say.

Contractors hoping for the final word on the newest refrigerants may not have to wait much longer. 

If hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are to have long-term viability, the low-global warming potential (GWP) versions will have to separate themselves from high-GWP types. And the survivors will have to play their part in energy efficiencies, especially in commercial buildings.