A Guide to the 3 Types of AC Refrigerant

When you purchase a new air conditioner, it comes with a full charge of refrigerant, a liquid chemical that helps in the creation of cool air. Depending on the unit brand you choose, the refrigerant type varies, each with its pros and cons. So, to find which type best suits you, we’ll break down the three types of AC refrigerant for residential and commercial use. 

Comfort Specialists, the most reliable HVAC company in Fairfield, NJ, has received the “Elite Service” and “Best of” awards in 2020 from HomeAdvisor, proving we remain a favorite in this and surrounding areas. Below, we’ll break down your refrigerant options before you bring it into your home. 

What Is Refrigerant?

Refrigerant refers to a coolant that starts as a low-pressure liquid substance. As the air conditioner begins its cooling cycle, the refrigerant runs through the evaporator coil to absorb warmth from surrounding indoor air that passes over the coil. Then, the compressor moves the refrigerant into the condenser unit, where the compressor pressurizes the refrigerant to release the warm air. 

Because the compressor sits in the outdoor compartment, the hot air releases outside your home, and the pressure causes the refrigerant to revert to a liquid. The liquid then passes through the condenser coil to the indoor evaporator unit to repeat the process until the AC unit’s cooling cycle completes. 

The Three Types of Refrigerant

Freon

Freon, or R-22, was one of the first cooling agents for residential and commercial HVAC systems, including air conditioners and heat pumps. In 1928, the non-flammable fluid made it into the market and quickly became popular for the next few decades, with most units carrying it. However, in the early 2000s, scientists discovered it depleted the ozone, which led to the slow phasing out of the product. 

Starting in 2010, manufacturers stopped creating equipment that depended on R-22 but still provided the refrigerant for already existing HVAC equipment. However, the final phase of the Freon ban didn’t occur until 2020, when the government halted all production and importation of the product. Therefore, if your unit still relies on Freon, consider purchasing a new system so repairs won’t become an issue. 

Puron

Although created in 1991, Puron (or R-410A) didn’t become a standard refrigerant until the Freon ban began in 2010. Because it doesn’t contain chlorine like HCFC and CFC, the HFC chemical creates less of an environmental impact than Freon. It also offers better indoor air quality compared to Freon, which could cut off your oxygen supply and possibly lead to death with prolonged exposure from a leak. 

Since Puron operates at higher pressures, it provides greater energy efficiency, which allows air conditioning systems to pull less from your energy grid, leading to lower bills. It also proves more reliable and cost effective since the product’s high supply makes it cheap. 

R-407C

While Puron is common now, many expect this and other types of AC refrigerant to eventually diminish in stock and rise in price, so the trend toward creating alternatives has begun. New and upcoming alternatives like R-407C make a better option than both Freon and Puron since scientists believe they contribute to even less ozone depletion. 

As an HFO refrigerant, it has a global warming potential that measures 78% less than Puron and an ODP of zero. In many cases, it also has better cooling and energy efficiency for lower costs and better indoor temperatures. Other low-GWP HVAC refrigerants include (but are not limited to) the following:

• HFO-1234yf
• HFO-1234ze
• R1233zd
• Whilst R32

Your One-Stop-Shop for Absolute Comfort!

Refrigerant continues to evolve with the intention of bettering the environment and providing more benefits for residential and commercial property owners. At Comfort Specialists, we understand the need to create safety inside and outside your property, so our experienced and knowledgeable technicians constantly update and improve our inventory with top products and equipment. 

We specialize in refrigerant, so whether you want a new air conditioner that carries a safer version of it or have a Freon leak that you need us to remedy immediately, we’re available 24/7 to satisfy your needs. With over a decade in the industry, 100% customer satisfaction, and a lifetime guarantee, you never have to worry about your family's comfort. 

To learn more about the types of AC refrigerant currently on the market and any upcoming changes, contact Comfort Specialists in Fairfield, Kenvil, Mt. Olive, Independence Township, and surrounding New Jersey areas. Call 973-490-4881 for five-star services today!