The new F-gas regulation and what it means for the HVAC-R market
Gradual phase down
To reduce the environmental impact of refrigerants, the European Union wants to lower the consumption and use of HFCs in air conditioners and other HVAC-R applications. However, HFCs remain necessary in many applications because of their energy efficiency, safety and economic benefits. Instead of a ban or phaseout of HFCs, there is a gradual phase down of HFCs to maintain sustainable growth in the HVAC-R industry.
Measuring HFCs in CO2 equivalents
The HFC phase down targets are expressed in CO2 equivalents [= GWP x kg] and are not refrigerant-specific (the legislation only imposes a ban in specific cases, such as the ban on R-404A for refrigeration applications). This allows the market the flexibility to use different types of HFCs and measures: changing to a lower GWP refrigerant, lowering the refrigerant charge or a combination of both.
- Phase down scheme for NEW HFC gas, reused HFC gas is not subject to phase down scheme, therefore the total demand is above this line.
- Biggest cut in non-A/C markets (e.g. R-404A for refrigeration).
- Growth in use of R-32 as an alternative to R-410A.
- Keeping R-410A for new and servicing of VRF systems. Main R-410A reduction comes from small to medium split units switching to R-32.Phase down scheme for NEW HFC gas, reused HFC gas is not subject to phase down scheme, therefore the total demand is above this line.
- Biggest cut in non-A/C markets (e.g. R-404A for refrigeration).
- Growth in use of R-32 as an alternative to R-410A.
- Keeping R-410A for new and servicing of VRF systems. Main R-410A reduction comes from small to medium split units switching to R-32.
We are ahead of F-gas regulations
The environment has a special place in our heart, that’s why it plays a very important role in our corporate philosophy. We are a leader in environmental legislation and innovation because our products:
Use lower GWP refrigerants
- We offer a wide portfolio of residential and commercial systems using R-32
- Our refrigeration applications use R-410A, CO2 and hydrocarbon solutions
Have a reduced charge
- R-32 charges up to 30% less compared to R-410A
- Microchannel technology achieves up to 15% lower refrigerant charge
Reduce service and maintenance checks
- Our VRV and DX systems have low leakage rates (below the average 1%)
Our future HFC strategy
To meet the demands of the HVAC-R market in 2030, our current HFC action plan can help you:
Find the right refrigerant, for the right application
There is no ideal “one size fits all” refrigerant. That’s why we offer a range of refrigerants to help you find the best solution for your unit.
Achieve a sustainable lifecycle
We look beyond CO2 emissions to ensure the best lifetime efficiency.
Secure quotas
Our chemical division offers privileged access to quotas.
