2LA flammable refrigerants

The HVAC industry is beginning to transition to new refrigerants required by the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020, which gradually phases down the use of existing classes of refrigerants and establishes new requirements for the refrigerants used in air conditioners and heat pumps. The new class of refrigerants has a lower global warming potential than current ones. As part of this transition, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set transition dates for new equipment required to use new refrigerants, commonly referred to as A2Ls. Commercial air conditioners EPA is evaluating an extension of transition dates by one year only for Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems Residential and light commercial air conditioners and heat pumps manufactured after Jan. 1, 2025, must use the new refrigerant. The equipment manufactured prior to this date has a one-year grace period to be installed — a Jan. 1, 2026, installation deadline. For products that do not require field assembly, such as window air conditioning units, the rules establish the final date of sale as three years after the manufacture compliance date — a Jan. 1, 2028, sale deadline — without a compliance date for installation. EPA is evaluating an extension of transition dates by one year only for Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems with capacities of 65,000 BTU/h (19 kW) or more. Heat pump equipment Existing air conditioning and heat pump equipment is not subject to EPA regulations and can continue to be used through equipment end-of-life. Components used for servicing and repair also are not subject to EPA regulation. The supply of R-410A, R-134a, and other refrigerants to meet servicing needs will remain available for the foreseeable future even as overall production and imports decline through the middle of the next decade, as was the case in prior refrigerant transitions in the 1990s and early 2000s. How A2Ls are Different Each equipment manufacturer will have their own roll-out strategy and timeline All refrigerants are required to be classified by toxicity and flammability. A2Ls retain the same toxicity designation — non-toxic — as their predecessor (R-410A). However, the flammability has been reclassified as Class 2L (lower flammability), compared to Class 1 (no flame propagation) for R-410A. A2L refrigerants require redesign of the HVAC equipment. It is important that home builders actively begin to plan for the transition, and engage with their suppliers and installers to ensure an adequate pipeline of equipment in the upcoming months and to avoid potential bottlenecks, delays and last-minute change orders. Each equipment manufacturer will have their own roll-out strategy and timeline, but these changes are imminent and will happen over the coming months. Updating installation instructions To address the slight increase in flammability, equipment manufacturers are adding safety features to equipment, revising transportation and handling procedures, and updating installation instructions. Primary mitigation measures for the building include: Minimizing the risk of refrigerant leaks by requiring enhanced testing of refrigerant lines using both pressure and vacuum methods, requiring specific joint types, and requiring nail plates at framing members where lines running through, and Controlling the refrigerant concentration in the building in a potential leakage scenario to levels below the flammability limit. Leak detection sensor In many cases, equipment manufacturers will add a leak detection sensor installed in the air handler unit and programmed to activate the main fan to quickly circulate the air throughout the home to reduce refrigerant concentration. Other safety strategies can include the use of shut-off valves also activated by leak sensors Other safety strategies can include the use of shut-off valves also activated by leak sensors and designed to limit the quantity of the refrigerant that can leak out. For systems without leak detection sensors, the quantity of the refrigerant in the system, including the lines, will need to be sized more carefully such that a refrigerant leak into the smallest space (e.g., bathroom) directly served by the system would not exceed the established concentration limit. Fire-rated floor assemblies Additional documentation requirements include a permanent label on the equipment listing the company that installed the system and the weight of the installed refrigerant. Although there are several A2L refrigerants approved for use, the primary two refrigerants that you should expect in the market are R-32 and R-454B. Each equipment manufacturer will specify which refrigerant is used for their equipment. For multifamily buildings where refrigerant lines penetrate fire-rated floor assemblies, the building code may require that the refrigerant lines be placed in a fire-rated shaft or other fire safety measures be implemented. Developers should coordinate designs with their MEP firms. The shaft requirements can impact plan layouts and architectural designs. Centrally Ducted System vs. Mini Splits Different mitigation strategies will be specified for centrally ducted systems vs. mini splits Different mitigation strategies will be specified for centrally ducted systems vs. mini splits. Again, builders should reach out to their vendors for information and follow installation instructions to make sure all required safety measures are implemented so that concentration limits are not exceeded in case of a refrigerant leak. Software programs for sizing equipment and for energy modeling should use updated specifications for the new equipment with A2L refrigerants. What Should Home Builders Do Right Now Have a transition plan in place that achieves the following goals: Coordinate a switch-over timeline with vendors and installers. Ensure a sufficient pipeline of existing equipment before the switch-over and new equipment after the switch-over (old and new equipment will not be compatible unless specifically stated by the manufacturer). Coordinate with their mechanical system designer (for multifamily buildings, evaluate if a fire-rated shaft is required). Make sure the HVAC contractor is knowledgeable on the new installation requirements and safety measures for the specific equipment that will be installed in their homes. Ensure that installation instructions are available from the manufacturer for the specific units to be installed in the homes. Coordinate between all involved parties throughout the process and establish a direct feedback loop. Information about the status of building codes regarding A2L refrigerants in each state can be found using this interactive map from the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI).

To address growing concerns about climate change and environmental sustainability, regulatory bodies, consumers and other stakeholders have placed an increased focus on the reduction of potent greenhouse gas emissions, such as traditional hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants, to the atmosphere. In the U.S., several states have introduced measures curtailing the use of these products, including the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB’s) global warming potential (GWP) limit of 750, effective Jan. 1, 2023, for HVAC/R products and Jan. 1, 2024, for chillers, as well as additional requirements for refrigeration systems that went into effect in 2021.  lower-GWP refrigerant alternatives In response to these state regulations, manufacturers have been developing systems to use lower-GWP refrigerant alternatives. However, the alternatives to traditional HVAC/R refrigerants typically exhibit more flammable properties than refrigerants designated by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) as A1. A2L classification of refrigerants A2Ls are much more difficult to ignite and less flammable than A3 hydrocarbon refrigerants, such as propane The air conditioning and refrigeration industry has developed the A2L classification of refrigerants to overcome the challenges of using lower-GWP refrigerants. While having slightly higher flammability characteristics as compared to traditional A1 refrigerants, A2Ls are much more difficult to ignite and less flammable than A3 hydrocarbon refrigerants, such as propane. A bi-national (U.S. and Canada) consensus group was formed to update the product safety and application standards to allow for the safe use of these more environmentally friendly refrigerants within HVAC/R systems. Safety requirements UL 60335-2-40, the Standard for Household and Similar Electrical Appliances — Safety — Part 2-40: Particular Requirements for Electrical Heat Pumps, Air-Conditioners and Dehumidifiers, is a binational (U.S. and Canada) Standard based on the international IEC 60335-2-40 standard. UL 60335-2-40 establishes more conservative safety requirements than the IEC standard to reflect product usage in the North American market. Refrigerant leakage One of the risks associated with household electrical heat pumps, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers is refrigerant leakage. A refrigerant leak detection system that senses a loss of refrigerant pressure, a critical component in mitigating this risk, is required for all systems in the occupied space exceeding a prescribed refrigerant charge limit. Refrigerant leak detection systems are required to have both sensors and control logic electronics that activate the evaporator fan and use circulated air to quickly disperse and dilute refrigerant in the event of a leak to prevent the formation of refrigerant concentrations. UL 60335-2-40 UL 60335-2-40 requires appliances to be free of potential internal ignition sources to mitigate the risk of fire due to a leak UL 60335-2-40 also requires that refrigerant charge limits be based on the minimum occupied volume of the room where the equipment is expected to be used. This charge limit requirement also includes a safety factor of 4 to help ensure any leaked refrigerant is diluted to well below the lower flammability limit (LFL) based on room size. In addition, UL 60335-2-40 requires appliances to be free of potential internal ignition sources to mitigate the risk of fire due to a leak. UL 60335-2-40, fourth edition, updates On Dec. 15, 2022, UL Standards & Engagement published the fourth edition of UL 60335-2-40. Among other updates, the fourth edition refined requirements for leak detection systems to accommodate various methods, increase robustness and reliability, and account for deviation and drift over the system life cycle. Key updates for refrigeration detection systems Annex LL Annex LL is a normative element in UL 60335-2-40, pertinent to refrigerant detection systems for flammable refrigerants. The fourth edition contains a rewritten Annex LL that no longer references IEC 66079-29-1 for the conformity of flammable gas detectors. It establishes that when the refrigerant detection system senses a concentration of refrigerant gas that is 25% of the lower flammability limit (LFL) for that gas, the refrigerant detection system must initiate a system response to mitigate the potential hazard, as required by Clause 22 and Annex GG.  Carbon monoxide detector sensor requirements When the refrigerant detection system incorporates a group controller, it must comply with Annex 101.DVN When the refrigerant detection system incorporates a group controller, it must also comply with the requirements of Annex 101.DVN for informational technology equipment (ITE) cooling appliances. The fourth edition Annex LL also contains rewritten test methods based on current North American carbon monoxide detector sensor requirements, as specified in UL 2075, the Standard for Gas and Vapor Detectors and Sensors. Annex 101.DVM An informative Annex 101.DVM, a supplement to Annex LL, was revised to include requirements for deviation and drift over the lifetime of the refrigerant sensor. Annex 101.DVM now describes examples of acceptable paths of compliance for providing data and evidence substantiating the claimed life of a refrigerant sensor, as required by Clauses LL.7.2.DV of Annex LL.DV. Further updates to UL 60335-2-40 Requirements specified in the fourth edition of UL 60335-2-40 needed to be published by the end of 2022 to be included in the 2024 building code. At that time, however, discussions about refrigerant detection system requirements were not yet complete. Annex 101.DVM was added as informative to the fourth edition, but requirements were agreed upon as part of the review for Amendment 1 to the fourth edition of UL 60335-2-40. UL 60335-2-40, fourth edition, Certification Requirement Decisions The following requirements were published for Public Review on Feb. 24, 2023, and incorporated in the Certification Requirement Decisions (CRDs) published in early March 2023: UL 60335-2-40 as a replacement for Annex LL (dated March 8, 2023) UL 60335-2-89 as a replacement for Annex 101.DVP (dated Feb. 28, 2023) Additional clarification provided in CRDs was published in October 2023 for: UL 60335-2-40 as a replacement for Annex LL (dated Oct. 1, 2023) UL 60335-2-89 as a replacement for Annex 101.DVP (dated Oct. 9, 2023) The following updates were made between March and October 2023: 1) Clarification that all sequential tests do not need to be repeated for any alternate constructions or additional models (LL.1.3DV/101.DVP.1.3DV). 2) Specification that a longer time (60 minutes instead of five minutes) is allowed for the reaction to occur during specific tests: LL.7.2.1.2DV, item b LL.7.2.1.3DV, item b/101.DVP.7.2.1.2DV, item b 101.DVP.7.2.1.3DV, item b Importance of CRDs to system safety and reliability Because the third edition referenced IEC 60070-29-1, several points did not align with the UL 60335 The CRDs are crucial to enhancing the safety and reliability of refrigerant leak detection systems. Because the third edition referenced IEC 60070-29-1, several points did not align with the UL 60335 appliance Standard. Clearly defining the clean air test gas concentration parameters for all testing in LL2 without needing to reference Annex G improves the Standard’s usability.  Sensor requirement Defining the requirement that a sensor must be able to test a concentration of 25% of the LFL helps reduce the fire risk due to refrigerant leaks. Introducing drift and deviation allowances in LL7 helps evaluate the system’s reliability over its lifetime. Moreover, the CRDs incorporate what the working group and manufacturers have learned about this new technology to make UL 60335-2-40 a more robust and reliable Standard. Detection, mitigation, identification, and training Jim Dominik, managing member of Polaris Public Safety Solutions, shared his perspective on the CRDs’ importance, “The fire service has been concerned about A2L usage, and we worked hard to be part of the team and implement a safe solution." "Since the beginning, the fire service has asked for detection, mitigation, identification, and training. Lessening anything that could cause a reduction in detection and mitigation would decrease the overall safe operation of the equipment." Critical safety features "To date, we have no installed equipment, and I feel reducing any of the safety features would be concerning." "The current requirements proposed by UL Standards & Engagement in the latest Certification Requirement Decision following current UL Standards that have been proven to be safe is critical to the long-term safety of the equipment and potentially the people and environment.”

DRI-STEEM Corporation (DriSteem), the pioneering manufacturer of humidity control, evaporative cooling, and water treatment products, is pleased to announce that Eric Skare has joined DriSteem as Senior Product Manager. Eric will oversee DriSteem’s Adiatec® evaporative cooling and humidification systems, which include high-pressure atomization and ultrasonic technologies. He will also manage DriSteem reverse osmosis water treatment systems and pre-treatment solutions. Compliance to the DriSteem team Prior to joining DriSteem, Eric worked as a Product Manager at Boveda Inc., and Uponor, Inc. He brings years of experience with new product development, specification management, and regulatory compliance to the DriSteem team. "We are delighted to announce that Eric has joined our team," said Jennifer Montville, Director of Marketing at DriSteem. "His experience will be instrumental in supporting and enhancing our lineup of adiabatic and water treatment products.  We are thrilled to have him on board."

Johnson Controls, the global pioneer for smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, has launched a brand-new suite of redesigned, innovative, and environmentally friendly residential products that have been optimized for use with the low-GWP refrigerant R-454B, with delivery dates this quarter.   “Designing future-ready technologies to meet upcoming standards reflects our overall commitment to driving sustainability while reducing install time and maintenance costs for our customers,” said David Budzinski, president, residential and light commercial, global products at Johnson Controls. “Working together with our customers, partners and suppliers, we are excited to deliver a planned refresh of our residential and light commercial portfolio, staying ahead of upcoming regulations. We added differentiated features and simplified the overall user experience of our products.” Residential portfolio of heat pumps Johnson Controls has long been a champion of the transition to lower-GWP refrigerants and is one of the first in the market to have launched more than 70% of their product portfolio, preceding the 2025 regulatory shift by more than half a year. The launch includes a majority of the company's residential portfolio of heat pumps, air conditioners, air handler units, and indoor evaporator coils. Johnson Controls has long been a champion of the transition to lower-GWP refrigerants “The entire portfolio has been redesigned with a new modern color scheme and enhanced features that address increased efficiency, improved serviceability, and installation with a significant focus on increased ratings for customers incentivized by federal rebates and tax credits,” stated Sophia Bellos, vice president of product management for residential and light commercial systems at Johnson Controls. “I am especially excited that our new heat pump portfolio will qualify customers for increased tax credits and rebates, not only when paired with our air handlers but also with our furnaces, regardless of whether they are new or retrofit systems.” Latest technology in refrigerants Among the products launched are Johnson Controls entry, mid- and high-efficiency heat pumps, as well as the entry and mid-tier air conditioners. These new systems feature the latest technology in refrigerants with low GWP. These products have improved features, making them faster to install and service, and smaller form factors for ease of stocking and installation, and they have been designed to ensure qualified tax credit and rebate ratings across multiple-use applications. The newly launched air handler portfolio features higher-efficiency motors for improved energy savings and comfort, similar to our coil portfolio. To ensure the safety of our customers, a refrigerant leak detection sensor is now available in a multi-position form factor that allows customers to conserve inventory space by stocking one model. R-454B refrigerant Final rule calls for a 700-GWP limit for most new comfort cooling equipment, starting January 1, 2025 The American Innovation and Manufacturing Act mandates an 85% reduction in hydrofluorocarbon gases by 2036. For stationary air conditioning and heat pumps, the final rule calls for a 700-GWP limit for most new comfort cooling equipment, starting January 1, 2025.  The R-454B refrigerant chosen by Johnson Controls for residential and commercial ducted systems equipment has a GWP rating of 466, well below the requirement and nearly an 80% reduction from conventional refrigerants. Next-generation refrigerant options Johnson Controls developed a proactive strategy to ensure customers can not only stay ahead of regulations but also make the transition as simple as possible. It has spent years testing, evaluating, and implementing a variety of next-generation refrigerant options capable of meeting future demands to deliver a low-carbon footprint with high-performance outcomes across its suite of products.  Every refrigerant Johnson Controls selects is optimized to be safe, reliable, efficient, and affordable. The refrigerants used in multiple Johnson Controls products have among the lowest GWP on the market.

Danfoss is supporting the transition to low GWP refrigerants with its new DST G series of A2L refrigerant detection sensors, which feature a revolutionary patented inverted design.  DST G series As HFC phasedown continues and A2L refrigerants become more widely adopted, the G series of sensors allows building owners and HVAC/R manufacturers to implement these new refrigerants with confidence. Thermal conductivity provides the best solution for A2L gas sensing. Built with thermal conductivity technology, the DST G series excels in rapid and accurate leak detection, providing the maximum level of safety for use with A2L refrigerants.  thermal conductivity technology DST G series has undergone rigorous testing in high-humidity environments and under varying temperatures “The key advantage of building the DST G series using thermal conductivity technology, is that it allows the sensor to accurately re-calibrate itself under a wide range of operating conditions making it the best choice for harsh environments,” explains Laís Miranda de Oliveira, Product Manager at Danfoss Sensing Solutions.The DST G series has undergone rigorous testing in high-humidity environments and under varying temperatures, and the sensors showed little or no signs of damage. Automated Self Calibration (ASC) The sensors also provide a series of self-test diagnostics to monitor sensor health and warn if they’re outside the operation range. The sensors’ Automated Self Calibration (ASC) adjusts the measurement over time to remove minor drifts and delivers ~0% Lower Flammability Limit (LFL) level in clean air signal. built-in limit supervision self-test diagnostic To detect drifts greater than the ASC can correct, the sensors include a built-in limit supervision self-test diagnostic that continuously monitors the measurements. Since the sensors self-calibrate, the error margin is smaller than if it needed to be calibrated by a third party.  “This combination of robustness and accurate calibration makes for an effective technology for detecting A2L gas leaks. And by implementing the inverted sensor design, we’ve been able to further increase the DST G series sensors’ accuracy,” says Laís Miranda de Oliveira. The inverted design ensures optimal sensor protection Another key feature of the DST G series is the unique inverted design Another key feature of the DST G series is the unique inverted design. This design protects the sensors in harsh environments, shielding them from dust, oil, and water spray, and during pressurized cleaning and maintenance in commercial refrigeration units. All exposed materials are also UV-protected, meaning coils can be cleaned with UV light without damaging the sensor resulting in better indoor air quality for HVAC units.  HVAC and commercial refrigerant applications The sensors support five different A2L refrigerants and are designed for both HVAC applications (the DST G54B for R454B and DST GR32 for R32 refrigerants) and commercial refrigeration applications (the DST G54A for R454A, the DST G54C for R454C and the DST G55A for R455A refrigerant). Additional refrigerants are also available upon request. The DST G series of A2L refrigerant detection sensors are the only first step on Danfoss’ gas sensing journey. More low-GWP refrigerant gas-sensing solutions With the introduction of the DST G series sensors and the ongoing expansion of the gas sensing platform to be used in the future with other (A3 and CO2) refrigerants, Danfoss has positioned itself as a trustworthy partner for HVAC/R system builders navigating the gas sensing frontier.Mark Otten, Segment Manager for Cooling and Heating at Danfoss Sensing Solutions, affirms, “The next step will take us to Monterrey, Mexico, where we’re establishing a manufacturing footprint at our Danfoss campus." reduced transport emissions Mark Otten adds, "This location places us in proximity to our customers and will make it easier for us to partner with them to develop new gas-sensing technologies. Our local presence will also improve speed-to-market and lead times while reducing transport emissions, so we can effectively meet the market’s increasing demand for sensor technology and support our customers’ growth.”

Danfoss, a global pioneer in climate and energy solutions, has joined forces with Enersponse, a distributed energy resource (DER) management company based in California, to introduce cutting-edge services for American supermarkets.This collaboration aims to enhance energy flexibility in HVAC and refrigeration systems by unlocking benefits for the food retail sector with the Automated Demand Response (Auto-DR) solution. Energy efficiency The food retail industry is transforming through digitalization and sustainability is a key phase of this journey. To foster the green transition, Danfoss and Enersponse will collaborate to ensure food retailers achieve grid stability, while reaping financial rewards automatically, via Auto-DR. By reducing energy usage when electricity demand exceeds supply, Auto-DR helps ensure the lights stay on and the food stays fresh, all while reducing energy use during peak periods which often correlates with high emission periods.Enersponse’s DERMS Platform will be seamlessly integrated into Danfoss Alsense®, an Internet of Things (IoT) food retail services cloud solution that tracks refrigeration asset performance, allowing retail managers to easily respond to alarms, ensure 24/7 monitoring of food conditions, and reduce energy consumption. Partnership milestone "We maintain an unwavering commitment to seeking out premier building control partners, enhancing the impact of our energy initiatives," explained James McPhail, the visionary CEO and founder of Enersponse. "Being at the forefront of our industry with unmatched technology, collaborating with a company like Danfoss was an obvious choice. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both organizations, delivering not only excitement but also substantial benefits to their customers such as tailored demand response events, the generation of a passive income all while maintaining adherence to safety standards to ensure perishable foods remain well within the designated safe temperature zones and a multitude of other advantages."

Hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) and so-called “natural” refrigerants have coexisted for more than two decades, with each serving the specific needs of the HVACR industry. However, over the past several years, the proverbial aisle has formed, with pro-HFO voices on one side and “natural” advocates on the other. EU F-gas regulations The debate is getting more “ink” these days, partly due to advances in proposed EU F-gas regulations as well as the acceleration of global decarbonization initiatives. In addition, scientists and industry leaders have become more vocal in setting the record straight about HFO refrigerants so that everyone from OEMs, contractors, and HVAC shop owners to facility operators, and retail managers can make informed decisions concerning system upgrades and replacements. misconceptions about “natural” refrigerants It is an opportune time for members of the industry to understand some of the misconceptions about “naturals” As many parts of the world enter air conditioning season, an increasing number of people will be faced with these decisions, making now an opportune time for members of the industry to understand some of the misconceptions about “naturals” and how these refrigerants stack up to the new-generation HFOs. To start, it’s good to have a basic definition of each. “Natural” refrigerants are simply “rebranded” industrial gases. They include hydrocarbons, sulfur dioxide, ammonia, and carbon dioxide (CO2). CFC and HCFC refrigerants Introduced more than a century ago, “natural” was broadly used early on, until the common use of ammonia, sulfur dioxide, and CO2 raised concerns over toxicity, safety, and efficiency.  As early as the 1930s, science introduced replacements, in the form of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) and hydrochlorofluorocarbon  (HCFC) refrigerants. HFCs and HFOs HFOand HFO blends sit at the intersection of performance and sustainability, offering critical solutions Next came hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which offered zero ozone depletion potential (ODP). HFCs were followed by HFOs, the newest generation of refrigerants which also have zero ODP and offer stellar performance properties and significantly lower global warming potential (GWP).  HFOand HFO blends, which have been in use for several years in new equipment and retrofits, sit at the intersection of performance and sustainability, offering critical solutions for decarbonization, circularity, safety, and a business’s bottom line. Making Decisions: Free of Misconceptions There is inaccurate information circulating today that can make it challenging to compare the benefits of HFOs and “natural” refrigerants. Here are six common misconceptions I hear and discuss frequently. Misconception 1: The choice you face is going with either a synthetic or a natural refrigerant. All refrigerants, including those marketed as “naturals” are synthetic. While it’s true that small amounts of ammonia and hydrocarbon molecules can be detected in our environment, refrigerant-grade products such as R-717 (ammonia), R-290 (propane), and other “naturals” are produced through industrial processes.  Like HFOs, their production requires energy and feedstock consumption, purification, packaging, warehousing, and transport. It’s also important to consider how green the production process is. The century-old ammonia production process, for example, consumes a significant amount of energy and results in an enormous carbon footprint. Misconception 2: All the industry's diverse application requirements can be met by "natural" refrigerants. HFOs, born in chemistry and their adaptability offer a greater capability to meet changing needs Through its evolution, the HVACR industry has become highly complex and taken on an untold number of applications. From home and mobile air conditioning to ice rinks and grocery superstores to refrigerated warehouses and transport, each application requires unique refrigerant properties. “Naturals” can meet some of the demand. But HFOs, born in chemistry and its adaptability offer a greater capability to meet changing needs driven by continual innovations in HVACR equipment and global sustainability requirements.  Misconception 3: If you want a future-proof solution, “naturals” are the only option. The fact is, nothing is futureproof and we should all be grateful because this means even the best solutions today can get better for the demands of tomorrow. This is certainly true for HFOs. “Natural” refrigerants, however, were first adopted more than 100 years ago, then broadly abandoned due to industry innovation as well as concerns over safety, energy consumption, and other factors. HFOs, on the other hand, solve many of these issues and support several sustainability megatrends, including decarbonization and circularity. Misconception 4: "Natural" refrigerants have an unlimited supply. However, HFOs are manufactured, which can result in shortages. HFO refrigerants offer a secure and reliable supply chain for numerous HVACR applications The supply chain of HFO refrigerants is extremely strong and positioned to support the global A2L transition. More readily available than “natural,” HFO refrigerants offer a secure and reliable supply chain for numerous HVACR applications. In addition, there’s a much heartier pool of technicians trained to service HFO systems than there is for “naturals”, a critical need, given current workforce shortages.  Misconception 5: "Naturals" support circularity commitments much better than chemically based HFOs. HFOs, unlike many “naturals,” are recovered, reclaimed, and reused supporting maximum resource efficiency, minimal waste, and lower emissions. HFOs are critical to advancing circularity across the many industries they touch and create a path to decarbonization.  Misconception 6: We should avoid HFOs classified as A2Ls because their flammability makes them unsafe. All flammable refrigerants are not alike. A2Ls, for example, are mildly flammable compared with highly flammable(A3) hydrocarbons. HFOs are reliable, have undergone rigorous regulatory approval processes, and are considered safe for their intended uses. Lower-flammability A2L HFOs that are commercially available and OEM-approved are about four times less likely to form flammable concentrations during an accidental leak than A3 alternatives, such as propane and butane. Commonly used HFO blends are also more difficult to ignite. Moreover, hydrocarbon applications are far more restricted, due to allowable charge sizes and building codes.  informed decisions “Natural” refrigerants have a place alongside HFOs, however cannot measure up to the innovation of HFOs By replacing inaccurate information about HFOs and “naturals” with facts, shop owners, contractors, and technicians can help customers make informed decisions for replacing systems at the end of life, as well as during new construction and installations. While it’s true that “natural” refrigerants have a place alongside HFOs in the current HVACR industry, they cannot measure up to the innovation of HFOs.  safety, performance, climate impact, and TCO demands HFO refrigerants will continue to meet a growing list of demands such as safety, performance, climate impact, and total cost of ownership by striking an optimal balance of these and other desired properties. While “naturals” stagnate, we can expect to see HFOs continue to influence the future of refrigerants as well as the HVACR applications that depend on them. 

Although the European Union is several steps ahead in the transition away from hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants, members of the HVACR industry in other countries currently find themselves in a more urgent situation when it comes to stepping down HFCs and stepping up use of new-generation hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerants and emerging A2Ls. EPA’s AIM Act This is especially true in the U.S., where 2024 kicked off with an additional 30% reduction in HFC production and consumption under the EPA’s American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. With every phasedown comes a decreasing supply. And with every passing year, more HFC-charged equipment reaches the end of its lifecycle—or at least requires repair.  Given the regulatory outlook, supply trajectories, global sustainability imperatives, and increased customer demand for businesses to be environmentally responsible, HVACR shops can no longer be “thinking about” how they will transition. It’s time to start engaging in activities to help ensure your business transitions as smoothly as possible.  Transcritical CO2 systems Many business advantages come with incorporating HFOs—especially A2Ls—into your portfolio It’s also important to understand that the transition is not just about “following rules.” Many business advantages come with incorporating HFOs—especially A2Ls—into your portfolio. Consider how proactively leveraging these advantages can support your business goals and growth. A2Ls, which include HFOs and HFO-blend refrigerants, offer similar operating characteristics to legacy refrigerants and a safer profile than ammonia and hydrocarbon refrigerants, and they are more energy efficient than R-410A and transcritical CO2 systems. Not only can A2Ls protect our planet because of their lower global warming potential (GWP) and ability to increase system efficiency, but they can also lower the operating cost throughout the lifecycle of refrigeration equipment. The sooner you can put these advantages to work, the stronger your position among customers will be—whether they are driven by environmental concerns, cost savings, better performance, safe environments, or all the above. Five key steps for refrigeration transition   So, with all this motivation behind you, how do you get started? Here are five key steps you can take to facilitate the refrigeration transition. Help ensure refrigerant supply by practicing the “Three Rs.” The Three Rs, also known as a refrigerant management plan, help ensure there is enough HFC supply to meet your needs as well as those of the industry. As HFC production and consumption phasedowns continue—resulting in reduced supply availability for servicing existing equipment—this step becomes increasingly critical. Consistently follow a process of refrigerant recovery, recycling, and reclamation. When servicing equipment, or taking it out of use, be sure to recover every possible bit of the refrigerant. Then recycle it for reuse or send it to a certified reclaimer to be reprocessed and reintroduced into the supply stream as refrigerant that meets all virgin purity specifications. Following a solid refrigerant management plan will also support your circularity and sustainability goals. Educate yourself on A2Ls. Learning about A2Ls means becoming knowledgeable about the many aspects driving their global adoption. By understanding their benefits over legacy refrigerants, differences in how they are used, safety considerations, and which OEMs are adopting them, you will be able to properly guide your technicians and customers, as well as outline a business strategy for introducing A2L equipment into your offerings. This knowledge becomes increasingly valuable as the world confronts climate challenges more aggressively than ever—as evidenced by the accelerated adoption of A2L refrigerants in North and South America, and their wide availability in Europe and Japan. Moreover, A2Ls are expected to see broad adoption in the U.S. in the near future, as more states amend building codes and standards to allow their use.  Be loyal to training. You should consider training for you and your technicians to be a part of your business’s DNA. Whether we’re talking about mildly flammable A2Ls or other HFOs or HFCs, staying current and keeping your technicians trained is highly important. Training is a top priority for ensuring safe handling, optimal equipment performance, and quality work that supports the integrity of our industry. In fact, there’s the potential for authorities to make it mandatory. But whether training is voluntary or mandatory, contractors should call on companies such as Chemours and industry associations that offer programs that train “the trainer” and the technicians.   Be prepared to communicate with your customers. Steps two and three, education and training, will give you a leg up when it comes time to have the “repair, retrofit, or replace” conversation with a customer. When this moment is imminent, make sure you’re prepared to have the discussion in a way that gives your customers all the options and helps them make an informed decision that is best for their home or business. Also, educate yourself on all the refrigerant options available today, so you can point out the advantages of one over another. These should include energy savings, environmental benefits, and performance attributes, plus the cost of purchasing new equipment or retrofitting existing equipment compared to continual repairs. Consistently use your trusted supplier. As HFCs are phased down, there will be a greater incentive for them to enter regions illegally. In addition to thwarting environmental goals, illegal refrigerants typically have poor quality makes them unsafe and inefficient for use. The best way to protect your crews, customers, and business is to continue to use your trusted supplier every time. Also stay away from the temptation of “too good to be true” prices, as these can be tied to counterfeit or illegal refrigerants. Reasonable transition Remember that phasedowns like those being implemented through the AIM Act have been structured to support a workable, reasonable transition. So, while there is a need to put your plans in motion, there is no need for panic.  You can ensure yourself of a smooth transition and reap the benefits of it by committing to starting these five steps now and continuing them consistently throughout the year. If everyone in the industry does their part, we can all support businesses, customers, and the planet.

Circularity. Some may call it a “hot topic.” But in reality, the concept and practice of circularity is here to stay, indefinitely, for the simple reason that the sustainability of our planet depends on it. Whatever type of product you sell, “widget” you manufacture, or service you provide, achieving circularity, that is, putting practices in place so that materials remain in circulation and never become waste is finding its way onto the priority list of every business. Maximizing resource efficiency For many industries, including HVACR, circularity has become more than a demonstration of responsibility to our planet.  Maximizing resource efficiency is essential for the strength of our industry and the businesses that support it. It drives everything from lower energy consumption and better budget strategies to supply chain resilience and consumer preference.  F-gas refrigerants Global efforts to reduce the use of HFC refrigerants, replacing them with lower-GWP HFOs Unlike industrial gases such as hydrocarbons or carbon dioxide, new-generation F-gas refrigerants represent a significant opportunity to advance circularity initiatives, since they can be recovered, recycled, and reclaimed. Moreover, many of these practices, what I call the “Three Rs” of refrigerant management are underway. This is due largely to global efforts to reduce the use of Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants, replacing them with lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs). refrigerant management program Although HFC production and consumption phasedowns are happening at different stages worldwide, they’re creating a gap between supply and what is needed to operate and service existing equipment. This, coupled with the elevated focus on circularity, makes it increasingly critical for companies at every level of the HVACR industry to employ a strong refrigerant management program.  Understanding the Three Rs Recovered refrigerant that is not recycled should go to a certified reclaimer to be reprocessed and reintroduced The Three Rs of refrigerant management each contribute differently to your business and sustainability goals. First, we have recovery, which means taking refrigerant out of a system and moving it into a separate container. Next is recycling, achieved by putting refrigerant back into the system after it is recovered, often after some minor “clean up” or filtering to reduce contamination.  Perhaps the most important step of the three is reclamation. Recovered refrigerant that is not recycled should go to a certified reclaimer to be reprocessed and reintroduced into the supply stream as a refrigerant that meets all virgin purity specifications. unprecedented demand for HFCs As phasedowns continue, it will become even more important for contractors to regain every possible pound of refrigerant during equipment maintenance and at the end of life. We’re nearing a critical point because phasedowns are causing unprecedented demand for HFCs. reclaimed product Stepping up reuse and reclamation efforts to ensure an adequate supply of certified products For the first time, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are depending on reclaimed products to meet some regional regulatory criteria. Plus, the reclaimed product is needed for service applications. In addition, stepping up reuse and reclamation efforts to ensure an adequate supply of certified products can help deter illegal refrigerant trading, which can lead to a whole host of other economic and safety issues.  Be sure you’re ready for recovery Given the increase in recovery and reclamation efforts, it’s advisable to refresh your contractor and technician training and make sure proper recovery machines are in place. This applies to HFCs as well as new-generation, mildly flammable A2L refrigerants, which are finding greater use as lower-GWP replacements. Best practices and training resources are available from Chemours at opteon.com, for example. contractor and technician training Training should cover topics including: Properties, use, safety, and proper handling during recovery and reclamation A2L flammability Ensuring you have properly rated recovery machines Retrofits Regulatory updates optimal equipment performance and safety Ensuring your teams are properly trained and have the correct equipment to practice the Three Rs is imperative Ensuring your teams are properly trained and have the correct equipment to practice the Three Rs is imperative for maintaining the integrity of the product and preventing it from leaking into the environment. Moreover, this will support optimal equipment performance and safety for technicians and end users.  Collaboration-the bigger picture of circularity As critical as proper and consistent refrigerant management programs are, they comprise just one component of achieving circularity. Collaboration must occur all along the value chain. Chemours is seeing increased use of our Opteon™ HFO/HFO-blend refrigerants, due to their criticality in the industry’s transition to significantly lower-GWP solutions. resource efficiency We create sustainable pathways to circularity and support proper reclamation, recycling, and reuse of all our refrigerants Consequently, HFOs have tremendous value in the opportunity they offer to advance circularity through optimal resource efficiency. Responsible manufacturing that works to reduce our carbon emissions, waste, and use of resources such as water and energy is paramount to Chemours. As a refrigerant innovator and manufacturer, we create sustainable pathways to circularity and support proper reclamation, recycling, and reuse of all our refrigerants. a healthier, wholly sustainable planet Without question, every individual and business in the HVACR industry, from major OEMs to “mom-and-pop” service contractors and everyone in between has the ability and responsibility to positively impact the environment. In addition to supporting a healthier, wholly sustainable planet for generations to come, fulfilling these responsibilities will also support the well-being and growth of your business. Select responsibly manufactured products. Strategize for greater circularity. And consistently and properly employ the Three Rs of refrigerant management. 

Revised building codes, based on model “I-Codes” developed by the International Code Council (ICC), are being widely adopted to allow A2L refrigerants to be used in comfort air conditioning applications. Previously, the use of A2L refrigerants, which are “mildly flammable,” was not allowed by building codes in force in 2021 and before because of safety concerns.   benefits of A2Ls However, the benefits of using A2Ls instead of refrigerants with higher global warming potential (GWP) have led to their acceptance as a replacement for hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in air conditioning applications. In response to the greater acceptance, driven by EPA refrigerant cutbacks, ICC has revised their building codes to permit the use of A2Ls, and local jurisdictions are in the process of adopting the revised building codes.  2024 I-Code changes Approved code changes in the 2024 IBC, IFC, and IMC allow commercial and residential use of A2L refrigerants The 2024 I-Code changes facilitate compliance with new refrigerant requirements and support producers and refrigerant appliance manufacturers already transitioning to lower-GWP solutions such as A2Ls.  Approved code changes in the 2024 International Building Code (IBC), International Fire Code (IFC), and International Mechanical Code (IMC) allow commercial and residential use of A2L refrigerants to replace refrigerants. The use of A2L impacts all three intertwined sets of building codes, which have been undergoing the three-year amendment process since 2021.  model codes and standards The International Code Council is a global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions that include product evaluation, accreditation, technology, training, and certification.  ICC is working with the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) to partner with the construction industry and to facilitate legislation to navigate this positive change.  The IBC, IMC, and IFC code revisions, all managed by ICC, have been approved; two finalized codes were published earlier in 2023 and the third is being released in November 2023. Building, mechanical, and Fire codes Building code revisions align with established safety standards regarding handling of A2L refrigerants The Building and Fire codes cover storage of A2Ls in a warehouse, while the Mechanical code covers requirements for installing equipment that uses A2Ls.   Building code revisions align with established safety standards regarding handling of A2L refrigerants, including ASHRAE 15 (Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems), UL 484 (Room Air Conditioners), UL/CSA 60335-2-40 (refrigerant detector requirements) and UL/CSA 60335-2-89 (enabling higher charge limits for flammable refrigerants).   requirements of ASHRAE 15 In buildings where HVAC machinery is installed, the code changes reflect requirements of ASHRAE 15, such as no equipment with open flames, elevated temperature limits in a room, and refrigerant detection requirements that trigger a mechanical ventilation system in case of a leak. Any piping that carries A2L must be labeled as flammable with a warning. Condensers and evaporators will need to carry the familiar triangular flammability labels and “risk of fire explosion” verbiage, all consistent with the ASHRAE 15 standard.   Diamond-shaped labeling An interlock requirement ensures ventilation processes are implemented in case “Diamond-shaped labeling must be displayed on packaging, storage, and containers so that anyone coming into a room knows there is flammable refrigerant there,” says Jim Cika, a director of technical resources for the International Code Council.   The codes cover safety requirements such as leak detection, ventilation requirements, and “flammable” labeling. An interlock requirement ensures ventilation processes are implemented in case of a detected leak of A2L gas.  storage and warehousing “The biggest concern is proper storage and warehousing,” says Jim Cika. “Due to flammability, there are significant additional storage requirements compared to HFC. Distributors have to be prepared with appropriate space and labeling requirements, especially when the materials are being stored in bulk and large quantities.”  A2L code provisions The code changes are required to enable builders to transition to A2L refrigerants ICC has created a website that provides relevant A2L code provisions including documents with specific wording related to code changes. Some states adopt the codes state-wide, while other “home-rule” states leave the adoption of the codes to the individual local jurisdictions. The code changes are required to enable builders to transition to A2L refrigerants.   new codes ICC has been publicizing the code changes with the help of a grassroots effort with AHRI. “We have put our code provisions out there so everybody knows what they need to be concerned about and to be ready for inspection,” says Cika. The new codes are coordinated with the EPA and the requirements of the SNAP programs. “We are all on the same page,” he says.  installation of new equipment After 2025, new equipment will no longer use HFCs but will need to use A2Ls or another low-GWP refrigerant Up to 25 lbs. of A2L refrigerant can be transported without any hazardous material restrictions; in effect, installers and contractors can transport A2L just as they did HFC.  Transitioning to A2L refrigerants involves the installation of new equipment since the legacy equipment that uses HFCs is not compatible with the new refrigerants. After 2025, new equipment will no longer use HFCs but will need to use A2Ls or another low-GWP refrigerant. transition to A2Ls Technicians will still be able to service and maintain existing equipment installed in the field for the rest of its useful life. With equipment using both types of refrigerant operating among various customers, technicians will need to be able to work on either type of system during the transition period.  Phased down and limited supplies of HFCs, as ordained by EPA regulations, will likely push installers and their customers to the newer technologies using A2Ls. 

The transition away from hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) as refrigerants for HVAC systems is well underway, and the process is accelerating. A 10% reduction in HFC production was mandated last year, and an additional 30% reduction is pending in January 2024. Meanwhile, a January 2025 deadline looms for the elimination of the manufacture of HVAC equipment that uses refrigerants with high potential for global warming (GWP).  impact of regulatory shifts The production step-downs ensure a constrained supply of legacy refrigerants in the near term and will likely result in pricing volatility. Increases in reclaim and recovery of HFCs from existing systems will balance some of the lower production, but it is impossible to measure or predict the impact exactly. Taken together, the regulatory shifts suggest a need for the industry to view its response more urgently.  lack of skilled labor You can’t go to an HVAC industry meeting without people talking about the lack of skilled labor" “People are starting to look at their footprint and the impact of these changes on the systems they have and how they handle their assets,” says Dr. Charles (Chuck) Allgood, Technical Fellow, The Chemours Company. “There is another constraint on industry, which is labor. You can’t go to an HVAC industry meeting without people talking about the lack of skilled labor, which is a big problem for the industry.”   Need for training The relevance of the refrigerant transition to the labor crisis is a need for employees and technicians to become trained to understand how to work with the new fluids. “A lot has to be done, and there are not a lot of people to do it,” says Allgood. “Contractors will have to service the entire installed base of legacy products while weighing the economic payback of replacing a system versus repairing it.”  awareness and education A customer should be actively managing their installed base of systems, and planning for a future transition “All the new stuff is a shift in technology, and we won’t be able to avoid it,” says Allgood.  “There is urgency across the board,” he adds. “We have been preaching awareness and education for a couple of years. Today there are real actions people can take.” In any case, a customer should be actively managing their installed base of systems, and planning for a future transition.   Hands-on training “There is a role for everyone to be playing in this transition,” says Allgood. Installers need to stay up to date on which equipment to recommend and how to install it. Hands-on training is required as each new system has new guidelines on installation and service.   flammability concerns Because newer refrigerants are mildly flammable, new leak detection is required, and new labeling is needed to highlight flammability concerns. Newer systems may not be as easy to learn and standardize. New building codes, based on industry safety standards, are being developed to ensure the safe usage of mildly flammable refrigerants. Previously a limiting factor on the use of A2L refrigerants, building codes are rapidly catching up with the changing market and should not be an obstacle in the future.  utilizing available resources Take time to take advantage of education resources offered by suppliers and manufacturers" Fortunately, there are many resources available. “Find suppliers who have been around and are giving back to the industry, such as pioneering compressor and system component manufacturers,” says Allgood. “They are here to help the industry move forward,” he advises. “Take time to take advantage of education resources offered by suppliers and manufacturers.”  training programs Chemours is among the suppliers providing training and resources. Chemours does not just manufacture refrigerants, the company also provides all the necessary technical information for them. They offer training programs and will go on on-site to offer educational training.  The company has developed simple calculators that can assess a customer’s carbon footprint and the impact of switching to a different refrigerant. “We are not just gas suppliers,” says Allgood. “We understand how customers operate and can guide them through decisions, including repair versus replace.”  design compatibility of refrigerants Manufacturers will be challenged to transition their equipment to compliant refrigerants Wholesale distributors need to stock the parts and tools in their warehouses. Manufacturers will be challenged to transition their equipment to compliant refrigerants. Chemours and other refrigerant manufacturers work closely with OEMs to ensure design compatibility of refrigerants to new equipment.   better energy performance An additional benefit of new solutions is that they also offer better energy performance that helps customers achieve environmental goals.  The AIM (American Innovation and Manufacturing) Act authorizes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to phase down the production and consumption of listed HFCs using a three-pronged approach covering consumption, production, and sector control. A second wave of rulemaking targeted the use of HFCs on a segment-by-segment basis, covering the timeline, global warming potential (GWP) limits, and addressing residential and commercial uses.   Challenges with contaminated gas Reclaimed gas is returned through a certified channel, recleaned, analyzed, and returned to the market A challenge to the reclaiming of existing HFC is contaminated gas, which cannot be disposed of cost-effectively. Reclaimed gas is returned through a certified channel, recleaned, analyzed, and returned to the market.  In contrast, recovered refrigerant can be transferred from one HVAC unit to another if both are owned by the same entity. A refrigerant cannot legally be recovered from one customer and then used in a system owned by a separate customer.   Coping with changing market Despite the urgency, there is some inertia in the fast-changing market, says Allgood. “There will always be pioneers and laggers,” he says. “There is an older demographic of technicians who may be resistant to change. But even if they are grumbling, they are getting on with the program. You can’t afford not to change. The industry is changing, so you can either keep up or fall behind.” 

The 486,805 square feet of exhibit space at AHR Expo 2023 in Atlanta provided clear evidence of how technology innovation in HVAC has accelerated in the last decade. Change and progress were everywhere among the 1,779 exhibitors, including 425 international exhibits. HVAC systems on display New electronic tools, cloud-based solutions, higher efficiency ratings, mini-split systems, new regulations, and new control strategies are driving product development enabling HVAC systems to deliver new solutions for customers. The 42,794 attendees at AHR Expo 2023 took notice. Heat pumps continue to lead product innovation, with many systems targeting better performance in colder climates. Combination systems that incorporate water heating along with ambient heating and cooling are also more common. solutions rather than equipment More than one exhibitor at AHR Expo 2023 noted that their emphasis this year is on “solutions rather than equipment.” It’s no longer just about products, or even about how things work. Rather, it’s about how they work together, and what problem(s) they can solve. Digital systems Digital systems are higher-profile this year than ever, somewhat supplanting the dominance of large equipment displays of years past. Instead of showing the big equipment, some exhibitors embraced schematics and animated simulations to demonstrate their operation on a video screen. Virtual displays also highlighted the operation of electronic control systems and other digital elements of the latest HVAC systems. Regulations, positive economic winds Regulations are ensuring a continuing demand for new equipment, and tax incentives are creating new business growth An economic slowdown is a possibility later in 2023, according to economists, but there was little concern evident at AHR Expo. Exemplifying an industry in the process of reinventing itself, the show reflected positive economic winds that will make HVAC more lucrative than ever in the coming years. Regulations are ensuring a continuing demand for new equipment, and tax incentives (such as those in the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act) are creating new business growth. Several exhibitors helpfully highlighted which of their products are eligible for tax incentives. new sustainable HVAC technologies As part of the broader trend of digital transformation in the built environment, HVAC is interfacing with building systems in new ways. As a major player in decarbonization, new HVAC technologies will lead the way to a more sustainable future. IAQ and decarbonization HVAC is also at the center of concerns about indoor air quality (IAQ) that follow a worldwide pandemic. “IAQ and decarbonization are the two most important trends in the built environment and will remain so for decades to come,” says David Budzinski, President, of Global Residential & Light Commercial at Johnson Controls.   electronic offerings An integration tool called NODE-Red enables various IoT sensors to be configured virtually into the system An example of electronic offerings at AHR was Delta Controls’ Red5 room controller which combines HVAC controls with Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, enabling more devices to interoperate and communicate in a building system. An integration tool called NODE-Red enables various IoT sensors to be configured virtually into the system. Also, the O3 sensor detects motion to assess the number of room occupants without using video (less intrusive); it also measures humidity, temperature, sound, light intensity, etc. AIM Act With Jan. 1, 2025, looming for compliance with the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act to phase out the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), there is still a lot of work to do. A proposed rule prohibits the manufacture of equipment containing HFCs by Jan. 1, 2025.   Energy transition “If all of our work together, whether manufacturers, contractors, or distributors, we can keep this conversation front and center and be ready for the transition,” says Brandon Marshall, Chemours’ North American Marketing Manager for Thermal & Specialized Solutions. “If we work together, we can navigate the change, and training is a key piece of it.” Best practices Becoming better informed enables everyone to understand and get comfortable with the solutions" Some new refrigerants are rated “mildly flammable.” Although this is a consideration, it should not be a major concern, says Marshall.  “Best practices can ensure you are managing the product safely, and becoming better informed enables everyone to understand and get comfortable with the solutions.” awareness Chemours conducts webinars, publishes documents, and makes updates available about the refrigerant transition. “We have to pay attention to the regulatory environment,” says Marshall. “Jan. 1, 2025, is coming fast.” More awareness is needed as the industry works toward the deadline. Contractors should also beware of low-quality or counterfeit refrigerant products, says Marshall. skilled labor shortage The skilled labor shortage in HVAC and other trades was another theme at AHR 2023. The labor shortage increases the need for training. “If you want to grow your business 20 to 30%, you should grow your people that much both the number of people and the knowledge of staff,” says Dan Clapper, Market Director, Interplay Learning. He adds that a company should devote up to 10% per week to training. Interplay Learning’s interactive, 3D simulation-based training platform is “as close to on-the-job training as you can get.” In effect, the simulations provide “before-the-job training.” Training investments Another training company, BDR (Business Development Resources), notes that their clients demonstrate 38% higher revenue per employee and 81% higher gross profit per employee. Revenue per service truck increases to $40,000 from the industry average of $12,000 after investments in training, says BDR, which provides in-person classes. Another exhibitor, XOi Technologies offers a smartphone app that provides expertise to lesser-trained HVAC installers. Their slogan is “We’re your journeyman on every job.” Journeyman is the brand name of the helpful app.

When a company is one of the largest beverage distributors in the U.S., it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve on everything that drives customer satisfaction, corporate responsibility, and a strong bottom line. Hensley Beverage Company did exactly that when it collaborated with Chemours and American Refrigeration Supplies, Inc. (ARS) to implement a system utilizing a new-generation A2L refrigerant, Chemours Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C).  Completed in 2023, the installation paves the way for companies throughout the commercial refrigeration industry to embrace refrigerant technologies that are both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable. Situation  Hensley Beverage, a Phoenix-based beverage wholesaler, supports a customer base of more than 9,000 accounts and more than 2,500 individual products, operating out of six locations across Arizona, USA. Hensley remains committed to maintaining exceptional product integrity, upholding its business legacy The company recently completed an acquisition that expanded its distribution footprint into New Mexico, making it one of the nation's largest family-owned and operated beverage distributors. As it grows, Hensley remains committed to maintaining exceptional product integrity, upholding its multi-generational family business legacy, and supporting various environmental objectives.  Upgrading refrigeration systems These factors, coupled with the current regulatory landscape (notably, the phasedown of legacy hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants), have put Hensley’s focus on ways to upgrade its refrigeration systems. For the past several years, Chemours, ARS, and Hensley have worked together to retrofit the distributor’s existing R-22 and R-404A systems to Opteon™ XP40 (R-449A), a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) blend offering zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and a significantly lower global warming potential (GWP) than legacy products. Phasedown of HFC refrigerants Hensley Beverage is proud to partner with Chemours, TBSI, and ARS to help develop innovative solutions" However, with the ongoing phasedown of HFC refrigerants under the U.S. EPA’s American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM), the teams began weighing the benefits of an even bolder upgrade.  “Hensley Beverage is proud to partner with Chemours, TBSI, and ARS to help develop innovative solutions and responsible business practices that drive sustainability in our community," said Alex Dunn, SVP of Operations, Hensley Beverage. Partnership and collaboration Alex Dunn adds, "These groundbreaking results are a culmination of partnership and collaboration. It is refreshing to work with three organizations that are this passionate about developing pioneering products that will help shape a better future for the communities we serve.” Solution  A mildly flammable refrigerant with an ASHRAE A2L safety classification, Opteon™ XL20 is designed for use in new equipment Even as Chemours, ARS, and Hensley continued to employ retrofit solutions in some areas strategically, they explored options that would put the company in a stronger position for the long term. Chemours recommended bringing Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C) into Hensley’s refrigeration plan. A mildly flammable refrigerant with an ASHRAE A2L safety classification, Opteon™ XL20 is designed for use in new equipment, so Hensley identified an old R-22 system near the end of its life that was ideal for replacement by a new system using Opteon™.  Opteon™ XL20 Opteon™ XL20 has been used for several years in Europe and is expected to become the new norm in the U.S. by 2026, based on the current direction provided by the EPA. Leveraging its experience in Europe, the Chemours team of technical service and business development resources is prepared to support end users as they consider trial installations using A2L refrigerants.  Opteon™ XL20 - The future of sustainable low- and medium-temperature refrigeration: GWP of 148 (a 96% reduction versus R-404A). Zero ODP. Enables much higher charge sizes than highly flammable A3 refrigerants. Is a close performance match to R-22 and R-404A. Offers the optimum balance of performance and environmental sustainability. Provides an easy, cost-effective alternative to legacy refrigerants and new equipment applications. Utilizes well-known technology for ease of service and maintenance. performance, efficiency, and sustainability “Hensley was an early adopter of Opteon™ XP40, retrofitting equipment to experience better environmental outcomes, as well as high performance in low- and medium-temperature applications. Experiencing these benefits of HFOs whet their appetite to ask, ‘What next?’," said Joe Martinko, President of Thermal and Specialized Solutions, Chemours. Joe Martinko adds, "With a strong dedication to supporting their communities and the environment, while operating an efficient and thriving business, Hensley is a company that pushes the envelope. Chemours was ready with our next-generationOpteon™ XL20, which will ensure they achieve maximum performance, operating efficiency, and sustainability." servicing and Installation Heatcraft and Copeland had the knowledge and experience of emerging A2L requirements The installation brought together additional resources from the HVACR industry, including Copeland and Heatcraft Refrigeration Products, two ARS manufacturing partners as well as Technical Building Services, Inc. (TBSI), the local HVAC service provider. As global HVACR technology pioneers helping customers achieve their sustainability, decarbonization, and regulatory compliance goals, Heatcraft and Copeland had the knowledge and experience of emerging A2L requirements and the capabilities to support the project. TBSI was selected as the contractor for installation and servicing. Time- and cost-efficient With the team assembled, Chemours took the head on the project, ensuring that the contractor, Hensley’s service personnel, and others involved were certified through the ESCO Institute’s A2L refrigerant training program, and answering any questions from the local authorities.  After safely recovering the R-22 for use in other Hensley systems, the team from TBSI started removing the existing Keg 6 equipment, hanging new evaporator coils, and running new refrigerant lines. Installation, evacuation, and charging procedures were very similar to the current refrigerants in use by industry, making for a time- and cost-efficient process. Climate technology Copeland has always been focused on not just setting the standard in climate solutions" “Copeland has always been focused on not just setting the standard in climate solutions with pioneering brands in compression, controls, software, and monitoring, but pioneering the evolution in this space. Our role in the system design and installation for Hensley was right in our wheelhouse," said Brian Schroeder, Engineering Manager, Refrigerants, Copeland. Brian Schroeder adds, "What we accomplished together demonstrates that by bringing together energy-efficient products,regulation-ready solutions, and expertise, we can revolutionize the next generation of climate technology for the better.” R-454C refrigerant “Our tools and gauges were already enabled for the R-454C refrigerant. The startup and charging of both systems went pretty smoothly," said Sergio Pelayo, Vice President of TBSI. Sergio Pelayo adds, "TBSI is proud to have participated in the project at Hensley and, by doing so, added to the variety of equipment we’ve worked on since founding our business in 1990. This was a great opportunity to grow our experience with A2Ls.” Copeland monitoring data  Copeland applied monitoring units to the systems that capture nearly two dozen data points every second To make sure the system performed as expected, Copeland applied monitoring units to the systems that capture nearly two dozen data points every second. The data has shown that the systems are running as designed. “We are thrilled with the results of the R-454C project with Hensley Beverage," said Bob Landi, Vice President and General Manager of Heatcraft Refrigeration Products. Bob Landi adds, "As we continue our journey toward new regulation compliance, this successful collaboration has been instrumental in leveraging Heatcraft’s new product design efforts, with A2L refrigerants being an important part of the mix. We are poised to head the industry and provide more customers like Hensley with cutting-edge solutions that drive their success.” Summary Influenced by upcoming regulatory changes and stronger organizational ESG commitments, the commercial refrigeration industry’s transition to lower GWP refrigerants is inevitable. Opteon™ refrigerants provide organizations with lower GWP options that can help extend the useful life of their systems, as well as new equipment options that enable decades of reliable operation. Moreover, these systems answer the consumer preference for businesses that utilize responsibly manufactured products and support a greener environment.  Hensley’s approach Hensley’s approach demonstrates an ideal way for companies to meet the needs of refrigerating their products while following the guidelines of the HFC phasedown. It’s important to assess where equipment is in its lifecycle and determine if it makes the most sense in terms of budget, performance needs, and corporate vision to 1) retrofit existing equipment for more efficient and sustainable operation or 2) replace it with A2L refrigerant technologies and products. 

When they are one of the largest beverage distributors in the U.S., it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve on everything that drives customer satisfaction, corporate responsibility, and a strong bottom line. Hensley Beverage Company did exactly that when it collaborated with Chemours and American Refrigeration Supplies, Inc. (ARS) to implement a system utilizing a new-generation A2L refrigerant, Chemours Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C). Completed in 2023, the installation paves the way for companies throughout the commercial refrigeration industry to embrace refrigerant technologies that are both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable. Situation The company recently ended an acquisition that grew its distribution footprint into New Mexico Hensley Beverage, a Phoenix-based beverage wholesaler, supports a customer base of more than 9,000 accounts and more than 2,500 individual products, operating out of six locations across Arizona.  The company recently completed an acquisition that expanded its distribution footprint into New Mexico, making it one of the largest family-owned and operated beverage distributors in the nation. As it grows, Hensley remains committed to maintaining exceptional product integrity, upholding its multi-generational family business legacy, and supporting a variety of environmental objectives. These factors, coupled with the current regulatory landscape (notably, the phasedown of legacy hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants), have put Hensley’s focus on ways to upgrade its refrigeration systems. Phasedown of HFC refrigerants For the past several years, Chemours, ARS, and Hensley have worked together to retrofit the distributor’s existing R-22 and R-404A systems to Opteon™ XP40 (R-449A), a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) blend offering zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and a significantly lower global warming potential (GWP) than legacy products. However, with the ongoing phasedown of HFC refrigerants under the U.S. EPA’s American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM), the teams began weighing the benefits of an even bolder upgrade. “Hensley Beverage is proud to partner with Chemours, TBSI, and ARS to help develop innovative solutions and responsible business practices that drive sustainability in our community. These groundbreaking results are a culmination of partnership and collaboration. It is refreshing to work with three organizations that are this passionate about developing pioneering products that will help shape a better future for the communities we serve,” Alex Dunn SVP of Operations, Hensley Beverage.  Solution Chemours recommended bringing Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C) into Hensley’s refrigeration plan Even as Chemours, ARS, and Hensley continued to strategically employ retrofit solutions in some areas, they explored options that would put the company in a stronger position for the long term. Chemours recommended bringing Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C) into Hensley’s refrigeration plan. A mildly flammable refrigerant with an ASHRAE A2L safety classification, Opteon™ XL20 is designed for use in new equipment, so Hensley identified an old R-22 system near the end of its life that was ideal for replacement by a new system using Opteon™.  Opteon™ XL20 has been used for several years in Europe and is expected to become the new norm in the U.S. by 2026, based on the current direction provided by the EPA. Leveraging its experience in Europe, the Chemours team of technical service and business development resources is prepared to support end users as they consider trial installations using A2L refrigerants. Features of Opteon™ XL20 Opteon™ XL20—the future of sustainable low- and medium-temperature refrigeration GWP of 148 (a 96% reduction versus R-404A)  Zero ODP Enables much higher charge sizes than highly flammable A3 refrigerants Is a close performance match to R-22 and R-404A Offers the optimum balance of performance and environmental sustainability Provides an easy, cost-effective alternative to legacy refrigerants in new equipment applications Utilizes well-known technology for ease of service and maintenance Benefits of HFOs Hensley was an early adopter of Opteon™ XP40, retrofitting equipment to experience better “Hensley was an early adopter of Opteon™ XP40, retrofitting equipment to experience better environmental outcomes, as well as high performance in low- and medium-temperature applications. Experiencing these benefits of HFOs whet their appetite to ask, ‘What next?’ With a strong dedication to supporting their communities and the environment while operating an efficient and thriving business, Hensley is a company that pushes the envelope." "Chemours was ready with our next-generation Opteon™ XL20—that will ensure they achieve maximum performance, operating efficiency, and sustainability," Joe Martinko President, Thermal and Specialized Solutions, Chemours. New low GWP refrigerant  “Our industry is undergoing some of the most significant regulatory changes in history and will be for the foreseeable future. ARS was excited to work with Chemours and be a part of the launch at Hensley of the new low GWP refrigerant." "It’s been a privilege for ARS to help bring together such an excellent group of partners for this project—and to install a first-of-its-kind system right here in Tucson, a community we’ve proudly served since 1948,” John White President, American Refrigeration Supplies, Inc.  Opteon™ XL20 properties ASHRAE Number: R-454C Composition Weight%: R-32/R-1234yf 21.5/78.5 Molecular Weight: 90.8 g/mol Normal Boiling Point: -45.6 °C (-50.0 °F) Critical Pressure: 4318.9 kPa (626.4 psia) Critical Temperature: 85.7 °C (186.2 °F) Liquid Density at 21.1 °C (70 °F): 1058.2 kg/m³ (66.1 lb/ft³) Ozone Depletion Potential (CFC-11 = 1.0): 0 AR4 (AR5) GWP (CO₂ = 1.0): 148 (146) ASHRAE Safety Classification: A2L Temperature Glide: ~6 K (~10.8 R) LFL (UL 60335 2-89 WCF): 0.291 kg/m³ (0.018 lb/ft³). Collaboration and Installation The installation brought together additional resources from the HVACR industry, including Copeland and Heatcraft Refrigeration Products— two ARS manufacturing partners—as well as Technical Building Services, Inc. (TBSI), the local HVACR service provider. As HVACR technology providers helping customers achieve their sustainability, decarbonization, and regulatory compliance goals, Heatcraft and Copeland had the knowledge and experience of emerging A2L requirements and the capabilities to support the project. TBSI was selected as the contractor for installation and servicing.  Use of R-22 in other Hensley systems Installation, evacuation, and setting methods were very similar to the recent refrigerants With the team assembled, Chemours took the lead on the project, ensuring that the contractor, Hensley’s service personnel, and others involved were certified through the ESCO Institute’s A2L refrigerant training program, and answering any questions from the local authorities.  After safely recovering the R-22 for use in other Hensley systems, the team from TBSI started removing the existing Keg 6 equipment, hanging new evaporator coils, and running new refrigerant lines. Installation, evacuation, and charging procedures were very similar to the current refrigerants in use by industry, making for a time- and cost-efficient process. Next generation of climate technology “Copeland has always been focused on not just setting the standard in climate solutions with pioneering brands in compression, controls, software, and monitoring—but pioneering the evolution in this space. Our role in the system design and installation for Hensley was right in our wheelhouse. What we accomplished together demonstrates that by bringing together energy-efficient products, regulation-ready solutions, and expertise, we can revolutionize the next generation of climate technology for the better,” Brian Schroeder Engineering Manager, Refrigerants, Copeland.  “Our tools and gauges were already enabled for the R-454C refrigerant. The startup and charging of both systems went pretty smoothly. TBSI is proud to have participated in the project at Hensley and, by doing so, adding to the variety of equipment we’ve worked on since founding our business in 1990. This was a great opportunity to grow our experience with A2Ls,” Sergio Pelayo Vice President, TBSI.  Copeland monitoring data Copeland applied monitoring units to the systems that capture nearly two dozen data points every second To make sure the system performed as expected, Copeland applied monitoring units to the systems that capture nearly two dozen data points every second. The data has shown that the systems are running as designed.  “We are thrilled with the results of the R-454C project with Hensley Beverage. As we continue our journey toward new regulation compliance, this successful collaboration has been instrumental in leveraging Heatcraft’s new product design efforts, with A2L refrigerants being an important part of the mix. We are poised to lead the industry and provide more customers like Hensley with cutting-edge solutions that drive their success,” Bob Landi Vice President and General Manager, Heatcraft Refrigeration Products. Summary Influenced by upcoming regulatory changes and stronger organizational ESG commitments, the commercial refrigeration industry’s transition to lower GWP refrigerants is inevitable. Opteon™ refrigerants provide organizations with lower GWP options that can help extend the useful life of their systems, as well as new equipment options that enable decades of reliable operation. Moreover, these systems answer the consumer preference for businesses that utilize responsibly manufactured products and support a greener environment. Hensley’s approach demonstrates an ideal way for companies to meet the needs of refrigerating their products while following the guidelines of the HFC phasedown. It’s important to assess where your equipment is in its lifecycle and determine if it makes the most sense in terms of budget, performance needs, and corporate vision to (1) retrofit existing equipment for more efficient and sustainable operation or (2) replace it with A2L refrigerant technologies and products.

ECO Steam and Heating ordered a 10MW Electrode Steam Boiler for their Dutch customer - MARS WRIGLEY in Veghel. This is the largest chocolate bar factory in the world that produces brands, such as Twix, Mars, and Bounty. PARAT Halvorsen AS will deliver the 10MW High Voltage Electrode Steam Boiler that will reduce emissions and bring flexibility to their boiler house.  Power to Heat system The Power to Heat system will be delivered with a 10kV Connection, Design Temperature of 204°C, Operating Pressure of 13.5 barg, Circulation Pumps, and Feedwater Pumps. ECO Steam and Heating will take care of the Project Management, including lift-in and installation of the complete boiler system, while PARAT will do the start-up and training of personnel.

In line with the UK’s Net-Zero targets, local governments are transitioning communities to a greener future. Kemsley Community Centre, based in Sittingbourne, Kent, United Kingdom (UK) were looking for a more energy efficient and sustainable system to heat and cool their large and multiple areas of the community center, in order to replace a 1960’s oil-fired system. Phoenix ACR, specialists in AC and refrigeration, specified a Panasonic R32 split system with 4 x 20kW PACi outdoor units and 11 of the Panasonic PACi NX Elite range of wall mounted indoor units with nanoe X. Panasonic R32 split system installed The new system needed to meet the needs of the entire community center, covering the main hall, bar area and reception area. Each section required units suited to the individual area, which could seamlessly combine and function under a single control system. The Panasonic PACi NX Elite range was specified by installer, Nathan Bell, the Managing Director of Phoenix ACR, who explains “We have worked with Panasonic a lot in the past, so we knew its range was the best to deliver the efficiency, reliability and value for money that was key to this installation. The energy-saving design and high efficiency makes the Panasonic units ideal for this project.” Panasonic PACi NX Elite wall mounted indoor units The PACi NX Elite range allows a great amount of flexibility in design and install The PACi NX Elite range allows a great amount of flexibility in design and install, which was crucial to ensuring we could adapt to the needs of each room, providing the perfect solution for the customer. The addition of nanoe X technology, which inhibits viruses and bacteria, was a key benefit of the Panasonic units, to help provide a better indoor environment for the community center staff and its users in a post-pandemic world.” Featuring nanoe X technology In the main hall and bar area, 11 Panasonic PACi NX Elite wall-mounted units with nanoe X technology were installed. These are especially beneficial for high ceiling areas, such as found in the community center. The reception area has two PACi ceiling suspended units, with the slim design making them more discreet for the smaller room, along with being one of the quietest units currently on the market. Facilities Trustee of Kemsley Community Centre, David Grawler, said “It is so important that we provide a sustainable future for our community. Phoenix ACR recommended this solution, and we are very happy with how it meets our energy efficiency needs. With our old system, if we hired out a single room, we would end up having to heat the entire building.” David Grawler adds, “The new Panasonic system allows us to control all units as one for the entire building, but also enables us isolate the individual spaces, adding a new way for us to function in a more energy efficient way, without having to compromise on comfort.” PACi NX Standard and PACi NX Elite ranges The PACi NX Standard and PACi NX Elite ranges provide high quality heating and cooling The PACi NX Standard and PACi NX Elite ranges provide high quality heating and cooling, boasting top class SEER ratings of A++ and SCOP ratings of A+ and A++ at 10kW respectively. Both provide slim, lightweight and compact designs. The PACi Elite offers greater design flexibility, making it adaptable to various building types and sizes, key to delivering the perfect solution across larger projects. The design allows for high quality under a wide range of conditions, with cooling possible in temperatures as lows as -15 degrees or as high as 46 degrees, and heating in temperatures as low as -20 degrees. Kemsley Community Centre Kemsley Community Centre has a touch screen centralized controller installed behind the bar, allowing the management of the entire system from a single point. Additionally, the system utilizes WIFI adaptors which connect the units to the Panasonic comfort cloud App, allowing for remote management and monitoring of the multiple air conditioning units required for this project. The units came with nanoe X technology as standard, a unique and proven technology to help improve air hygiene by preventing transmission of airborne pathogens, to create a safer and healthier indoor environment. Nanoe X works independently from the heating and cooling operation when the unit is in fan mode, improving protection 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Panasonic units – a great addition to the community center David Gawler concludes, “The Panasonic units have proven to be a great addition to the community center, they helped us cope during the summer heat wave of 2022, and heating capabilities this winter. It is great that we can still provide comfort in the center to all those who use it whilst also taking a big step to a greener future.”

Visitors to Great Yarmouth's new £26m Water and Leisure Centre, which recently opened on the resort's famous Golden Mile, will benefit from outstanding indoor comfort due to a high-performance Toshiba heat recovery VRF air conditioning system. The high-efficiency Toshiba system, installed by Adcock Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, was chosen to meet the project’s sustainability requirements and serves the center's pool and water facilities, 100-station health and fitness gym, sports hall with climbing zone, and café with views over Great Yarmouth beach. HVAC system delivers maximum energy efficiency Based on a combination of Toshiba’s three-pipe SHRM-e and two-pipe SMMS-u VRF systems, the HVAC system is designed to deliver maximum energy efficiency and optimize the center's indoor climate for the comfort of visitors and staff. Due to the coastal location, outdoor condensers are treated with an epoxy coating to protect against corrosion and prolong working life. Toshiba indoor units The center includes 28 Toshiba indoor units, mainly ceiling-suspended cassettes, supported by strategically sited wall-mounted and ducted units. Computer and communications suites are served by a separate dedicated air conditioning system with Toshiba lower global warming potential R-32 digital inverter splits, for fine temperature control and energy efficiency. To provide the required resilience, the cooling system is designed to N+1, ensuring there is always a unit on standby in the unlikely event of a failure. Toshiba Carrier UK touchscreen unit Toshiba Carrier UK touchscreen unit connects to the central building management system Control for the Toshiba systems is provided by a Toshiba Carrier UK touchscreen unit, which connects to the central building management system, providing facility managers with full visibility and control of operating conditions and the ability to optimize total system performance. Craig Snowden, Adcock's Contracts Manager, said "Despite the size of the project and potential complexities due to operating in the pandemic, the physical installation on site went smoothly. We have worked with Toshiba on many projects before, and are familiar with the brand and the equipment. Once the design plans were in place and verified, the installation process itself was relatively straightforward." efficiency and performance Toshiba's multi-award-winning SHRM-e system has won every major UK air conditioning accolade for its outstanding efficiency and performance. When introduced, it broke new ground in terms of compressor design, controls, and wireless communications, extending the application envelope for VRF into new territory. The system achieves a European Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (ESEER) of 8 and above in most capacities, an industry first, and an ESEER exceeding 7 for all capacities.

Brackett’s Market IGA is a privately-owned grocery store in coastal Bath, Maine – ‘The City of Ships.’ The store is owned by Steve Brackett, who leverages 20 years of grocery experience from Kroger.   Steve met QM Power’s Kellan Draeger and Paul Ravenelle of Automated Building Systems (ABS) Energy Solutions at the Bozzuto’s Independent Retailer Conference, where they discussed rebate opportunities available to grocers like him through Efficiency Maine’s energy efficiency incentive programs. ABS, a seasoned Energy Services team with vast supermarket expertise, agreed to conduct a no-cost audit for Brackett’s.   Vast supermarket expertise Steve’s goals for this project were to keep things fresh, moving, and visible while accruing maximum energy savings. Project: The audit revealed that the store had several opportunities for energy upgrades and improvements. While Brackett’s, like many other grocery stores, had previously upgraded to LED lighting, another huge opportunity for efficiency improvements lay in the next frontier of savings: refrigeration. Energy savings measures included replacing all case, walk-in cooler, and freezer motors with ultra-efficient Q-Sync® motors, adding doors to open multi-deck cases, and incorporating aero-dynamic blades to shelves to direct air back into the cases, preventing cooling loss. Replacing existing 30-year-old electrical-commutated motor (ECM) technology with new Q-Sync® technology is the next biggest improvement stores can make after changing lighting from infrared or UV to LED. Because motors run continuously, the savings accrue in similar fashion. Energy efficiency measures Avoiding just one Refrigeration Contractor visit can save anywhere from $350 to $750 Ron Skilton of ABS says, “We install Q-Sync® motors in grocery stores where we want to help owners boost their profits through energy efficiency measures. A typical upgrade results in efficiencies of 40% or more which pays for the installation in about one year. We install only Q-Sync® motors due to this compelling ROI and ongoing reliability.” Perhaps equally important to the store owner is the IP65 rating. Avoiding just one Refrigeration Contractor visit can save anywhere from $350 to $750 depending on the location. A typical store will experience several such incidents per year. These are unpredictable but very real recurring savings. More peaceful atmosphere Taking into account Steve’s goals for the project, ABS was able to make all of the efficiency upgrades without down-time in the store. Customers were able to stockup on fresh meat, dairy, and produce throughout the experience. And the new store experience was enhanced with a clear view of fresh food items, warmer aisles, and a more peaceful atmosphere due to the quiet Q-Sync® motors. Steve Brackett began tracking his energy savings immediately, sending graphs to the ABS team to illustrate the impact on his ROI. The Q-Sync® motors, in particular, improved the energy bill right away. The upgrades made for a clear winning solution for Brackett’s Market.