R-32

Daikin Applied has introduced enhanced versions of the Trailblazer® AGZ-F air-cooled scroll chiller, Maverick® II packaged rooftop system and SmartSource® water source heat pump (WSHP) — all featuring R-32, an ultra-efficient, low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant. These products are now part of Daikin’s extensive lineup of low-GWP solutions, giving consulting engineers, contractors, and building owners and operators an array of technologies to decarbonize facilities and deliver sustainable comfort. Properties of R-32 refrigerant The unique properties of R-32 refrigerant help deliver additional advantages, such as high full- and part-load efficiencies Plus, the unique properties of R-32 refrigerant help deliver additional advantages, such as high full- and part-load efficiencies, reduced unit weight and footprint, and easier serviceability. "All HVAC manufacturers are transitioning to low-GWP refrigerants per EPA rule, but that doesn’t mean all low-GWP refrigerants are the same," said Jim Macosko, Vice President of Product and Sustainability Solutions at Daikin Applied. R-32’s superior capacity and efficiency Jim Macosko adds: "We decided to re-engineer our equipment specifically for R-32 to provide a range of benefits beyond the GWP value of the refrigerant." He continues, "With the Trailblazer AGZ-F, for example, we were able to drop a bank of V coils and reduce the size of the chiller because of R-32’s superior capacity and efficiency. Smaller, lighter, more efficient — these are benefits that provide value across the entire lifecycle of the machine and system."  Applications of R-32 HVAC units Daikin has committed to R-32 for applications that previously used R-410A refrigerant Daikin has committed to R-32 for applications that previously used R-410A refrigerant. As a single-component refrigerant, R-32 boasts a two-thirds lower GWP compared to R-410A, and is easy to top off, recharge and reclaim in the field.  Not only is R-32 a more sustainable choice, but it stands as one of the most efficient, proven and accessible options available. With over 280 million R-32 HVAC units already installed worldwide, this refrigerant has been tested and widely recognized for its exceptional performance.  Trailblazer AGZ-F  Optimized for R-32 refrigerant, the Trailblazer AGZ-F air-cooled scroll chiller delivers reductions in spatial footprint, weight and refrigerant charge, and improvements in integrated part load value compared to previous models. With a 30- to 240-ton range, the Trailblazer serves a variety of applications — from mission-critical buildings and data centers to hospitals and manufacturing facilities.  Maverick II  Maverick II is a 30- to 50-ton commercial packaged rooftop system now available with R-32 refrigerant Maverick II is a 30- to 50-ton commercial packaged rooftop system now available with R-32 refrigerant. Arriving as a fully integrated solution, the Maverick II offers significant design and installation cost savings. It comes with a variety of factory-installed options, such as energy recovery and modulating hot gas reheat, all of which enhance performance across the life of the unit. Maverick II is ideal for one to three-story buildings, including offices, schools, libraries, and more.  SmartSource WSHP  With low-GWP R-32, the SmartSource WSHP boosts performance and uses less refrigerant than other WSHPs on the market. The horizontal and vertical 2- to 6-ton configurations now offer a standard two-stage compressor option, resulting in high efficiencies, low-noise operation, high indoor air quality, and consistent air temperatures. With a ½ to 25-ton range, these WSHPs are optimal for schools, clinics, office buildings, and other projects where cost savings and high efficiency are key.

airCore 700 with HeatForce is Hitachi's newest ENERGY STAR® certified cold-climate heat pump for light commercial and residential applications. Available up to 3 tons and utilizing low-GWP refrigerant R-32, it features a best-in-class piping length and a universal single-split outdoor unit with multiple indoor options to fit a wide variety of applications. With HeatForce technology, it offers 100% heating capacity at 5°F and 70% heating capacity or greater at -13°F, meeting most cold region climate rebates and incentives. Ducted Systems: Residential The cold climate-compatible YORK® HH8 Side-Discharge Heat Pump features variable-speed drive technology The cold climate-compatible YORK® HH8 Side-Discharge Heat Pump features variable-speed drive technology and can deliver approximately 70% heating capacity at 0°F. This sustainable residential solution has been optimized for use with low-GWP refrigerant R-454B, qualifying it for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (25C).  With a side discharge, compact footprint, and the ability to be stacked, the highly adaptable HH8 can be hidden under raised decks or installed in zero-lot-line neighborhoods. Ducted Systems: Commercial Available within the company’s Ducted Systems Solutions App, the new Refrigerant Detection System (RDS) Calculator is a first-of-its-kind tool. After entering details about a job, such as refrigerant volume, supply air discharge height and total area being conditioned, the calculator provides contractors with an immediate report confirming if an RDS is required for A2L equipment or not. This ensures an installation is compliant with current regulations without requiring contractors to complete complicated calculations. BAS/Controls The newest iteration of the industry-pioneering Building Automation System, Metasys 14.0, is designed to elevate a commercial building’s overall performance and sustainability while enhancing occupant comfort, health and safety. It builds on the proven Metasys platform with revolutionary new features that offer an improved user experience, enhanced network efficiency, flexibility and security, simplified administration and improved energy management.  PENN® System 550 The new PENN® System 550 is a user-friendly modular electronic control solution  The new PENN® System 550 is a user-friendly modular electronic control solution that fulfills temperature, humidity, and/or pressure control needs.  System 550, the plug-and-play solution, is the first of its kind to include A2L refrigerant leak sensing and mitigation functionality and optional two-way cloud connectivity, providing a complete solution to meet A2L refrigerant regulations. Applied Equipment The next-generation YORK® YMAE Air-to-Water Inverter Scroll Modular Heat Pump is a high-efficiency, future-ready HVAC decarbonization solution for commercial and institutional buildings that want to minimize their environmental impact. The modular YORK YMAE is available in 2-pipe and 4-pipe configurations and can be configured with as many as 32 modules in a single control array, making it highly flexible to serve a wide range of applications. Variable speed inverter scroll compressors with enhanced vapor injection (EVI) technology efficiently widens the YMAE operating map, allowing it to provide water temperatures up to 130°F (55°C) at low ambient conditions of 0°F (-18°C). OpenBlue Enterprise Manager The OpenBlue Enterprise Manager suite of digital solutions, part of the OpenBlue digital ecosystem, now features significantly expanded AI capabilities. The updates include the first customer-facing generative AI applications, more autonomous building controls, and a significantly improved user experience. Coupled with equipment upgrades and proactive services, OpenBlue customers can reduce energy spend by up to 30%, reduce maintenance spend by up to 20%, and optimize space utilization by up to 10% - a win for the environment and the bottom line.

Daikin Comfort Technologies North America, Inc. (Daikin), a global pioneer in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) manufacturing, has advanced to the final stage of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump Technology Challenge. This milestone follows the successful completion of multiple field tests, underscoring Daikin's commitment to product innovation in energy-efficient electric heating solutions.  Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump DOE's Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge aims to foster collaboration among manufacturers, utilities Launched in 2021, the DOE's Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge aims to foster collaboration among manufacturers, utilities, and other stakeholders to develop next-generation heat pump technology capable of delivering reliable and energy-efficient heating in extreme winter conditions. The goal of this challenge aligns with Daikin’s commitment to providing high-performance low Global Warming Potential (GWP) R-32 inverter heat pump solutions to every climate one in the U.S. and Canada.  decarbonization goals "Daikin is thrilled to continue to the final phase of the DOE's Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge. Our collaboration with the DOE underscores our mission to accelerate decarbonization goals across the U.S. and Canada with innovative, energy-efficient inverter heat pump technology," said Takayuki Inoue, Executive Vice President and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for Daikin. Takayuki Inoue adds, "This challenge plays a critical role in raising public awareness that will drive the adoption of advanced heating solutions, and we are eager to see the positive impacts unfold in the years to come." Commitment to develop sustainable technologies Reflecting its commitment to developing sustainable technologies, Daikin will continue to collaborate with the DOE and key stakeholders to strive for the successful completion of this challenge. 

Until a couple of years ago, most of the talk about heat pumps occurred around this time of year, when more than half the planet prepares for an autumn cooldown. These discussions were typically limited to regions that only experienced moderate winters. But as anyone who has recently perused an HVACR trade magazine or website—or participated in an industry webinar, event, or social media conversation—can tell you, the topic of heat pumps is virtually unavoidable. Not only do heat pump discussions now occur year-round, but they’ve also ascended to consistent headline status and transcended the traditional boundaries of moderate climates.  The decarbonization megatrend One might say heat pumps have taken their place on the global stage. If you’re asking why this has happened, the answer requires just three words: the decarbonization megatrend. However, for industry professionals looking to grow their businesses, it’s helpful to gain a deeper understanding of heat pumps—how they work, ways they are currently meeting HVACR needs, and where the technology is headed for next-generation applications. Through this understanding, members of the industry can better forecast customer needs as well as identify opportunities for expanding in both current markets and, potentially, new ones. How heat pumps work—don’t let the name fool you The heat released as the refrigerant condenses is then transferred to interior spaces What heat pumps do and, more specifically, how they do it provides the key as to why they are now being considered a “hero” of decarbonization. The term can be misleading, because “heat pumps” do not generate heat. Because of this, heat pumps are being more widely embraced as the lower-carbon-emission alternative to combustion-based heating technology that uses, for example, fossil fuels.  Instead of creating heat, heat pumps extract heat energy from where it’s not needed and move it to where it is needed. When a heat pump is in heating mode, its refrigerant evaporates as it absorbs heat from the outside. The heat released as the refrigerant condenses is then transferred to interior spaces. In warmer weather, a heat pump kicks into cooling mode and the process is reversed, as heat is extracted inside and released outside. This non-combustion process of moving heat from one place to another provides several potential benefits to society: Heat pumps support the megatrend toward decarbonization. They replace fossil-fuel heating with high-efficiency technology. They can be paired with lower-global-warming-potential (GWP) A2L refrigerants—such as R-454B and R-32—to further increase environmental benefits, while offering similar performance to the legacy R-410A. They offer the ability to tap into alternative energy sources, such as industrial waste heat as well as heat sourced from the air (ambient), ground (geothermal), or lakes/ponds (water). Meeting today’s needs—these aren’t your grandfather’s heat pumps Heat pump technology has been commercially available and in use since the 1950s. Early versions of heat pumps were essentially reversible air conditioning units, and most used traditional refrigerants—like R-22 and, more recently, R-410A. These units performed well and operated safely using lower-toxicity, nonflammable (A1) refrigerants. However, they were known to sometimes struggle at lower ambient temperatures. As often happens in the world of science and technology, challenges drive the search for solutions. Today, we’re seeing innovations that result in efficient, effective cold-climate heat pumps that optimize various components, such as compressors, heat exchangers, expansion valves, and their controls. Thanks to these innovations and others, the U.S. and other countries are experiencing broader heat pump adoption and, in turn, supporting progress toward decarbonization.  Heat pump technology has been commercially available. Increasing heat pump accessibility and viability in more places and spaces is also critical to the HVACR industry’s commitments to the environment—and its need to heed regulations advancing the transition to systems reducing climate impact. Emerging systems use mildly flammable (A2L) refrigerants. They are similar in design to legacy systems and include modifications to mitigate risks associated with the change to A2Ls. Where things are headed—heat pump technology is just getting started Even with the significant advances we’ve seen in colder-climate heat pumps, there is still untapped potential in terms of what the technology can achieve. We can expect to see continued innovation as end-user needs and environmental priorities continue to evolve. Some foreseeable growth areas for heat pumps include: Traditional applications—that is, moderate climates Expansion into nontraditional climates—heating in very cold climates and cooling in hotter regions Domestic water heating, replacing fossil-fuel systems Leveraging a variety of heat sources—geothermal, air-sourced, and water-sourced Harnessing waste heat generated by energy-intensive industrial processes Use of lower-GWP A2L refrigerants System optimization will also drive greater use of lower-GWP A2L refrigerants, such as R-454B Supporting these growth areas will be innovations that optimize high-performance, high-efficiency delivery of extracted heat, using a combination of traditional and new split-ducted, ductless/mini-split, and mono-block technologies. System optimization will also drive greater use of lower-GWP A2L refrigerants, such as R-454B, while limiting the use of highly flammable refrigerants such as R-290. Refrigerant selection will also play an increasingly important role and may offer additional opportunities for application-specific technology. As heat pump applications expand, we can expect to see greater focus on selecting the optimum refrigerant to use as the working fluid. Criteria will weigh system design, operating conditions, and other priorities against key refrigerant properties: Physical—boiling point, vapor pressure, density, and material compatibility Thermodynamic—cooling/heat capacity, energy efficiency, pressure-enthalpy (PH) curves Environmental—ozone depletion potential (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP) Safety and health—flammability and toxicity Conclusion: There’s strong and ample reason to “stay pumped” Over the past several years, members of the HVACR industry have enthusiastically embraced new heat pump solutions. Evolving heat pump technology and expanding applications will continue as the industry progresses along the path of more energy-efficient, lower-GWP, and more sustainable new-generation and next-generation heating and cooling. This, coupled engineering and science that leverages untapped heat pump potential, will mean more opportunities for HVACR contractors to deliver new options to the markets they serve. With a strong understanding of their customers’ individual heating and cooling needs, climate challenges, and sustainability goals, contractors can confidently select the best heat-pump refrigerant solution.

By now, most of the HVACR industry is familiar with the HFC phasedown portion of the U.S. EPA American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act that was signed in 2020 and finalized in 2021. The first phasedowns started Jan. 1, 2020, with a 10% reduction in HFC refrigerant production, importation, and consumption, and was followed by an additional 30% reduction that began Jan. 1, 2024. As these regulations work to achieve a total 85% HFC phasedown from historic baseline levels by 2036, Technology transition rules will start to impact the industry as early as Jan. 1, 2025. Technology Transitions Often referred to as “sector controls,” Technology Transitions are the second of three main sections of the AIM Act. They focus on limiting the use of HFC refrigerants and supporting A2L adoption by calling for global warming potential (GWP) limits for refrigerants based on specific applications, including refrigeration, air conditioning, heat pumps, and more.  three new-generation refrigerants Three new-generation refrigerants help create a clear path to making refrigerant transitions that comply with the rules Although the Technology Transitions program is rather complex (providing rules for which refrigerants or GWP limits apply for which applications and when) focusing on just three new-generation refrigerants helps create a clear path to making refrigerant transitions that comply with the rules and support more sustainable operations. While several new refrigerants have been developed recently, many of the HVACR industry’s applications and equipment can be covered by focusing on these three refrigerants: R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C.   R-454A (AR4 GWP = 239)   Developed to replace legacy refrigerants such as R-404A, R-454A is an HFO blend offering zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and a GWP of 239, lower than R-404A’s GWP of 3,920. R-454A is classified as a mildly flammable, low-toxicity A2L, suitable for low- and medium-temperature commercial refrigeration applications. The AIM Act Technology Transitions set a maximum GWP of 300 for several types of systems with charge limits up to 200 lbs., such as remote condensing units for food retail walk-ins and cascade systems. These systems are ideal for R-454A, given the refrigerant’s improved performance and reduced GWP compared with R-404A.  R-454B (AR4 GWP = 467)  Regarding refrigerants of the future at work today, R-454B is likely the one you’ve heard the most about. Establishing itself as the predominant replacement for R-410A in new air conditioners and chillers, R-454B started being used earlier this year. R-454B will be used in most equipment manufactured after Dec. 31, 2024. Offering a GWP of 467 compared with R-410A’s GWP of 2,088 (a 78% reduction), R-454B has been selected by most air conditioning and heat pump manufacturers worldwide.   R-454C (AR4 GWP = 148)  R-454C, with a GWP of 148, offers compliance with AIM Act regulations and is suitable for new systems R-454C, with a GWP of 148, offers compliance with AIM Act regulations and is suitable for new systems in applications requiring a GWP of <150. Two examples are small standalone units and larger system architectures with a charge size of >200 lbs. being developed for supermarkets.   For Use in New Equipment Only  R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C are HFO-blend refrigerants and have slightly different R-32 and R-1234yf components percentages. All three are individually optimized for peak performance and carry an A2L mild flammability safety classification. As A2Ls, these refrigerants can only be used in new equipment designed to mitigate leaks and flammability risks and must be installed according to OEM instructions and in compliance with applicable safety standards and building codes.  Easy as A, B, C  In anticipation of AIM Act regulations and the continued adoption of R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C, the HVACR industry has ramped up A2L training and engineering support significantly over the past few years. So, while sorting through the regulatory changes and becoming familiar with the new refrigerant options may seem complex, focusing on these three A2Ls will hopefully make your refrigeration transition, and your business’s future growth as easy as A, B, C.  

Integrating technology, data, and a nationwide network of contractors and distribution centers, Motili seeks to transform how HVAC services are delivered. With a focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and cost savings, Motili helps property owners and contractors achieve their goals while promoting a greener future for the HVAC industry.  motili expansion Motili meets various industry needs, whether a property manager looking for streamlined HVAC solutions or a contractor seeking more jobs.  Motili started in upstate New York as One-HVAC, a marketing call center connecting contractors with homeowners. Born after the housing market crash in 2008, Motili expanded nationwide; in 2015, the headquarters moved to Denver, Colorado.   energy-efficient technologies Motili is equipped to provide high-quality, eco-friendly equipment and services Motili was acquired by Daikin in 2017 and supports some of the largest national accounts with HVAC services across industries such as single-family, commercial, military, and big-box retail. With the growing demand for sustainable, energy-efficient technologies, Motili is equipped to provide high-quality, eco-friendly equipment and services.   Growing HVAC businesses “We help HVAC contractors grow their business and keep their crews active,” says Matthew Sallee, Motili’s VP of National Accounts, and Marketing. “By providing them with sold jobs from our customers, we eliminate the need for bidding and costly marketing or advertising. We even offer job opportunities during the shoulder season to keep crews working year-round.”  advanced technology platform The advanced technology platform enables tracking of HVAC system details such as age, condition, and efficiency. Proactively, Motili can help customers identify potential system failures through preventative maintenance and planned replacement projects across portfolios, thus reducing costly downtime and extending equipment lifespan.   Reactively, the platform assists with unplanned repairs and replacements by dispatching jobs to a network of HVAC contractors, who receive job notifications via a mobile app. They also help customers select the best equipment for their needs, ensuring they get the most energy-efficient, reliable, and cost-effective system possible.  Customer benefits Customers benefit from seamless HVAC solutions, covering everything from unexpected repairs and replacements Motili connects property management customers across the country with a network of contractors who install high-efficiency equipment from Goodman and Daikin, powered by Motili’s technology platform. Customers benefit from seamless HVAC solutions, covering everything from unexpected repairs and replacements to large-scale projects with installations tailored to meet the needs of their entire portfolio.   preventative maintenance “We help manage nationwide portfolios with a focus on preventative maintenance and sustainable products, ensuring consistent comfort for tenants and cost savings for property owners,” says Sallee.  Data is crucial for property owners and managers to make informed decisions about HVAC systems. Motili enables property owners to leverage system data for proactive maintenance and capital planning.  key metrics “By aggregating and analyzing key metrics like system age, efficiency, and performance, we help property owners and managers identify inefficiencies and plan cost-effective solutions,” says Sallee. This allows them to prioritize investments and plan maintenance schedules with confidence, leading to improved system performance, reduced operational costs, and better long-term management of their HVAC assets.  job flexibility Contractors can optimize their schedules, keep their teams active year-round, and expand their business HVAC contractors can grow their business by partnering with Motili, gaining access to sold jobs they would not typically reach. With the mobile app, contractors benefit from a steady stream of jobs, removing the need for bidding and costly marketing efforts. With quick payments and the flexibility to choose jobs, contractors can optimize their schedules, keep their teams active year-round, and expand their business without the inefficiencies of traditional lead generation methods.   HVAC efficiency goals Leveraging technology, Motili seeks to help customers achieve their HVAC efficiency goals while reducing costs. Several key technologies industrywide are advancing the HVAC industry toward net zero: inverter technology, heat pumps, and low-GWP refrigerants. Daikin’s energy-saving inverter technology minimizes energy fluctuations, delivering consistent comfort and lower energy bills. When paired with a modern heat pump, this system provides efficient, year-round comfort using minimal electricity, transferring heat rather than generating it without burning fossil fuels.  R-32 refrigerant Finally, R-32 refrigerant has a low environmental impact. Compared to the refrigerants widely used such as R-22 and R-410A, R-32 has a global warming potential (GWP) that is one-third lower. Together, these innovations create cost-effective, reliable, and energy-efficient systems.

SNAP Rule 26 marks an important milestone in the transition from commercial refrigeration to new refrigerants. The rule lists refrigerant substitutes that provide a spectrum of technological solutions to meet required performance, global warming potential (GWP), safety, and environmental standards.  SNAP stands for Significant New Alternatives Policy, a program by the U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) under the Clean Air Act. In general, the program aims to evaluate and regulate substitutes for ozone-depleting substances, considering their overall risks to both human health and the environment. Impact of SNAP Rule 26 Final SNAP Rule 26, Protection of Stratospheric Ozone, lists acceptable substitutes in commercial and industrial refrigeration. SNAP Rule 26 will be effective July 15, 2024. The incorporation by reference of certain material listed in the rule is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of July 15, 2024. The incorporation by reference of certain material listed in the rule is approved by the Director of the Federal Register “To date, the SNAP program has provided a very effective framework for evaluation and approval in support of innovation and the transition to new technology,” says Andrew Pansulla, Technical Service Engineer, The Chemours Company, a global chemistry company that provides a range of refrigerant products. We asked Pansulla to elaborate further on the impact of SNAP Rule 26 and what lies ahead. Q: How will the Rule’s finalization impact various commercial refrigeration sectors? Pansulla: The rule’s finalization will impact commercial refrigeration in several ways. Areas, where impact will likely be seen, include providing more acceptable refrigerant options, adherence to updated standards, new equipment design standards, and the exemption of propane from the venting prohibition for refrigerated food processing and dispensing equipment. These impacts could trigger changes in operational, manufacturing, and environmental compliance strategies in the commercial refrigeration sectors. SNAP Rule 26 will enable the adoption of the listed substitutes, including Chemours Opteon™ refrigerants, with global warming potential (GWP) lower than existing refrigerants. This rule does not require any changes to existing equipment and will impact only new equipment that uses the specific substances referenced in the SNAP rule. Q: What is the outlook for additional requirements for safe handling and use of alternative refrigerants? What specific safety standards are expected or appropriate? Pansulla: As part of the comparative risk framework used by the EPA to assess new alternatives, the EPA considers and implements use conditions that will ensure the safe use of products. These use conditions rely upon existing safety standards (e.g., UL and ASHRAE) which are available at the time the rule is finalized. In the case of SNAP Rule 26, many of the use conditions require adherence to UL 60335-2-89 and ASHRAE-15-2022. These standards are reviewed and updated periodically to maintain relevance with the products subject to the standards. Q: What are any limitations of the use of A2L refrigerants under SNAP Rule 26? Pansulla: There are two main categories of limitations under SNAP Rule 26. The first, as mentioned above, is the adherence to specific safety standards that apply to refrigerants that are designated as mildly flammable (A2L). The second is based on the GWP of the refrigerant. In the case of the A2L refrigerants subject to SNAP Rule 26, the EPA imposed conditions on the type of equipment and specific circumstances in which the substitute may be used. For example, the EPA is permitting the use of R-454A in supermarket systems, but only on the high side of a cascade system, or when the refrigerant charge capacity is less than 200 pounds. Q: Which new-generation A2L refrigerants are fit for which commercial refrigeration applications? Pansulla: Under SNAP Rule 26, the EPA deems R-1234yf, R-1234ze(E), R-454C, R-455A, R-457A, and R-516A as acceptable subject-to-use conditions for various commercial refrigeration applications. This selection is primarily driven by these refrigerants having GWPs under 150. However, certain applications necessitate refrigerants with higher GWPs due to unique performance characteristics. For example, R-454B and R-32 were listed for industrial process refrigeration with exiting fluid temperatures below minus 30 degree Celsius because these two specific refrigerants have lower boiling points than the other six less-than-150-GWP alternatives. However, it is critically important to consider the additional use conditions when designing equipment with refrigerants that have a GWP greater than 150. Q: So various equipment needs different refrigerants? Pansulla: The EPA purposefully lists several different refrigerants in each application to allow for equipment manufacturers to consider a variety of different factors that go into refrigerant selection, such as energy efficiency, capacity, normal boiling point, temperature glide, cost, safety, and use conditions. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for the entire commercial refrigeration industry. Q: How can commercial refrigeration businesses achieve a smooth transition to A2Ls? Pansulla: Keys to a smooth transition to A2Ls include understanding what refrigerants the EPA has approved as acceptable substitutes under the SNAP program, the sector-based GWP limits imposed by the Technology Transitions Program under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, and which refrigerants provide the best combination of technical performance and environmental characteristics. Many resources are available to navigate the regulatory landscape and select the best low-GWP refrigerants to meet the needs of this industry. Working with companies like Chemours, who has nearly a century of refrigerant innovation and experience, is a great first step in the transition process. Q: What is the “staying power” of A2Ls — based on their chemistry, sustainability, and other attributes, combined with regulations such as SNAP Rule 26? Pansulla: The identification, selection, and development of new refrigerants that deliver required performance while meeting increasingly stringent environmental standards is a challenging process. With the identification of certain hydrofluoroolefin-based (HFO) refrigerants as an alternative to meet these criteria came a new safety classification. These HFO-based refrigerants are classified as A2Ls. While slightly more flammable than existing hydrofluorocarbon-base (HFC) refrigerants, HFOs are much less flammable than hydrocarbons, which are classified as A3 (two categories higher on the ASHRAE flammability spectrum). Moreover, such refrigerants offer an excellent alternative to substances with higher toxicity, such as R-717. The listing of A2L refrigerants in SNAP Rule 26 clearly indicates that such refrigerants can be used safely in commercial refrigeration as well as many other applications, which are subject to the SNAP Program, when adhering to the applicable safety standards.

AHR Expo 2024 was abuzz with activity, befitting a dynamic industry in the throes of change.  Industry developments such as electrification and the refrigerant transition render business opportunities on the AHR Expo show floor, where exhibitors display a determination to meet the challenges and thrive in the process. Walking from booth to booth during the three-day show in Chicago, I saw the best the HVAC industry has to offer, up close and personal. Innovation and adaptability are the watchwords as the industry journeys into 2024 and beyond. Refrigerant Transition Top of Mind  Patented R-454B refrigerant enables a simpler transition without redesigning equipment The technology transition is well underway for OEMs seeking to meet a pending AIM Act deadline at the end of the year. OEMs are choosing to embrace either R-32 or R454-B refrigerant to replace legacy R-410A, which is being phased out. Patented R-454B refrigerant enables a simpler transition without redesigning equipment, while R-32 offers advantages such as higher capacity, higher efficiency, and easier cradle-to-cradle management. Arkema Arkema is the only producer of R-32 refrigerant in the United States. The newer refrigerant is being embraced as HVAC OEMs seek to meet the deadline of Jan. 1, 2025, to use lower-GWP (global warming potential) refrigerants in their products. The technology transition is just part of the AIM Act implementation that will also limit allocation and require refrigerant management. Chemours Chemours is a manufacturer of R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C refrigerants. At AHR, they presented hourly education sessions on a variety of subjects. The refrigerant transition will impact everyone in the industry, including refrigerant producers, equipment manufacturers, contractors, and end users. R-454B refrigerant provides identical performance in HVAC systems compared to the previous refrigerant (R-410A). There is less need to redesign equipment; just adding sensors for leak mitigation can address the mild flammability of A2L refrigerants. Because of the 2025 deadline, 2024 will be the “year of new products” in the HVAC market. OEMs pioneering Innovation  Carrier and others are offering smaller footprints, seeking to meet environmental targets Innovation in the HVAC market is led by companies such as Carrier, which has introduced 100 new products each year for the past eight years. Carrier and others are offering smaller footprints, seeking to meet environmental targets, and providing flexibility for customers. New products include the AquaSnap 30RC air-cooled chiller and the AquaEdge 19MV chiller with low GWP refrigerant to meet pending regulatory requirements.  Copeland Copeland, recently divested from Emerson, also emphasizes innovation, including 12 research and development (R&D) facilities, 1,700 engineers, and more than 3,000 patents. At a press conference at AHR Expo, the 100-year-old company announced it is a “new” company owned by Blackstone Private Equity.  Products featured Among the featured products at AHR are Copeland’s oil-free centrifugal compressor with Aero-lift bearing technology; and Copeland’s CC200 case controller, specifically designed to handle the unique challenges of the current retail grocery refrigeration environments. Copeland also pledges to play a role in educating the market about new trends and the transition to new refrigerants.  Emphasizing a Smaller Footprint  Trailblazer AGZ-F is an R-32 air-cooled scroll chiller that delivers 10% greater capacity and efficiency Daikin Daikin highlights the Atmosphera, a single-zone ductless split system (using R-32) that can reduce carbon emissions by 80% (compared to R-410A). Also, Trailblazer AGZ-F is an R-32 air-cooled scroll chiller that delivers 10% greater capacity and efficiency. Products emphasize a smaller footprint and less weight than their predecessors. Rebel Applied is a packaged rooftop unit that continually adjusts operation to address the building load, consuming less energy. Trailblazer HP is an air-to-water heat pump chiller with a reversing function that allows the product to switch between cooling and heating based on temperature requirements.  Friedrich Air Conditioning Friedrich Air Conditioning features the Breeze universally flexible inverter heat pump, a ducted mini-split for upgrading traditional equipment. It works with any furnace or air handler, has side discharge, is 40% smaller, and is cold weather capable to minus 13. Friedrich's new Vert-I-Pak is a line of M1-compliant single package Vertical Heat Pumps (available in 9K, 12K, 18K, and 24K Btu), supporting decarbonization efforts with heat pump operation down to 10°F. High Efficiency for Commercial and Residential Johnson Controls Johnson Controls exhibits their highly efficient residential and commercial HVAC solutions designed for Department of Energy (DOE) 2023 compliance and helping customers achieve Net Zero goals through decarbonization. On display was the York High-Efficiency 18 SEER2 Side-Discharge Heat Pump with up to 30% smaller footprint than vertical-discharge equipment. Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning's Aircore 700 single split system is aimed at light commercial and residential. Midea Their 3-ton model achieved 118% of rated capacity heating output at minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit Midea, known for selling consumer products, has kept a low profile in the professional sector, selling products that are either OEMed for Carrier or private-labeled by a contractor company. Seeking to promote the Midea brand, the Chinese company is staking its claim on the trade market with an emphasis on performance: The company exceeded performance in the Department of Energy’s “ColdClimate Heat Pump Challenge:” Their 3-ton model achieved 118% of rated capacity heating output at minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat pump awareness Results of a survey conducted by Midea show that more than half of homeowners are not fully aware of heat pumps and their function. Awareness lags among contractors, too: 70% of contractors indicate they do not know that the current’s advanced heat pumps can generate 100% heat output to a minimum temperature of minus 4 F. Wide Selection of New Products Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US emphasizes all-electric heat pump solutions. The Deluxe Wall-mounted H2i sumo System connects with an outdoor unit, and the intelli-HEAT dual fuel system can determine the best source of heat – electric or gas – on cold days. Among commercial products, Heat2OHeat Pump Water Heaters are designed to produce high-volume domestic hot water for commercial facilities in any climate. LG Electronics LG Electronics’ booth includes a wide product range, including advanced heating, ventilating, air conditioning LG Electronics’ booth includes a wide product range, including advanced heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and building management solutions for residential and commercial applications. Home electrification products include the LG R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc system; the LG Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater the LG Electronics Home 8 Energy Storage System, and ThinQ, LG’s mobile app. LG Art Cool Gallery multi-zone wall-mount indoor unit The LG Art Cool Gallery multi-zone wall-mount indoor unit features a customizable picture frame that doubles as a cooling and heating vent. Also, LG’s Medium and High-Temperature Hydro Kit Systems use a refrigerant-to-water heat exchanger to produce chilled or heated water. LG’s Split Compact M3 DOAS with Multi V S is suited to light commercial use where single-phase power is available and as an HVAC solution for outdoor air treatment. Easier Access for Technicians  Rheem Manufacturing New equipment at the Rheem Manufacturing booth at AHR Expo includes true multi-zone operation, smaller footprints, lighter weights, and components that are positioned for easy access by technicians. An LED in the control cabinet displays a fault code that identifies the problem to service technicians. The Resolute and Renaissance lines are commercially packaged heat pump units. The company is emphasizing the transition from R-410A to R-454B refrigerant by the end of 2024. Aeroseal Whether a new install or a retrofit, the product saves energy, saves money, and keeps customers compliant Aeroseal seals ducts by spraying a vinyl acetate polymer substance to increase HVAC efficiency. Whether a new install or a retrofit, the product saves energy, saves money, and keeps customers compliant, and a 30% tax deduction is available through the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).  Airzone Airzone is a Spanish company that controls inverters and VRFs (variable refrigerant flow units). Their communication gateway controller incorporates protocols from various manufacturers, and the Easyzone is an easy-to-install zoning system.  Infinitum Infinitum manufactures a motor system that leverages a printed circuit board as a stator, making the motor system lighter weight and also smaller, quieter, and more efficient. The Aircore EC uses a standard printed circuit board manufacturing process to eliminate bearings. The component is used in blowers by OEMs Lau, Acme, Canarm, and Peerless, whose products are displayed at the booth.  Bell & Gossett Bell & Gossett debuts its line of smart, connected products designed to improve sustainability Bell & Gossett, a Xylem brand, debuts its line of smart, connected products designed to improve the sustainability of commercial buildings and reduce complexity in the design process. Combining pumps and smart motors are the e-1510 end-suction pump, e-80 vertical in-line pump, and TECHNOFORCE e-HV packaged booster system.  NIBCO Simplifying the job of an HVAC installer is the PressACR copper press connection system from NIBCO, which connects copper pipes without brazing, which involves soldering and high temperatures, thus a fire hazard. The patent-pending groove design and crimp pattern support the higher-pressure requirement of an HVACR system. Pipes are pressed together using PressACR jaws and adapter jaws in a variety of sizes. NIBCO also displayed its Webstone brand of residential and commercial valves.  Control Products Provide Data  Resideo Resideo displayed home system products, including the Honeywell Home T10+ thermostat with RedLINK 3.0; sensors enable temperature balancing for hot and cold spots. Pro-IQ Services provides software tools designed for the connected home, including insights on heating, cooling, water, and indoor air quality devices to help contractors track customers. Professional-grade water damage prevention, the First Alert L2 WiFi Water Sensor and Switch provide alarms if there is a water leak.  Schneider Electric The EcoStruxure Building Operation system is open system software for building and facility management Schneider Electric seeks to be “digital partners for our customers,” working with Fortune 500 companies seeking to achieve ESG (environment, social and corporate governance) goals. They help customers establish where they are currently vis-à-vis their goals and then deploy science-based key performance indicators (KPIs) to direct them to where they want to be. The EcoStruxure Building Operation system is open system software for building and facility management, including two products for the small and medium building (SMB) market. Energy measurement Schneider measures energy usage through power meters, indoor air quality, and energy spent to achieve efficiency, compiling data according to what the customer wants to achieve. They sell through a national sales team, direct branch business (20 branches), and 200 system integrators (EcoXperts). Their customers include QSR (quick-service restaurant chains) that control climate centrally with data compiled in the cloud.  Siemens Siemens displays solutions for smart, adaptable buildings for a sustainable tomorrow, including the Building X system and the Sustainability Manager application, providing an understanding of a building’s performance and tracking it against sustainability and compliance targets. The Building X Lifecycle Twin tracks operational building performance via a “digital twin,” providing an augmented reality (AR) headset through which one can view equipment with information superimposed on the screen. Uponor  Uponor seeks to leverage the capital cost of heating systems to deliver heating and hot water. They make pipes and connectors and other technologies, including the AuqaPort, which improves water quality and energy savings in domestic hot water (DHW) applications. They seek to future-proof buildings by combining energy efficiency and comfort. Water recirculates and provides hot water on demand using 40% less piping. A “radiant roll-out mat” is preconfigured piping that can be rolled out to simplify installation. 

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.

Johnston County Public Schools, located in Smithfield, North Carolina, chose Carrier to improve energy efficiency and comfort at five schools. Carrier is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions. AquaSnap® 30RB Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS), located in one of the nation’s fastest-growing counties, is the seventh-largest school district in the state. JCPS used money from the U.S. Department of Education’s Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund to replace a dozen chillers. The school district selected Carrier’s AquaSnap® 30RB, an air-cooled liquid chiller offering an effective all-in-one package that is easy to install and maintain. New Equipment Replaced Old Chillers The schools are in North Carolina’s fastest-growing county with 5,000 students enrolled at the five schools The new equipment replaced chillers that were between 20 and 25 years old at Cleveland Elementary, West Clayton Elementary, and Clayton High in Clayton; McGee’s Crossroads Elementary in Angier; and Glendale-Kenly Elementary in Kenly. According to the latest census data, the schools are in North Carolina’s fastest-growing county with 5,000 students enrolled at the five schools and are part of a larger school system with more than 37,000 students in 48 schools. On-Site Training For Staff In addition to the startup of the chillers, Carrier also provided on-site training for the school system’s maintenance staff ahead of the new school year. “Johnston County Public Schools appreciates that Carrier’s AquaSnap Greenspeed intelligence technology provides best-in-class part-load efficiency with quiet part-load operation,” said Philip Samartino, Sales Specialist, Carrier. Shell And Tube Evaporator Philip Samartino adds, “The school district needed the reliability of the aluminum fin copper tube condenser coils and simplicity of the scroll compressor technology to handle compressor repairs in-house. Many schools also have older piping infrastructure so they preferred the shell and tube evaporator as it is less susceptible to fouling and clogging up from dirty piping systems.” AquaSnap 30RB features In addition to Greenspeed® intelligence, the AquaSnap 30RB features a rotary scroll compressor, Puron® refrigerant, a quiet AeroAcoustic™ fan system, easy to use ComfortLink™ controls, microchannel condenser coil technology, and high-efficiency variable condenser fans. “Carrier is working with school districts nationwide to implement layered HVAC replacement and retrofit solutions that improve learning environments,” said Meredith Emmerich, Vice President, of North America Commercial HVAC, Carrier. Meredith Emmerich adds, “With solutions tailored to each school’s needs, Carrier is committed to helping foster the long-term well-being of students and staff and encourage the use of ESSER funds to make critical improvements that will impact generations of students.”

The well-known Italian brand, Big Mamma Restaurant Group, has recently transformed an old four story bank into a striking new restaurant, Jacuzzi, in the heart of High Street Kensington, West London, United Kingdom (UK). In keeping with the grand design of this new ‘pleasure palazzo’, the interior environment needed to offer ultimate comfort and to help create a memorable and luxurious dining experience. Summit Design specified, designed and installed the comprehensive new heating and cooling system, utilizing two 45kW Panasonic 3-pipe ECOi EX MF3 units with nanoe X technology. Panasonic 3-pipe ECOi EX MF3 units installed The Big Mamma Group selected the abandoned old bank building on Kensington High Street The Big Mamma Group selected the abandoned old bank building on Kensington High Street, for its fourth restaurant in London – Jacuzzi, a luxurious 170-seat Italian dining experience. Be-decked with high end Italian treasures and decadent interior design, the site covers four floors, including a Sicilian mezzanine floor with a retractable roof opening out to the bustle of High Street Kensington. Transforming the old historic bank building to a fully functional and fit for purpose restaurant required extensive renovations, including an entirely new heating, cooling and hot water system. To service the 4,000 sq. ft building, Jacuzzi needed a high-capacity performance and energy efficient solution, providing heating and cooling with accurate climate control and ultimate comfort.  Panasonic 45kW 3-pipe ECOi EX MF3 series With Summit Design’s in-depth understanding and knowledge of heating and cooling, the company specified two Panasonic 45kW 3-pipe ECOi EX MF3 series with nanoe X and with a range of indoor units including adaptive ducted, 4-way cassettes, ceiling suspended, floor mounted, wall mounted and slim ducted units. “The Panasonic ECOi EX series is one of the most advanced VRF systems currently on the market, offering not only high performance for simultaneous heating and cooling but also sophisticated installation,” says Dan Sparling of Summit Designs, adding “The solution is ideal for commercial applications having enough capacity to run the energy efficient system for the entire building.” Dan Sparling adds, “Furthermore, the wide selection of indoor units that the Panasonic range offers meant that we could adapt the system design to select the best and most appropriate indoor units, ensuring best choice for each space. It was very important for the heating, cooling and ventilation system to blend seamlessly into the interior design, so as to not distract in any away from the impressive diner experience and general ambience of this high-end restaurant.” Powerful performance for both heating and cooling The Panasonic ECOi EX MF3 offers powerful performance for both heating and cooling The Panasonic ECOi EX MF3 offers powerful performance for both heating and cooling. Designed with a twin rotary inverter compressor, the system is highly energy efficient even in extreme ambient temperatures of say 43 degree C and continue to cool, even when the outside temperature reaches a maximum of 52 degree C, with a high SEER of 3.49 and SCOP of 4.17. The optimized energy consumption was enhanced by the addition of the heat recovery box, which was able to connect multiple indoor units with a single box. The heat exchanger captures the waste heat from the cooling operation and is able to redirect it using the 3-pipe system to areas requiring heating. This capability allows the system to heat and cool multiple areas simultaneously, allowing for greater independent climate control across the four floors and flexibility in meeting a comfortable climate for all. Panasonic system offers flexibility The installation at the large Jacuzzi property was made easier by the flexibility of the Panasonic system. The units provide up to 1000 m of piping and up to 30 m height difference between the indoor units, meaning the system was able to extend its reach across all four floors with ease. The ECOi EX MF3 system provides easy to use and effective temperature and humidity controls, has a newly designed fan for optimized airflow, and customizable settings that can be tailored to suit the needs of the building. Panasonic ECOi units come as standard with nanoe X The Panasonic ECOi units now all come as standard with nanoe X technology" “The Panasonic ECOi units now all come as standard with nanoe X technology, a great benefit that really adds value, especially to a luxury dining experience like the new Jacuzzi restaurant,” said Rachel Wales, Regional Sales Manager for Panasonic. Rachel Wales adds, “The nanoe X technology inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses, and other airborne pollutants. With nanoe X, the system can reduce unpleasant odors, tackle mold and allergens and even help keep hard and soft surfaces clean, all of which culminate in creating a better indoor air quality and enhancing the experience for staff and guests alike.” Quick and convenient installation The Panasonic system was able to be installed quickly without any problems, helping deliver the opening of the new restaurant on time. Dan Sparling stated, “We are so pleased with the operation of the system so far and are assured that staff and guests of the restaurant are kept comfortable throughout their experience.”