R32 refrigerant gas is gaining popularity as a low-temperature refrigerant and as a replacement gas in R410A applications. Its carbon footprint is lower than that of most other HFC substances. Compared with R410, for example, it is three times more environmentally friendly (GWP 675).
R32 refrigerant gas applications and use
R32 refrigerant gas is suitable for industrial refrigeration applications, air-conditioning systems in residential buildings and air-source heat pumps. It has already been used to replace R410, which is commonly used in air-source heat pumps.
The F-gas Regulation prohibits the use of gases that accelerate global warming in air-conditioning devices containing less than 3.0 kg of refrigerant. In practice, the Regulation applies to all conventional air-to-air pumps / air-source heat pumps.
R410A, used in current air-source heat pumps, is a blend of R32 and R125 with a mass ratio of 50/50. The ban will come into force at the beginning of 2025, but manufacturers have already taken steps to prepare for the future.
As a flammable refrigerant, it is not suitable as a direct replacement for R410A. The flammability of R32 must be taken into account during recovery. However, the substance only ignites at concentrations of 14-30%.
Alternatives to R32 refrigerant gas
It can be replaced with R410A, which is also a refrigerant being phased out.
