As the cooling industry continues to phase down the use of refrigerants with higher Global Warming Potential (GWP), options that are less harmful to the environment are gaining more traction in a range of applications. However, it’s essential to clearly understand their unique properties for a safe and successful implementation. Specifically, A2L refrigerant classification includes those that are mildly flammable yet pose lower risk than other equally flammable alternatives. Continue reading to learn more. 

What refrigerants are A2L?

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning (ASHRAE) has in place an unambiguous system to assign designations to refrigerants’ flammability and toxicity. In this case, A2L stands for non-toxic, flammable, and low burning velocity. The refrigerants that belong in this class include:

These refrigerants have lower toxicity and flammability than others, which makes this category the second safest. 

What are the key characteristics of A2L refrigerants?

There are several essential features that distinguish A2Ls from other types of refrigerants. They include: 

• Mild flammability. In practice, this means that they need at least a thousand times more energy to ignite compared to most A3 refrigerant types. For example, they’re not likely to ignite from a space heater or a discarded cigarette. Even naked flames can’t easily ignite them in test conditions. In addition, due to their low burning velocity, even if ignition occurs, the flame is likely to burn slowly and eventually self-extinguish. 

• Non-explosive. While they are classified as mildly flammable, they’re considered non-explosive under typical conditions. Their slow-burning rate makes them far less hazardous than more flammable or explosive refrigerants. 

• Low global warming potential. They’re designed to have a much lower GWP than traditional options such as R-410A and R-134a. It helps minimize their environmental impact and comply with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

• Low toxicity. The “A” category of toxicity implies they are generally safe to use in systems that are properly designed and maintained. 

• High energy efficiency. They offer better energy efficiency than many other options with higher GWP, helping HVAC systems operate more efficiently while reducing both energy consumption and operating costs. 

• Pressure and compatibility. Because they can operate at similar pressures as the older high-GWP refrigerants, they’re compatible with most existing HVAC system designs, only requiring some modifications. However, it’s still necessary to implement proper safety measures. 

• Compliance with regulations. They are being adopted in response to global environmental regulations, such as the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, aiming to phase down high-GWP refrigerants. 

What is the A2L refrigerant transition?

In 2020, the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act authorized the EPA to decrease the use and production of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). This requires HVAC manufacturers to move to the next level of low-GWP refrigerants for all new commercial and residential HVAC systems produced as of Jan 1, 2025. In addition, any remaining residential HVAC split systems can only be installed until Jan 1, 2026. Remaining self-contained or packaged HVAC units can be installed through Jan 1, 2028. While the transition requires some modifications, safety protocols and best practices are largely the same. 

Our specialists in A2L refrigerant classification are here to help you secure a smooth transition

The Gustave A. Larson company is your reliable resource for any aspect of the transition to low-GWP refrigerants. We’re highly committed to assisting you in navigating all the necessary industry modifications. We partner with the industry’s leading brands and offer expert A2L training to make sure you’re thoroughly prepared and equipped for the upcoming changes. Rely on our experience and make sure you provide your customers with highly efficient HVAC solutions that are in line with the latest regulations and sustainable practices. Get in touch with us today!