Question: What is A2L, and what are the implications of changes beginning in 2025 with refrigerant R-454B to DX coils for use in Catalog and Semi-Catalog AHUs and shipping coils?
Answer: The A2L-compliant equipment will have dedicated changes to the unit, such as leak detection sensor and labeling. Shipping coils will require field installed leak detection to be compliant with regulatory requirements for A2L.
A2L is a refrigerant safety classification that indicates a refrigerant has low toxicity and low flammability. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) uses a letter and number system to classify refrigerants, with the first letter indicating toxicity and the second and third digits indicating flammability.
Here's what the A2L classification means:
A: Indicates lower toxicity
2: Indicates lower flammability
L: Indicates low burning velocity
A2L refrigerants are considered the second safest refrigerant category. They have a lower global warming potential (GWP) than other refrigerants and are more energy efficient than R-410A and transcritical CO₂ systems. A2L refrigerants are also safer than ammonia and hydrocarbon refrigerants.
A2L refrigerants are being used to replace older, high-impact refrigerants in air conditioning and commercial refrigeration systems. They are helping businesses meet the goals of the Montreal Protocol, the Kigali Amendment, the U.S. AIM Act, Canada's ODSHAR, and the EU Green Deal.
Introduction
Scientific research has shown that certain man-made chemicals can affect the earth’s naturally occurring stratospheric ozone layer when released into the atmosphere. In particular, several identified chemicals that may affect the ozone layer are refrigerants containing Chlorine, Fluorine, and Carbon (CFCs) and those containing Hydrogen, Chlorine, Fluorine, and Carbon (HCFCs). Not all refrigerants containing these compounds have the same potential impact on the environment. Trane advocates for the responsible handling of all refrigerants.
Important Responsible Refrigerant Practices
Trane believes that responsible refrigerant practices are crucial for the environment, our customers, and the air conditioning industry. All technicians who handle refrigerants must be certified according to local rules. In the USA, the Federal Clean Air Act (Section 608) sets forth the requirements for handling, reclaiming, recovering, and recycling certain refrigerants and the equipment used in these service procedures. Additionally, some states or municipalities may have additional requirements that must also be adhered to for responsible management of refrigerants. It is essential to know and follow the applicable laws.
R-454B Flammable A2L Refrigerant
Warning: Failure to use proper equipment or components as described below could result in equipment failure, and possibly fire, which could result in death, serious injury, or equipment damage.
The equipment described in this manual uses R-454B refrigerant, which is flammable (A2L). Use ONLY R-454 B rated service equipment and components. For specific handling concerns with R-454B, contact your local representative.