F-Gas Phase Out – The Next Step

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, not only will it herald the start of a new decade, but it will also mark a significant step in the legislative phase out of F-Gases. From 1st January 2020, refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of over 2,500 will be banned within the commercial refrigeration and air conditioning sectors. This affects not only new equipment but the servicing of existing equipment.

The EU set out updated regulations in 2015, with the aim of reducing the use of Hydroflurocarbons (HFCs) by 80% by 2030 through a phase-down process. In the same year Hydrocholoroflorocarbons (HCFCs), such as R22 refrigerant, were banned.

Over the last 5 years we’ve worked closely with clients, helping them understand the new regulations and their impact on both existing and new equipment.

From an equipment supply perspective, we have a range of highly energy efficient chillers available with low GWP refrigerants, for example R1234ze and R513A which have GWP figures of 7 and 631 respectively. We also offer units with R290 propane, a natural rather than man made refrigerant, which has a GWP of just 3 and can be a great alternative to an ammonia-based system.

When looking at alternative refrigerants, system design is key. It’s important to ensure the correct levels of energy efficiency and cooling power are achieved and that this is balanced with budgetary requirements. Our Sales Engineers are on hand to give you technical advice and to help with product selection every step of the way.

In addition, we have a nationwide network of Service Engineers, all F-Gas trained, giving you peace of mind in respect of all the legislative requirements when it comes to handling refrigerants, detecting leaks, recovering refrigerant from legacy equipment and the necessary documentation and labelling that’s needed. The team can also help with converting existing equipment to lower GWP refrigerants as well as carrying out energy audits, ensuring your site is F-Gas compliant and running as efficiently and cost effectively as possible.

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