Did you know that air conditioning systems use a liquid cooling agent known as ‘refrigerant’ which is housed within their coils? Refrigerant is sometimes referred to as the ‘lifeblood’ of the air conditioner as it cools and dehumidifies the outside air which is then released into the home.

We take a look at the next-generation refrigerant R32 and why this is the best way to go when purchasing an air conditioner.

From HCFCs to HFCs

For many years the common refrigerant for air conditioners was R-22, also known as Freon. But due to R-22 being a hydro-chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), which contributes to ozone depletion, this has been discontinued for use in new air conditioning systems.

Instead, hydro-fluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants such as R-410A have been adopted in industrialised countries, with developing countries following suit. But although HFCs don’t harm the ozone layer, they do contribute to global warming, so air conditioning experts have bypassed R410A and concentrated on developing a next-generation refrigerant.

Next-generation refrigerants are the future of air conditioning because they have an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero and low global warming potential (GWP).

Why R32 is the Best Next-Generation Refrigerant

Daikin is the only company in the world that makes both air conditioners and refrigerants, so it makes sense that they would be the first to develop a new refrigerant for air conditioners. After numerous tests of different refrigerants they decided that the best was R32. Although still a type of HFC it has ‘one-third the global warming potential of conventional refrigerants’.

The characteristics of R32 that makes it better for the environment and for household use are:

• It doesn’t impact on the ozone layer and has a low global warming rating.
• It isn’t toxic and has a low risk of flammability.
• It is low cost which means air conditioners can be produced at reasonable prices.
• It has the capacity to cool as well as conventional refrigerants while offering energy efficiency during use.

Daikin Air Conditioners With R32 Refrigerant

Daikin has been using pure R32 refrigerant in their air conditioners since November 2012 when they were released on the Japanese market. Shortly afterwards in March 2013, they were released for sale in India, and in Europe in November 2013. In Australia, the sale of R32 air conditioners began in January 2014.

The refrigerant R32 is currently used in Daikin’s new split systems including the Ururu Sarara 7, Zena and the Cora Series, which offer superior performance and energy efficiency. The Ururu Sarara 7, along with modern comfort features of humidification, dehumidification, fresh air ventilation and air purification, has the world’s highest energy efficiency rating.

For professional advice on Daikin’s range of energy efficient and environmentally friendly air conditioners, contact Star today!