Air conditioning systems consist of several key aspects which are designed to work together to provide efficient and effective operation.
A crucial element of any air conditioning unit is the refrigerant, which is responsible for cooling the air which circulates through your home or business via your air conditioning system. Without refrigerant, an air conditioning system cannot work properly.
However, when it comes to topping up the refrigerant, it’s important to note that several types exist. This means the correct type for your particular system can differ from other air conditioning units on the market.
Lee Jackson Air Conditioning are UK air conditioning specialists.
In today’s post, we will run you through the different types of air conditioning refrigerants that exist. Plus, some top signs to look out for which suggest your refrigerant is the cause of a problem.
What Is Air Conditioner Refrigerant?
Air conditioner refrigerant is a type of chemical fluid or gas. It performs the function of absorbing heat from the indoor air and releasing it outside, which in turn allows the indoor environment to stay cool.
Since an air conditioner refrigerant lives inside the unit itself and requires specialist training to handle it safely, it is likely that, as a building owner, you will never see the refrigerant itself.
However, we’ll cover some key properties about the different refrigerant types. If the refrigerant is in gas form, it’s invisible but may produce a faint chemical smell if it is leaking. As with any refrigerant leak, this would warrant an immediate repair of the unit, as inhalation is dangerous.
Liquid refrigerants often have a colourless appearance and are very cold, meaning they can cause frostbite if they come into contact with the skin.
Finally, some air conditioning refrigerants are also in liquid form. They are distinguishable from each other due to being stored in colour-coded tanks.
The Different Types Of Air Conditioner Refrigerant
We’ve touched upon the different types of air conditioning refrigerant in terms of their basic matter (i.e. liquid or gas). However, the type of refrigerant required for your particular air conditioning unit will usually go by a specific code name.
R-410A – This type of air conditioning refrigerant features in systems produced between 2003 and 2020. It remains popular, although its higher GWP (global warming potential) means that it’s more harmful to the environment.
R32 – This is the newest and most popular option, due to R32 having a low GWP. It’s the refrigerant of choice for all newly installed air conditioning units.
R22 – Finally, we will include R22 as there are many older air conditioning systems which still use it. However, since 2010, R22 has been phased out. It’s now illegal to use it R22 in UK systems due to its environmental impact.
How Long Does Air Conditioner Refrigerant Last?
Air conditioning units are permanently sealed systems, meaning any refrigerant which is added during the time of installation will remain in the system. Generally, the total lifespan is around 10-15 years.
The only exception to this is if there is a leak in the air conditioning system.
Air Conditioning Issues Which May Be Related To Refrigerant
- Poor cooling performance
- Longer run times
- Hissing/gurgling noises
- Ice buildup on the indoor coil
- Compressor short-cycling
- Increased energy bills
- The system may shut down
- No cooling or very poor airflow
- High pressure readings
- Compressor overheating
What To Do If You Suspect A Refrigerant Problem
It’s important to call a certified F-Gas engineer if your air conditioning unit has any issues, including where a leak is suspected. You should never attempt to open or refill the system yourself, as this is dangerous.
At Lee Jackson Air Conditioning, we can provide air conditioning repairs if you suspect your current system is faulty. Alternatively, we can replace an ageing system with a more modern type, which will also meet the current standards for safety and efficiency.
Book An Air Conditioning Servicing Or Repair – Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire & Leicester
If you have any queries about your air conditioning refrigerant or the general performance of the system, it’s time to call our experts.
Lee Jackson Air Conditioning is based in Nottinghamshire, and we serve the wider East Midlands, including Derbyshire and Leicester.
Please send us a message to arrange an air conditioning installation or repair.
Or, for any help or advice, please give us a call on 0800 949 9070.
