HVAC SPECIALIST, HEINEN HOPMAN ON THE IMMINENT PHASE OUT OF HFC REFRIGERANTS AND THE ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS AVAILABLE
In October 2016, the HFC phase down became a part of the Montreal Protocol and many governments are applying measures for reducing high Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants consumption, such as GWP weighted taxes. As a result, refrigerant manufacturers increase their prices regularly as they state that end users should switch to lower-GWP alternatives.Prices for several high-GWP refrigerants have risen sharply this year. Next year, a significant step will be taken in the phase down of authorised HFC volume on the market: the HFC quota is reduced by 37%. It is almost certain that price increases will follow. Not only the prices of refrigerants R404A and R507 are under pressure, also R404A alternative R407A becomes much more expensive and soon the price of R134a will rise by 40%.
Fear of serious deficiencies
With these price increases, which lead to a total price increase of more than 62 percent in just one month, the end of price inflations are not yet in sight. Also other refrigerant providers announced similar increases last March and further price increases are expected. This development does not happen at a time when major shortages of high-GWP refrigerants are feared. From these F-gas regulations next year’s F-gas phase-down will be reduced further, up to 63 percent of the 2015 level.
Options left
I can reassure you: your current HVAC and refrigeration system can keep running for years to come. At the moment there is no need to change your refrigerant as your system was built for running on this refrigerant. For new systems, we are looking over the options left. It is impossible to foresee exactly how the market will react to the new mechanisms of the updated F-gas regulative, but below diagram could be a good indication.As we expect most high-GWP refrigerants will be phased out over the years, we are now looking over the options to implement low-GWP refrigerants like R1234yf, R1234ze, R449a and natural refrigerants ammonia, carbon dioxide, propane and water in our HVAC and refrigeration systems. Currently we are testing those options which will fit installation on board the best. Substitutes
When refrigerants cannot be replaced anymore, or it is very expensive to replace it, there are other options available. In below diagram we give options to substitute your current refrigerant. Warning: not all substitutes are drop-in replacement refrigerants. Personal advice
The air conditioning system has a great impact on the ambience and comfort onboard. When stepping indoors, you expect to chill out in an area with the right temperature and humidity level. Furthermore, the air conditioning should be whisper quiet and – most importantly – work perfectly at all times. We take good care of our clients by offering global 24/7 service and spare parts availability. You can count on us any time you may need HVAC assistance. We support clients with our personal service and proactive advice: before, during and after developing a solution. A healthy HVAC system minimizes the risk of system failure – causing down time at inconvenient moments – and guarantees an optimal indoor climate while simultaneously reducing power consumption. The result: an energy-efficient, healthy and environmentally friendly HVAC system. Besides offering periodic maintenance, we also offer contractual 24/7 service, including telephonic support and fast action. For personal onboard advice on your refrigerant, please contact our La Ciotat office.
For more details Tel: +334 4204 8685
or visit www.heinenhopmanfrance.com
