In fact, R-32 is a single component refrigerant, while R-454B is a blend that consists of nearly 70% R-32. R-32 has been safely used in over 160 million units in the US and around the world by more than 40 OEMs.
R32, R452B, and R454B replacements for R410A are all classed as 2L: mildly flammable. These A2L refrigerants offer only moderate limitations in charge for direct expansion systems and no limitations for indirect expansion systems such as chillers, when located outdoor or in technical rooms.
Changes to the Dangerous Goods Legislation, effective in 2021, has new categories for A2L refrigerants. R32 is a synthetic greenhouse gas. If released to the atmosphere it can contribute to climate change. R32 is a flammable refrigerant.
R32 is a HFC refrigerant, used as a replacement for R410A in low temperature refrigeration and air-conditioning applications. This refrigerant is a preferred replacement for R410A in new equipment.
R454B, also known as Puron Advanced, is a next-generation refrigerant designed to replace R410A. It maintains similar performance levels but has a much lower GWP, meaning it contributes less to global warming. This makes it a better choice for the environment while keeping your home comfortable.
Right now the globally accepted direct GWP threshold by HVAC system designers and building consultants is 750. R32's direct GWP exceeds this threshold, and is 45% higher than R454B's, making R454B the more sustainable choice. The lower the GWP, the better.
R-454B is NOT a drop-in replacement for R-410A.
R32 refrigerant is also known as difluoromethane and belongs to the HFC family of refrigerant. This gas is poised to replace the other gaseous such as R-410A and R-407C as the preferred gas due to its lower Global Warming Potential. Its chemical formula is CH2F2.
In summary, the safety classification of R-454B as an A2L refrigerant ensures that it aligns with rigorous safety standards. The combination of low burning velocity and stringent safety measures in design and implementation minimizes potential risks associated with its flammable nature.
Compatibility: R32 is compatible with existing air conditioning systems that use R22 and R410A, making it a suitable alternative for retrofitting existing systems. However, it's important to consider compatibility with the specific system and components before retrofitting to R32.
The limited supply and more complex manufacturing process of R454B compared to its predecessor R410A contribute to its higher cost.
If the refrigerant used for the existing unit is other than R22, R407C and R410A, the existing refrigerant piping cannot be used. If the existing unit has another use than air conditioning, then existing refrigerant piping cannot be used.
In the first half of 2024 we'll phase out our R-410A dedicated models and introduce -01 refrigerant versatile models, compatible with both R-410A and R-454B refrigerants.
Exposure hazards: Flammable. In combustion emits toxic fumes. Forms explosive air-vapour mixture. Advice for fire-fighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus.
Disadvantages:Different from R22 and R410A, the R32 is slightly flammable. But combustion will not occur unless three critical conditions are met, refrigerant concentration, constant oxygen, and an ignition source. In real practice, it's hard to meet all the combustion conditions.
Trane is phasing in the transition to R-454B in 2024, starting with the adoption of R-454B refrigerant in its residential products, beginning with the XR15 SEER2 heat pump.
Environmental Impact: R32's Green Credentials
While R454 blends, such as R454B, do offer a lower GWP (often below 500), the slight environmental advantage they provide doesn't outweigh the overall benefits of R32—especially when you consider R32's superior energy efficiency.
This refrigerant is considered a lower global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant. R-454B, formerly known as DL-5A, has been selected by several manufacturers, including Mitsubishi Electric, Carrier, Johnson Controls, Trane, and others.
For homeowners, the 2025 refrigerant changes mean new air conditioning systems purchased after this date will likely use R-32, R-454B, or other low-GWP refrigerants.
R454b is a mildly flammable, low-GWP refrigerant developed as a replacement for R410a in new HVAC systems. With thermodynamic properties closely resembling R410a, it enables a seamless and cost-effective transition without the need for major system modifications.
Difluoromethane, also called difluoromethylene, HFC-32 Methylene Fluoride or R-32, is an organic compound of the dihalogenoalkane variety. Invented in 1964 by Hoechst AG (not Daikin) it has the formula of CH2F2.
Regulatory - There are no published regulations or granted EPA petitions that state R-32 will be prohibited in the U.S. after 2029. In fact, R-32 is a single component refrigerant, while R-454B is a blend that consists of nearly 70% R-32.
R-32 is a single component refrigerant, so topping off an R-32 system should not be an issue. R-454B is a refrigerant blend but has a very low fractionation potential and a very low temperature glide, so topping off an R-454B system should not be an issue.
Damage to system: Using the wrong refrigerant can cause your system to malfunction or even break down, which can significantly reduce its life span. Voiding warranties: Using a refrigerant other than the one intended by the manufacturer will automatically void your warranty in many cases.
As far the compressor oil is concerned, R-454B can be used with the same types of oil that are used today with R-410A. And unlike R-32, R-454B has similar miscibility and viscosity to R-410A with standard POE oils.