Behind the scenes: HFC refrigerant phase-down in Australia
Are you wondering what the HFC phase-down means for you? It delivers a range of benefits including reduced costs, better air conditioner performance, lower emissions, and improved energy efficiency. Whether you own an air conditioner or you intend to purchase one, find out how HFC phase-down is going to affect you in this week’s blog.,
What is an HFC refrigerant?
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are a type of synthetic greenhouse gas, mostly used as air conditioning refrigerants. Air con manufacturers introduced them for this purpose in the late 1980s in order to replace harmful chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
Whilst HFCs have a zero ozone depletion potential (ODP), they do, however, have a high global warming potential (GWP). For instance, one tonne of HFC 23 is equivalent to releasing 14,800 tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. So there was a need for change.
Source: The Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating
Do you want to find out which refrigerants are better alternatives for your air conditioner? Call your local expert at Jaric Air Conditioning and get valuable insights today!
What is the ‘HFC phase-down’ in Australia and how does it work?
The HFC phase-down is an Australian government measure to help the country meet its international commitments to the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment.
Started in January 2018, this acts as a gradual reduction in the maximum amount of HFCs imported into Australia. Together with other developed countries, Australia aims to reduce with 85% the production and use of HFC by the year 2036:
Source: The Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating
How will the phase-down affect air con owners?
For one thing, the HFC phase-down is not going to affect existing equipment but rather to encourage adoption of safe, sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies. Considering the relatively slow pace of the change, no one is required to replace their HFC air conditioners immediately.
In the meantime, different governmental bodies and non-profit organisations have been actively starting to raise awareness amongst air con owners. No matter the environment – residential, commercial or industrial – it is highly important to have a licensed electrician handle refrigerants, especially if you suspect a leak.
At Jaric Air Conditioning, all our specialists have the ARC “tick” and can carefully locate the source of the problem. Therefore, you’ll know whether repairing or replacing the unit is the most cost-effective solution. We aim to perform high-quality maintenance to your air con and ultimately save you money and energy in the long term.
Ask for advice from your local air conditioning expert
If you need any air conditioning services, call Jaric Air Conditioning at 1300 452 742 and get personalised advice and solutions for your home and business.
