Which gas is used in the Air Conditioner? Wait, is there a ‘gas’ in the Air Conditioner? Of course, and it matters just as much. This ‘gas’ used in the Air Conditioner is known as the ‘refrigerant’ and it is the component that circulates throughout the system and helps in the cooling process. So how does that happens? And what happens to the refrigerant after it is done with the cooling part? Let us try and answer these vital questions.
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What is a ‘coolant’?
Also known as the ‘Refrigerant,’ the coolant is the gas that circulates throughout the system of your Air Conditioner. Scientifically speaking, the refrigerant is a substance that changes from the Liquid form to the Gaseous form and then back. Large amounts of heat are absorbed in this process, thus cooling the nearby ‘space.’ The heat released is directly proportional to the volume of the refrigerant used at the time.
What makes an Ideal Coolant?
For a Gas to be used as a Coolant, it should be:
- Have favourable Thermodynamic properties
- Should be non-corrosive
- Should be non-toxic
- Should be non-flammable
What the Law Says?
Yes, well-placed laws are governing the use of refrigerants as well. These have been established by the EPA, which ensures the responsible handling and disposal of the refrigerants.
- It is a must that low-loss fitting must be utilized to limit the release of refrigerants via the Air Conditioners.
- It is the responsibility of the technicians to recapture, dispose and recycle the coolant safely.
- All appliances that utilize coolants must be disposed of as per the EPA disposal rules.
- It is mandatory to repair any refrigerant leaks within 30 days.
- The purchase of Air Conditioners can be granted to only those companies that have licensed ventilation, heating, and air conditioning.
- Any reported violation of any of these laws can result in harsh punishment and also a chargeable fee.
What are the Different Types of Refrigerants?
Yes, refrigerants are available in various types and should be used accordingly. The earliest known refrigerants used are R22 with a molecular formula of CHCLF2. The main reason for their popularity is the fact that they can easily transform within ‘States’.
Let us take a look at some of the best-known Coolants:
1. Hydrochlorofluorocarbons ( HCFCs)
During the early 1990s and 2000’s the HCFC successfully replaced the CFCs. The most common HCFC is R-22 and is considered to be the best refrigerant as it is high on Chlorine. Nevertheless, the HCFC is known to have harmful effects on the Ozone and the environment.
2. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
These were the first known refrigerants and were commonly called Freon. This was also the brand name for the refrigerant, also known as R-12 by Dupont. However, these CFCs were found to be harmful to the environment and were soon discontinued.
3. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC’s)
This refrigerant type was very much the same, except they did not contain any Chlorine. Despite having certain threats to the environment, they still are better as they do not damage the Ozone layer. The most commonly used HFC’s are R-410A and are also known to be energy efficient. Other well-known HFCs known is R-32 and R-134A.
4. Hydrocarbons (HC)
These are the best-known refrigerants in the market and are used widely. The most well-known HC’s used are R-290 and R-600A. The Chemical name of this Hydrocarbon is Propane for R-290 and Iso-Butane for R-600A. This Hydrocarbon is considered the best because it does not have any adverse effect on the environment, is Halogen-free, does not damage the Ozone, and does not contribute to global warming. Though high energy is efficient, these are highly flammable. These are also known as ‘Green refrigerants’ as the manufacturers claim that they are the safest. However, it should be considered that the R-410A is the best in terms of air quality, comfort, and reliability.
What Refrigerant Gas Do to the Environment?
- Despite their widespread utilization in the Air Conditioning systems, the Refrigerants are not eco-friendly. They surely cool our homes but are subsequently causing a good deal of Global warmings. As a responsible citizen of the world, one must bear in mind a few simple yet important facts about Air Conditioners. Be sure to purchase a model that has been manufactured after the year 2003. This is because they utilize coolants that are safe and eco-friendly. For the lesser-known users, be sure to opt for an Air Conditioner that utilizes coolants like R-290. If each one of us understood the importance of the benefit to the environment and chose eco-friendly models, it will bring up the manufacturing rate of such models. Likewise, the other eco-friendly option is R-600A, which is not only great for cooling but also works great for the environment as well.
Before You Go:
As a responsible user, you must bear in mind that refrigerants of any type can catch flames under higher temperatures. That is why it is advised to install your Air Conditioner at a cool place away from direct sunlight.
In case you discover that your Air Conditioner ‘says’ R22, it is time to do some serious thinking. However, keep in mind that you cannot simply replace the R22 with R 290 because the two are not compatible. So, for the best results, if you do encounter any refrigerant-related problem, you must consider upgrading to a better Air Conditioner with an eco-friendly coolant component. This might be a little expensive; nevertheless, it is both effective and efficient at the same time.
Also Read:
- How Air Conditioner Works?
- Air Cooler Vs Air Conditioner(AC): Which is Better?
- What Is The Best Temperature For AC in Summers?
- Reciprocating Vs Rotary- Air Conditioner(AC) Compressor-which one is Better?
- The Most Common Reasons For AC Not Cooling
- Central AC Vs. Split AC-Which One You Should Buy?
- Split AC Vs. Window AC- Which One Should I Buy?