Understanding F-Gas Regulation and Its Impact
Introduction:
Importance: Compliance with the F-Gas Regulation is crucial for those working with refrigerants to future-proof businesses and buildings.
Challenges: Navigating the legislation can be daunting, but experienced providers like Lunar Ltd offer support.
What is the F-Gas Regulation?
Implementation: Established by the European Parliament in 2015.
Objective: Reduce hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 79% between 2015 and 2030 using a quota system.
GWP: Global Warming Potential measures the heat a greenhouse gas traps in comparison to carbon dioxide.
Upcoming Regulatory Bans
2022:
Ban on virgin refrigerants with GWP > 150 in new hermetically sealed commercial refrigeration.
Affected refrigerant: R134a.
2025:
Ban on virgin refrigerants with GWP > 750 in single split air conditioning systems with <3kg charge.
Affected refrigerants: R134a, R407C, R410A.
2030:
Ban on reclaimed refrigerants with GWP > 2500 for equipment with >40T CO2 equivalent charge.
Affected refrigerants: R404a, R507.
Options for High GWP or Obsolete Refrigerants
System Replacement vs. Refrigerant Conversion:
Conversion: Often cheaper and less disruptive, but consider the system’s remaining life and the replacement refrigerant’s lifespan.
Alternatives:
- R22 Systems: Retrofit with R407C (phased out by 2025 for <3kg systems).
- R410A Systems: Not affected if >3kg charge; <3kg systems need alternatives like R32.
- R404A Systems: New installations banned since 2020, with servicing allowed until 2030. Alternatives include R449A, R448A, R452A, R454C, R455A.
- R134a Systems: New installations banned from 2022, with alternatives like R1234ze, R450A, R513A.
Natural Refrigerants
Definition: Industrially manufactured but naturally occurring substances with low or zero GWP.
Types:
- Propane (R290): GWP of 3, used in industrial refrigeration, small AC systems, and domestic heat pumps.
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2): GWP <1, used in air-to-water heat pumps and various refrigeration applications.
Future-Proofing Strategies
Proactive Measures: Invest in energy-efficient equipment, train staff, and stay informed about regulatory changes and emerging technologies. Learn more about the latest standards at the Institute of Refrigeration (IOR).
Support
Lunar Ltd offers expert advice and solutions for compliance and optimal system performance. Contact us at our contact page or call 01524 64273 to ensure you stay compliant with the current F-Gas regulations.
