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Things You Didn’t Know About Refrigerant Fluids

CM Heating - What You Need to Know About Refrigerant Fluid

Your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home is a composition of many parts that come together to create magical cooling or warming temperatures for your home. Thanks to the wonderfully synced operation of components like the compressor, refrigerant fluid, coils, air ducts, and filters, we get to come home to a comfortable atmosphere. 

This article is dedicated to the wonder that is refrigerant fluid. What is this fluid, and what do we know about it? Below, our refrigerant fluid enthusiasts (aka AC repair techs in Bothell, WA) share their vast knowledge of the basic facts about this fluid. 

1. What Is Refrigerant Fluid?

Refrigerant fluid is the chemical substance that makes air conditioning possible. This substance runs through AC coils and performs the essential function of cooling the warm air absorbed by the unit. 

It works by being compressed and then evaporated and condensed before being released into the home. Thanks to refrigerant fluid, our air conditioning units are able to remove heat from the air, causing it to cool our homes. Without this fluid, the AC will simply not function according to its design. 

2. There are Different Types of Refrigerant Fluids

If you go to a store and ask the sales clerk for refrigerant fluid, they will most likely ask about the type you need as they come in various forms. The most common types of refrigerant fluids on the market are R-22, R-410A, and R-134a. 

These refrigerant fluids come with their own characteristics, and the one you choose for your AC will depend on the manufacturer’s guidelines. However, it is important to note R-22 is currently being phased out of the American market and is becoming increasingly difficult to buy due to availability. Consult your AC repair tech in Denham Springs, LA, about which refrigerant fluid is best for your unit.

3. Refrigerant Fluids are Classified by Their Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP)

Unfortunately, refrigerant fluids have the potential to deplete the ozone layer and are classified based on their potential to do so. This potential is measured by how much damage the fluid can do to the ozone layer. The refrigerant fluid R-22 is being phased out because of this very reason.

4. Refrigerant Fluids are Also Classified By Their Global Warming Potential

GWP is a measurement of how much a refrigerant fluid substance will contribute to global warming over a period of 100 years. Refrigerant fluids are continually monitored and tested for this potential. When it is found that a fluid, like R-22, has a high GWP, it will be phased out of use permanently. If your AC currently uses R-22, your AC repair tech in Bothell, WA may speak to you about finding a different fluid like R-410A that would be compatible with your unit. 

5. It is a Recyclable Fluid

The last two facts were a bit discouraging as we often like to focus on being as environmentally friendly as possible. But the good news is that most refrigerant fluids can be recycled and reused. Doing so helps reduce the environmental impact of air conditioning systems. A reputable AC repair tech in Bothell, WA will take extra measures to properly recycle and dispose of refrigerant fluids without the risk of polluting the environment.

6. Refrigerant Fluids Must Be Handled by a Professional

When handled improperly, refrigerant fluids can be extremely hazardous. If they come into contact with the skin, they can cause frostbite. Additionally, if any of the fluid is inhaled, it can cause lung problems. Thus, following the appropriate safety procedures when handling refrigerant fluids is extremely important to avoid these types of injuries.

In addition to being potentially hazardous to one’s health, refrigerant fluid can be harmful to the environment, particularly when it begins to leak out of the AC coils. This is because it releases harmful gases into the atmosphere. These gasses lead to environmental issues, as we discussed previously. Because of these potentially harmful effects of refrigerant fluid, it is important to leave all related services to a licensed AC repair tech in Bothell, WA. 

7. Refrigerant Fluids are Continually Being Improved

Because of the harmful effects many refrigerant fluids pose to the environment and the health of its inhabitants, new refrigerant technologies are in the process of being developed. These new developments will soon replace many of the harmful refrigerant fluids that are currently in use. Thanks to modern innovation and scientific research, the new developments in HVAC and refrigeration will serve as a reduction effort of the environmental impact of refrigeration and air conditioning systems.

Top AC Repair Tech in Bothell, WA 

Refrigerant fluid sure is interesting and though we can write oodles of pages about it, we’re afraid that not everyone is as enthusiastic about it as the AC technicians at CM Heating Comfort Masters. If you suspect your AC has a refrigerant fluid issue, contact us today for a quick and easy resolution. With our expert care, your AC will serve you for many years to come.

 

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