New
legislation brought in under The Kyoto Protocol is enforcing
the removal and replacement of the low temperature refrigerant-
R22 refrigeration system. These changes in legislation will affect
any company that sustains the need for or has a requirement for
R22 refrigeration.
Why are the R22 legislation changes being made?
R22 refrigerant has a detrimental effect on the ozone layer resulting
in excessive UV levels. Due to this, the R22 refrigerants may contribute
to further environmental damage. Many affected companies have taken
the opportunity to comply with the new regulations earlier than
planned. This is being demonstrated at two levels:
Firstly, the majority of R22 refrigeration units are at least one
third of their way through their foreseeable life. As existing
R22 refrigeration systems begin to require replacing, the majority
of companies are choosing to phase these out rather than go to
the expense of needlessly repairing or maintaining them
.
Secondly, all new air conditioning systems will now use refrigerants
such R407c and R410a which have zero or very little ozone depleting
potential. These refrigerants are also proven to be more energy
efficient than the R22 refrigerant and are therefore a wiser and
more popular choice for the companies in question.
What are your companies alternatives to R22?
Most companies that are affected by the R22 legislation will have
a policy to specify only the following environmentally friendly
refrigerants are incorporated in new equipment:, R404A and R407c.
The chosen alternative is decided at business unit level and is
usually dependant upon the business’ requirements towards
energy efficiency.
When do the changes have to be completed by?
Although many companies have undergone, or are in the process of
exchanging their R22 refrigerants, huge conversions still need
to be undertaken to ensure that the 2010 deadline for replacement
of equipment and the 2015 deadline for completely phasing out R22
refrigerants is accomplished.
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