What Are the Benefits of an R-410A Air Conditioner?

History

• In 1991, AlliedSignal, now known as Honeywell, came out with a new refrigerant called AZ-20, which was later given the generic name R-410A. Honeywell undertook a development program with Carrier Corporation, and in 1995 the two companies introduced the first air conditioning units that utilized R-410A refrigerant. At that time, most air conditioners used R-22, which is an HCFC refrigerant that contributes to the depletion of ozone in the atmosphere. Global initiatives such as the United Nations Montreal Protocol prompted manufacturers to start developing products that did not contain HCFC. Subsequently, other manufacturers began producing air conditioners that use R-410A refrigerant.

Composition

• According to Honeywell, the chemical composition of R-410A refrigerant facilitates its consistent distribution across the air conditioning system. The company also claims that R-410A refrigerant captures warm air and releases it more efficiently than air conditioners using R-22 refrigerant. This allows a R-410A unit to use less refrigerant than an R-22 air conditioner, decreasing the amount of refrigerant used and increasing overall energy efficiency. It also reduces the size of the system components and the amount of equipment needed for optimal operation. For example, R-410A air conditioners are able to use smaller condenser units than R-22 air conditioners.

Features

• Along with meeting U.S. Environmental Protection Agency energy-efficiency and environmental standards, R-410A air conditioners operate at low sound levels. Some contain features that improve dehumidification and heat pump functionality. In addition, R-410A air conditioners that feature the Energy Star label may qualify for the 2011 federal tax credit for consumer energy efficiency.

Considerations

• The EPA states that purchasing energy-efficient air conditioners cuts energy costs and helps preserve the environment. Factors such as reliability, performance and cost should also be weighed prior to selecting an AC unit. The EPA advises, “Even if your air conditioner is only 10 years old, you may save significantly on your cooling energy costs by replacing it with a newer, more efficient model.” Look for R-410A units marked with the EPA’s Energy Star label and high seasonal energy efficiency, or SEER, ratio. Air conditioning systems using R-410A refrigerant that display the Energy Star label must possess a minimum SEER ratio, which is substantially higher than the legal minimum.