Freon Substitutes for an HVAC in a Home

HFCs

• Similar to chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) contain nearly the same properties as Freon but possess no damaging agent to the ozone layer, the atmospheric “shield” that protects the planet from damaging ultraviolet rays. This leads to their heavy use in modern cooling equipment since chlorine, the prime suspect blamed for eating away at the ozone layer, is excluded. Some appliance manufacturers are already beginning to phase out the use of HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons) to rid the inclusion of chlorine altogether.

HCFCs

• Unlike HFCs, HCFCs contain small amounts of chlorine and are still widely in use by appliance manufacturers. Commercially this chemical compound is known as HCFC-22, the chief blend of gas favored among appliance companies. An alternative to HCFC is Free Zone, also known as R-409A. Regardless of whichever is chosen, one added benefit to the chemicals is that they can be used to retrofit an existing fridge whereas some chemicals are permissible in new units only.

Other Alternatives

• A medium exists between the two Freon replacements that subdivides HFC into two distinctions: hydrocarbon Blend A and Blend B. Commercially these are sold as OZ-12 and HC-12, respectively. While these two offerings are ranked very low on the Environmental Protection Agency’s scale that measures ozone effects, both OZ chemical blends are highly flammable. These chemicals also lie outside EPA governance but still may fall under jurisdiction by local authorities, so it’s best to check with local codes to ensure you comply with the law before retrofitting your unit with these blends.

A Word of Caution

• Besides some Freon alternatives being flammable or not under EPA regulation, some of the chemicals share a basic trait with Freon: They are not to be handled by the average consumer and should only be handled by licensed repair techs. While consumers may purchase these chemicals, only refrigeration technicians trained in filling units with the chemicals should be tasked with retrofitting home fridge and freezer units.