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How A2L sensors make sure refrigerants don't blow(up)
What HVAC engineers need to know about A2L The HVAC industry is no stranger to design trade-offs. In fact, it is staring down an industry-wide redesign thanks to the adoption — and trade-offs — of A2L refrigerants. Historically, refrigerants have been harsh on the environment. This led to the phaseout of formulations with high ozone depletion potential (ODP). Since the phaseout started in the early 2000s, the UNEP estimates that the ozone layer will fully recover by mid-century. Unfortunately, these replacement refrigerants came with a price — global warming potential (GWP). Even newer refrigerants are now destined to replace those with high GWP, but they also come with a price — flammability. But don’t be alarmed; engineers are designing modifications to HVAC systems, standards, and procedures to ensure everyone’s safe, and the only things that blow are the fans.
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