Which Gas is Used in AC? Choose The Right Gas

Playing a crucial role in modern life, living without air conditioners (ACs) is impossible. With the temperatures soaring yearly, keeping our homes and offices cool and comfortable is what ACs do. But do you know which gas is used in AC?

Well, ACs rely on refrigeration technology, which helps lower indoor temperatures. These substances absorb heat from indoor air and release it outside so you can live comfortably inside your home.

Refrigerants are integral to air conditioning systems, and cooling is impossible without them. While different types of refrigerants are available, some of those contribute to global warming. This is why knowing which gas is used in AC for cooling is essential. So, before you buy or get an AC on rent, let’s give you an overview of the types of gases used in air conditioners.

Which Gas Is Used In AC?

With various types of gases or coolants available for modern air conditioning systems, you might wonder which gas is used in AC for cooling. 

Earlier, most coolants emitted CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), which were harmful to the ozone layer. Considering the same, manufacturers phased out all the coolants that were not good for the environment. The gases used today are comparatively safer and better than the previous ones.

Knowing the different types of refrigerants helps you to make an informed decision when renting or buying an air conditioner. Not only that, but it also makes repair and maintenance of your system more manageable.

What Is A Refrigerant?

Before we tell you about the different types of refrigerants, let us first understand what a refrigerant is.

Simply put, a refrigerant is a type of fluid that is used in air conditioners and refrigerators. It absorbs heat from the air or stored items and releases it outside. This cooling process occurs through a phase change. When the refrigerant absorbs heat, it turns from liquid to gas, and when compressed, it returns to liquid form. 

The ideal refrigerant is chosen for safety, efficiency, and non-corrosive properties.

Different Types Of AC Refrigerants

When you buy or rent AC online, knowing the type of refrigerant the system uses is essential. Each refrigerant is different and impacts performance, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Modern AC units mainly use eco-friendly refrigerants which do not deplete the ozone layer.

Here are some of the most common AC refrigerant types:

R22 Refrigerant (HCFC-22)

R22, also known as chlorodifluoromethane, was once air conditioners’ most widely used refrigerant. While it provides effective cooling, it contributes to ozone depletion. Due to environmental concerns, R22 is phased out, so newer air conditioners rarely use this gas.

Hydrocarbon Refrigerants (HCs)

Hydrocarbon refrigerants like R290 (propane) are highly efficient and environment-friendly. That’s because they have no impact on the ozone layer. However, they are highly flammable, which limits their use. This particular gas is commonly used in small window ACs because of its strong cooling capacity.

R32 Refrigerant (Difluoromethane)

R32 is the preferred refrigerant in modern inverter and split AC systems due to its superior heat exchange properties, which enhance cooling efficiency. Unlike R22, R32 does not deplete the ozone layer, which makes it an environment-friendly choice. However, it is mildly flammable, so strict safety measures are followed while manufacturing and servicing it.

R410A Refrigerant

R410A is a blend of R125 and R32 in a 50/50 ratio. Like R32, R410A does not harm the ozone layer. Plus, it delivers excellent cooling performance, which is why it is widely used in split ACs. Regarding inverter ACs, using R410A is limited because of system design constraints.

R12 Refrigerant (CFC-12/Freon)

R12 was once a standard refrigerant in air conditioners and automobiles. However, since it has a high ozone depletion potential, it was banned in India and over 100 other countries under the Montreal Protocol in 2010.

As you can see, each refrigerant is unique and has different characteristics. Before you get a new unit on rent, could you enquire about the gas it uses?

How Does A Refrigerant Work?

A refrigerant is essential for cooling systems like air conditioners and refrigerators. That’s because it can change between liquid and gas states at different temperatures.

The process begins when the refrigerant enters the expansion device as a high-pressure liquid. As it passes through, the pressure drops, causing the refrigerant to cool down and turn into a low-pressure liquid.

The low-pressure liquid flows through the evaporator coils inside the air conditioner, which absorbs heat from the surrounding air. This causes the refrigerant to evaporate into a low-pressure gas. This phase change helps remove heat and cool the air inside your home.

The low-pressure gas then moves to the compressor, which is compressed into a high-pressure gas. This high-pressure gas then travels through the condenser coils, releasing the absorbed heat and cooling down. As it cools, it turns into a high-pressure liquid, and the cycle begins. This continuous cycle of evaporation, compression, and condensation allows the refrigerant to keep cooling your home efficiently.

Types Of AC And Their Gas

AC type, design, performance, and size determine which gas is used in AC. Different AC types use different AC gases. In this section, we will give you an overview of the available options to get an idea of what you are dealing with.

Split AC

Split ACs commonly use HFCs like R-32, R410A, or R134A. If yours is a new model, it may use R-32 or R-410A, which are less environmentally harmful. To know which gas is used in split AC, consult your manufacturer.

Window AC

Common refrigerants for window AC include R600A, R290, R410A, R32, and R22. Of all the options, R32 is widely found in modern window AC units due to its high cooling capacity.

Convertible AC

R32 is the most widely used refrigerant in convertible AC units. This AC gas is environmentally friendly and more efficient than other refrigerants. Plus, it consumes less energy.

Dual AC

Dual ACs, including those labeled “dual inverter” ACs, use R32 refrigerant. It is a type of HFC that is less harmful than options like R22. However, you should always check the refrigerant when buying a dual AC.

Standing AC

Most modern standing AC units use R32 refrigerant gas as a more environment-friendly option. However, if you have an older model, it may use R410A, depending on the manufacturer and the age of the unit.

Refrigerants Used In Car AC

For a comfortable driving experience, understanding which refrigerant is used in car AC systems is essential. Car air conditioning transfers heat through a refrigerant, allowing the interior to cool effectively. 

Selecting the right AC gas requires considering safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. As a key to the cooling process, refrigerants undergo a continuous cycle to regulate cabin temperature. The type of gas used in car AC systems ensures this process runs smoothly. 

Here’s an overview of how it functions:

• Compression: The AC compressor pressurises the refrigerant, turning it into a high-temperature gas.
• Condensation: The hot gas flows through the condenser coils, releasing heat and becoming a high-pressure liquid.
• Expansion: The liquid passes through an expansion valve, causing the temperature and pressure to drop.
• Evaporation: Inside the evaporator coils, the refrigerant absorbs cabin heat, evaporates into gas, and cools the air.

This cycle repeats continuously to ensure your car stays cool. This is why choosing the proper refrigerant is crucial, as it helps maintain optimal AC performance while minimising environmental impact.

Common Refrigerants Used In Car AC Systems

Understanding the different types of refrigerants used in car air conditioning helps ensure optimal cooling performance and environmental responsibility. 

Here are the most commonly used AC gases and their characteristics:

1. R134a (Tetrafluoroethane)

R134a has been widely used in vehicles since the 1990s as a replacement for R12, which was phased out due to its ozone-depleting properties.

Advantages:

• Non-flammable and chemically stable
• Readily available
• Affordable
• Safe for use in various climate conditions.

Disadvantages:

• Moderate Global Warming Potential (GWP)
• Contributes to greenhouse gas emissions

2. R1234yf (Tetrafluoropropene)

R1234yf is the latest industry-standard refrigerant developed to reduce environmental impact while maintaining cooling efficiency.

Advantages:

• Lower GWP
• Complies with environmental regulations
• It helps reduce overall vehicle emissions

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than older refrigerants
• Requires specialised equipment and handling

3. R290 (Propane)

R290 is a natural refrigerant that has gained attention for its low environmental footprint.

Advantages:

• Highly efficient cooling capabilities
• Non-toxic
• Environmentally friendly with a near-zero GWP

Disadvantages:

• Highly flammable
• Requiring strict handling and installation protocols
• It is not as commonly used in automotive applications as other refrigerants

4. R12 (Dichlorodifluoromethane)

R12 was commonly used in vehicles before being banned due to its harmful effects on the ozone layer.

Advantages:

• Excellent cooling performance.
• It was widely available before its phase-out.

Disadvantages:

• High ozone depletion potential
• Banned in most countries

5. R32 (Difluoromethane)

R32 is an emerging refrigerant choice, mainly replacing R410A in home and vehicle air conditioning systems.

Advantages:

• Improved energy efficiency
• Reduced environmental impact

Disadvantages:

• Mildly flammable
• Requiring careful handling

Final Words

Knowing which gas is used in AC and its characteristics helps you choose the right unit. Since all refrigerants are not built the same, selecting the ones less harmful to the environment is essential. However, at the same time, keeping the cooling capacity of the refrigerant is also necessary. Now that you know the different types of AC gases, you can make an informed decision. Consulting the manufacturer about the specific AC model is advised to avoid confusion.

FAQs

Which gas is used chiefly in AC?

The most common gases used in air conditioners include R-32, R-22, R-410A, R-290, and R-134a.

Which gas is released from AC?

Air conditioners release hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), or low-carbon A2L refrigerants. 

Which gas is used in 1.5-ton AC?

The type of gas used in a 1.5-ton AC depends on the model and manufacturer. Common refrigerants include R-32, R-410A, and R-22.

Which gas is used in the AC and fridge?

Air conditioners and refrigerators use different refrigerant gases. R-32 and R-410A are widely used in air conditioners, while refrigerators use R-134a or R-600a.

Which AC gas is safe?

AC gases like R-32 and R-290 are considered safe for the environment because they have lower global warming potential and do not deplete the ozone layer.

What is the cost of R22 per kg?

The price of R22 refrigerant gas per kilogram varies depending on the location and the quantity you purchase.