To move the nation toward achieving long-term sustainability targets, the Environmental Protection Agency has made significant regulatory changes around HFC refrigerants that will affect many technicians and professionals working with HVAC systems and the built environment more broadly. Significant phasedown levels are fast approaching, and the push to adapt code language and prepare for the upcoming changes is underway. The importance of acting soon is ever more evident, as EPA has recently proposed new rules to further restrict, or eliminate, the use of HFC refrigerants in certain markets. If enacted, these new rules would shorten the timeline for major impacts to the HVAC industry. A2L refrigerants are increasingly replacing HFCs in many applications due to their lower global warming potential. A2L refrigerants are the latest refrigerants recognized by the EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy as substitutes for ozone-depleting substances in residential and light commercial air conditioning and heat pump systems. As we approach 2024, this widely available and more environmentally friendly refrigerant will soon become more commonly used in these applications.
Early preparation for upcoming code changes around A2Ls is key to avoiding business interruptions and disruptions during this inevitable shift. The following are key considerations for industry professionals who will be especially affected by upcoming code changes in the 2024 I-codes, including contractors and technicians, as well as manufacturers and distributors.
Considerations for contractors and technicians
Comfort conditioning is a key area affected by these changes, as the 2021 and earlier versions of the building codes did not allow for A2L refrigerants to be used for human comfort purposes. However, changes have been made to the IBC, IFC and IMC to permit the use of A2L refrigerants for human comfort use, meaning the 2024 codes are consistent with the most updated ASHRAE standards. With these new changes, high probability direct systems for human comfort must use either Group A1 or A2L refrigerant.
As A2Ls become more widely adopted and increasingly used in applications such as comfort cooling, it is important for contractors and technicians working with HVAC systems to have proper equipment for A2L use. According to new I-codes, high probability equipment using Group A2L, A2, A3 or B1 refrigerant shall comply with UL 484, UL/CSA 60335-2-40, or UL/CSA 60335-2-89.
By adding this requirement, the code clarifies what safety standards should be used for equipment utilizing these refrigerants. This is consistent with the ASHRAE 15 Standard, Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems.
Since these refrigerants have flammable capabilities, there are conditions required to ensure safe use and handling. One consideration is pipes. The new ASTM A333-18 Standard, Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Steel Pipe for Low-Temperature Service and other Applications with required Notch Toughness, has been added to Table 1107.4, Refrigerant Pipe. Table 1107.4 is now consistent with ASHRAE 15. These pipes must also be identified with a “Risk of Fire” label.
Another change that contractors and technicians must be aware of includes the amount of refrigerant that can be used for human comfort purposes, which may affect installation plans. Contractors and technicians should consider preparing for these changes in advance. Preparation for professionals can include training on proper labeling, usage and storage practices, which should be considered to minimize potential risk and safety concerns with these flammable refrigerants.
Professionals can also ensure equipment and tools are compatible with A2L equipment. Updating equipment and tools in advance of these code changes can help to save costs as the market adapts and demand increases.
Considerations for manufacturers and distributors
Due to their flammability, A2Ls come with significant storage implications, which were not a consideration for previous refrigerants. Distributors should be prepared for changes to storage practices, including requirements for appropriate space and labeling measures, especially in spaces where these refrigerants are being stored in large quantities.
This includes guidelines for rooms housing equipment with high temperatures. Machinery rooms for Group A2L and B2L refrigerant must comply with elevated temperature, refrigerant detector and mechanical ventilation requirements consistent with ASHRAE 15. More specifically, rooms housing the A2L refrigerants cannot contain flame-producing equipment or equipment with continuously hot surfaces above 800 F.
Distributors should also consider evaluating storage practices to identify areas that may need adjustments ahead of the code changes. Updating these practices accordingly may help to reduce costs should more space be needed in the future and will ensure spaces are safe and ready to accommodate A2Ls as they become more widely used. Manufacturers should anticipate increased demand for air conditioning systems and equipment compatible with A2L refrigerants, as well as other necessities for appropriate installation and maintenance for contractors and technicians.
Should professionals wait until these codes are adopted to prepare for the changes, they may experience complications related to supply chain, increased demand, higher costs and even safety concerns when working with A2L refrigerants.
Preparing for these upcoming code changes early will save costs and ultimately smooth the transition to more widespread adoption and implementation of A2Ls for all parties affected.
Resources
For more information on preparing for A2L refrigerants, visit A2L Refrigerants Transition – ICC (iccsafe.org).
For technicians and contractors interested in A2L safety trainings and certifications, visit Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute | AHRI (ahrinet.org).
Jim Cika is PMG technical resources director at the International Code Council.
