Description

A2L Ready condensing units for new-generation refrigerants

A2L Ready Condensing Units are designed and approved to operate with new-generation low-flammability refrigerants (class A2L according to ISO 817): R-32, R-452B, R-454B, R-454C and similar. These refrigerants have a Global Warming Potential (GWP) significantly lower than conventional HFCs such as R-404A or R-134a, making them the preferred alternative for complying with the phase-down schedule of the F-Gas Regulation (EU) 517/2014 and its ongoing revision.

Technical specifications

  • Compressor certified for low-flammability A2L refrigerants
  • A2L-compatible circuit components (valves, pressure switches, filters)
  • Electrical panel with specific protection for A2L installations
  • Housing and ventilation design according to EN 378 safety requirements for A2L
  • Compatible with R-32, R-452B, R-454B, R-454C and other A2L refrigerants depending on model
  • Low temperature (LT) and medium temperature (MT) versions
  • Reduced GWP: up to 75% lower than conventional R-404A

Advantages

✔ Ready for the new F-Gas regulations: no risk of regulatory obsolescence
✔ Lower long-term operating cost: A2L gas prices are more stable than those of HFCs being phased out
✔ Reduced GWP: lower carbon footprint for the installation
✔ A2L-approved components: safety certified by the manufacturer
✔ Suitable for new installations and for replacing R-404A equipment being phased out
✔ Wide range of capacities for cold rooms of any size

Applications

New refrigeration installations that must meet the GWP limits of current and future F-Gas regulations; replacement of R-404A units at the end of their service life; installations in sectors with environmental sustainability commitments; any application where the installer wants to ensure compatibility with the refrigerants of the future.

Standards and compliance

A2L refrigerants are regulated by the F-Gas Regulation (EU) 517/2014 and its revision. The safety of A2L systems is governed by EN 378 (and its Spanish equivalent UNE-EN 378), which sets specific ventilation, detection and charge limitation requirements for class A2L refrigerants. Installations must be carried out by certified refrigeration installers in accordance with the Spanish Refrigeration Installations Safety Regulation (RSIF).

FAQs

What does it mean for a refrigerant to be A2L?

Under the ISO 817 classification, A2L refrigerants have low toxicity (A) and are mildly flammable (2L). The “L” indicates that the flame propagation speed is very low (below 10 cm/s), which makes them safe for refrigeration use provided the maximum charges and ventilation conditions set out in EN 378 are respected. They should not be confused with flammable A2 or A3 refrigerants.

Do I need a special installation to use A2L refrigerants?

The installation must meet the EN 378 requirements for A2L, which include maximum charge limits per room, ventilation requirements and, in some cases, refrigerant detectors. The refrigeration installer must be certified to work with A2L. However, most standard commercial installations do not require significant additional work compared with a conventional HFC installation.

Can I replace my R-404A unit directly with an A2L Ready unit?

A simple “drop-in” of an A2L refrigerant into a unit designed for R-404A is not possible. Replacement requires changing the condensing unit for one approved for A2L, adjusting the expansion devices, checking the compatibility of circuit materials and reviewing the permitted refrigerant charges. Contact a certified refrigeration technician to plan the transition correctly.