The world of commercial HVAC is undergoing a major transformation, and will greatly be effecting the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry. New regulations governing the use of refrigerants are rapidly phasing out the gases that power many of today’s cooling systems, and this shift has significant implications for your budget, maintenance plans, and equipment purchases.
Here is what you need to know about the transition and how MEP engineering will play a vital role.
THE CORE CHANGE: PHASING DOWN HFC’s
The driving force behind these changes is the AIM Act (American Innovation and Manufacturing Act), which mandates the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)—the refrigerants with high Global Warming Potential (GWP). The most common HFC in commercial HVAC systems, R-410A.
The goal is to transition the industry to a new generation of refrigerants (like R-32 or R-454B) that have a much lower GWP, making cooling systems more environmentally friendly. The phase-down is happening in sharp, mandatory steps, reducing the overall production and import quota of HFCs across the country.
THE IMMEDIATE IMPACT ON YOUR EQUIPMENT
While it’s important to understand that the use of existing R-410A equipment is not banned, the supply of R-410A refrigerant is being drastically cut.
1. New Equipment Purchases are Changing Now
Manufacturers have been quickly redesigning systems to accommodate the new, lower-GWP refrigerants. If you plan to replace a major unit, such as a rooftop unit, chiller, or VRF system, you will likely be installing equipment designed for a new refrigerant that is often mildly flammable (A2L classification).
2. Servicing Existing R-410A Systems Will Get More Expensive
- As the supply of R-410A shrinks due to the phase-down quotas, the cost of the refrigerant itself will climb.
- This means servicing and repairing your existing system, especially those with significant leaks, will become increasingly expensive.
WORKING WITH AN MEP FIRM AS AN ACTION PLAN
Before making a major replacement, it is important to consult with an MEP Engineering firm such as Emtec Consulting Engineers. Due to the new equipment being mildly flammable, MEP engineers need to ensure that the new refrigerants’ are safe and compliant with the entire building. An MEP engineering firm will be able to ensure that the new HVAC system is designed for a low-GWP refrigerant. MEP teams are responsible for redesigning systems to perform optimally with the new refrigerants.
The detection system must be programmed to automatically trigger mechanical ventilation to dilute the refrigerant concentration below its Lower Flammability Limit (LFL) in the event of a leak. This involves coordinating with the electrical engineer for power and controls.
An experienced MEP firm will also be incredibly useful for code and compliance. There will be new codes to adhere to which can be complex. By partnering with an experienced MEP firm like Emtec Consulting Engineers, you can navigate these changes smoothly, ensuring compliance, minimizing service costs, and making smart, forward-looking investments for your facility.