R22 Refrigerant Legislation
New legislation brought in under The Kyoto Protocol is enforcing the removal and replacement of the low temperature refrigerant- R22 refrigeration system. These changes in legislation will affect any company that sustains the need for or has a requirement for R22 refrigeration.
Why are the R22 legislation changes being made?
R22 refrigerant has a detrimental effect on the ozone layer resulting in excessive UV levels. Due to this, the R22 refrigerants may contribute to further environmental damage. Watkins Hire like many affected companies have taken the opportunity to comply with the new regulations earlier than planned.
This is being demonstrated at two levels:
Firstly, the majority of R22 refrigeration units are at least one third of their way through their foreseeable life. As existing R22 refrigeration systems begin to require replacing, the majority of companies are choosing to phase these out rather than go to the expense of needlessly repairing or maintaining them.
Secondly, all new air conditioning systems will now use refrigerants such R407c and R410a which have zero or very little ozone depleting potential. These refrigerants are also proven to be more energy efficient than the R22 refrigerant and are therefore a wiser and more popular choice for the companies in question.
What are your companies alternatives to R22?
Most companies that are affected by the R22 legislation will have a policy to specify only the following environmentally friendly refrigerants are incorporated in new air conditioners, chiller equipment:, R404A and R407c. The chosen alternative is decided at business unit level and is usually dependant upon the business’ requirements towards energy efficiency.
When do the changes have to be completed by?
Although many companies have undergone, or are in the process of exchanging their R22 refrigerants, huge conversions still need to be undertaken to ensure that the 2010 deadline for replacement of equipment and the 2015 deadline for completely phasing out R22 refrigerants is accomplished.
R-22: THE IMPLICATIONS OF NEW LEGISLATION
If your air conditioning system is over six years old now is the time to check out this legislation. From 1 Jan 2010 it will be illegal to use virgin HCFCs such as R-22 when servicing and maintaining air conditioning equipment.
If your air conditioning system is over six years old now is the time to check out this legislation
From 1 Jan 2010 it will be illegal to use virgin hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) such as R-22 (which has been the most commonly used refrigerant) when servicing and maintaining air conditioning equipment.Until the 31 December 2014 temporary use of recycled/recovered R-22 is possible but availability could be limited and costs high. From 1 January 2015 sales or use of recycled/recovered R-22 will be prohibited.
The regulation also calls for all operators of HCFC refrigeration systems to take “all precautionary measures practicable” to prevent and minimise leakage.It states that all fixed equipment systems with a refrigerant charge greater than 3kg will require an annual check for leakage. This must be undertaken by qualified personnel and they will be required to properly recover any HCFC refrigerant removed from a system.
All of Watkins Hire chillers and air conditioners utilse R407C , R410a & R134 during your R22 phase out or replacement we are the only Chiller rental company that complies 100% with the pending legislation.
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