VIABILITY OF HCFC-22 (R-22) REFRIGERANT
ISSUE:
Viability of HCFC-22 refrigerant, and its use on future projects
BACKGROUND:
Some VA Medical Centers are reluctant to specify HCFC-22 refrigerant on chiller
addition or replacement projects because of its phase-out in favor of other non-
CFC, ozone friendly refrigerants.
DISCUSSION:
VA Criteria "HVAC Design Manual for Hospital Projects" allows use of three
alternate refrigerates, HCFC-123, HFC-134a, and HCFC-22. EPA has
determined that each of these refrigerants is acceptable. Under the Clean Air Act,
HCFC-22 may continue to be produced for new equipment until 2010, for existing
equipment until 2020, and will be available for at least 5-10 years after phase-out
via reclamation and recovery. The total phase-out for HCFC-123 refrigerant is
2030, and there's no phase-out date set for HFC-134a refrigerant as yet.
It is impossible to forecast refrigerant prices, but one thing is clear, that the price of
HFC-134a refrigerant will likely remain higher than HCFC-123 and HCFC-22
refrigerants due to its two-step manufacturing process.
RECOMMENDATIONS/CONCLUSION:
1. Making the optimal selection of a new chiller is critical because it can be a 30-
year decision with important economic and environmental consequences.
Therefore, a reasonable question to ask is whether HCFC-22 refrigerant will be
available throughout the life of the chiller. The answer in our opinion is yes.
2. We recommend that HCFC-22 refrigerant be considered a viable option when
selecting a new chiller, along with HCFC-123 and HFC-134a, at least through the
end of the century.
3. Regardless of the refrigerant selected, follow ASHRAE Standard 15-94, and
provide refrigerant sensors, self-contained breathing apparatus, and mechanical
ventilation for chiller room personnel safety.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFOR MATION:
Contact Satish Sehgal at 202-565-5032 in the Standards Service (187C).
29 August 1996
FM-187C-DA58
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