Thomas Midgley Jr. invented the first non-flammable, non-toxic chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) gas in 1928, which became widely known as "Freon." Due to CFCs' contribution to upper atmospheric ozone depletion, they were eventually phased out and replaced by hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and later hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). These refrigerants are identified by numerical codes indicating their molecular composition, such as R-22 or R-12, which have historically been used as coolants in various applications, including automotive systems.
R-22 was initially the most widely used refrigerant for residential cooling. However, due to its ozone-depleting properties, regulatory agencies mandated its gradual phase-out, with production and import restrictions taking effect starting around 2015 depending on regional policies.
To address these environmental concerns, advanced alternatives like R-410A and R-32 were developed. These modern refrigerants prioritize energy efficiency, enhance system compatibility, and drastically reduce ozone depletion potential. R-32 was discovered by Daikin in Japan in 2012 and officially adopted for use in Daikin products in 2013.
In conclusion, R-32 is a more environmentally friendly refrigerant, boasting superior cooling capacity and lower environmental impact metrics compared to R-22 and R-410A. As shown in the comparison table below, selecting the right air conditioner involves adhering to government regulations aimed at minimizing ecological damage, making R-32 the preferred choice. R-32 is extensively utilized in modern Inverter AC technology. Explore Daikin’s Inverter technology products here.
