Ratified in 1987, the Montreal Protocol is a worldwide agreement to reduce the use of ozone-depleting substances, mainly chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs. These substances are produced and consumed in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems as both insulation and a refrigerant. In 2014, the U.S. government, along with Mexico and Canada, planned to lower CFC use by 85% over a period of 19 years, a worthy objective that’s continuously being implemented today.

HVAC companies, including our professionals at McLay Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, are committed not only to following government policies, but also ensuring a stronger, healthier environment for future generations.

Refrigerant Use

Today, we offer HVAC systems that exclusively use a new generation of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) with zero ozone depletion potential and low GWP (global warming potential). These systems include our residential and commercial direct-expansion air conditioning products, as well as our maintenance and repair facilities.

Types of Refrigerant

At McLay Plumbing, Heating and & Air Conditioning, we follow all policies regarding the eventual phase-out of harmful HFC products. This means that we use refrigerants that are considered safe for human use, with no effect on the environment.

• HFC-32 – This is the primary refrigerant used in heat pumps and air conditioning systems. Compared to current HFCs that have incredibly high GWP values (2,000 to 4,000), HFC-32 only has a GWP of 667, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
• Hydrocarbons – With a GWP value of 3 or less, hydrocarbons are the safest refrigerant available for small-scale air conditioning units. These refrigerants include propane, isobutane and propylene.
• CO2 – Carbon dioxide is a naturally-occurring, non-toxic, non-flammable gas. As a refrigerant in its liquid state, it has a GWP of 1. Today, CO2 is used in both #products-32″>heat pumps and water heaters, but newer technologies may expand its use to more HVAC devices.

Protecting Our Environment For Future Generations

At McLay Plumbing, Heating and & Air Conditioning, we’re your trusted contractor for environmentally-friendly, HFC-free HVAC installation, repair and maintenance services. Give us a call at (909) 326-6106 or fill out our contact form to schedule a visit today.