Answer - Question 4
What can you tell me about air conditioning refrigerants?
Refrigerants are what make air conditioning possible. Contained within the coils of an air conditioning system, these agents make it possible to cool and dehumidify indoor air. Today, there are several types of refrigerants used in air conditioning systems. The most common is R22, which will be phased out over the coming years in response to international environmental concerns. Though the transition away from R22 is just beginning, Lennox is one step ahead with a full line of products that use a more responsible, chlorine-free refrigerant.
R22 - Current Standard
Acting in accordance with an international treaty called the Montreal Protocol, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated the eventual phase-out of R22 through the Clean Air Act. Starting in 2010, the manufacturing of heating and air conditioning equipment using R22 was prohibited, and by 2020 the production of R22 itself must cease.
The main reason for this regulatory action is that R22 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) compound, which contains ozone-depleting chlorine.
R410A - The Refrigerant of the Future
Lennox's new air conditioners now use the EPA-recognized chlorine-free R410A refrigerant. Because R410A contains no chlorine, it's ozone responsible. R410A is also better suited for use in higher-efficiency equipment because of its higher heat transfer rate as compared to R22. R410A allows Lennox, as a manufacturer, to design and make units that are more efficient than ever, like the XC21, the world's first 20+ SEER air conditioner. Choosing an air conditioner or heat pump with R410A not only makes sense environmentally - it may also reward you with energy cost savings.
Lennox - Leading the Way in Cooling Innovation
The introduction of cooling systems that use the latest in refrigerant technology reflects the ongoing commitment to developing innovative products that maintain a comfortable home environment, while helping to preserve the global environment.
As a result of this commitment, the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy have named Lennox as an Energy Star (R) Manufacturing Partner of the Year for three consecutive years. Lennox is the only heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) manufacturer ever to be chosen for this annual award.
